The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

Monday Mailbag: Rule change proposals, 'can't-miss prospects' that miss, the shifting dynamics of fandom, and more

<p>With free agency fully in the rear-view mirror, we're back to our normal schedule on TAFS. And that means we're back to opening up the mailbag on Mondays! Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into questions about the recent rule change proposals, why it's hard to find difference-making off-ball linebackers, supposed can't-miss prospects who end up missing, building through the draft vs. making big swings, and a whole lot more.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Biggest remaining team needs after the first wave of free agency

<p>Plenty of team needs were addressed when the free agency period opened, but not every team can fill every hole by signing players off the market. So what are the biggest needs that remain as we put the first wave of free agency behind us and turn our attention to the draft? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into that question—considering Patriots left tackle, Chargers wide receiver, Bengals defensive line, and more—on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How the moves made in free agency this year affected the draft, with Dane Brugler

<p>The effects of free agency are felt long before teams take the field in September. Hopes are up in certain fanbases. Not so much in others. Teams are making plans that they couldn't consider a few weeks ago because of this player or that one. And, of course, teams can now plunge headlong into the draft knowing exactly what their needs are. So how did free agency affect the draft? Dane Brugler joins Robert Mays to dive into that question on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dane on X: @dpbrugler</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How much better are these NFC teams really?

<p>Teams like the Vikings, Giants and Seahawks have been active in free agency. There's no doubt about that. But how much better are they really? That's exactly the question Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen strive to answer on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p>The guys also discuss the extensions for Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Derek Stingley.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>Bengals lock up Chase and Higgins</li><li>Derek Stingley signs an extension with the Texans</li><li>Vikings</li><li>Seahawks</li><li>Giants</li><li>Panthers</li><li>Rams</li><li>Cardinals</li><li>Bears</li><li>Buccaneers</li><li>Packers</li><li>Saints</li><li>Commanders</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How much better are these AFC teams really?

<p>Teams like the Patriots, Colts and Jaguars have been active in free agency. There's no doubt about that. But how much better are they <em>really</em>? That's exactly the question Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen strive to answer on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>Patriots</li><li>Colts</li><li>Jaguars</li><li>Titans</li><li>Jets</li><li>Bills</li><li>Broncos</li><li>Chiefs</li><li>Dolphins</li><li>Raiders</li><li>Texans</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Free agency day three recap: So...you're freakin' out

<p>Free agency hasn't been fun for everyone. Just ask Cowboys fans, who have watched their team mostly sit out free agency again. Or Bengals fans, who have watched their team make a couple small moves on defense while seemingly antagonizing even further the trio of players on offense that makes them special in the first place. It's safe to say those fanbases are freakin' out, and they aren't the only ones. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen discuss the teams might have their fans a bit on edge on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>Rams release Cooper Kupp</li><li>So...you're freakin'out</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Bengals</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Steelers</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Seahawks</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Lions</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Ravens</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Chargers</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Cowboys</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Browns</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Falcons</li><li>The latest in free agency</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Free agency day two recap: Vikings spend big, Colts sign Daniel Jones, Giants ink Jevon Holland, and more

<p>The Vikings capped off day one of free agency with a couple of big moves, bringing back Byron Murphy Jr. and bringing in Jonathan Allen. They picked right back up on the morning of day two, signing Will Fries and reportedly agreeing to a deal with Javon Hargrave. They were the big spenders on day two of free agency, but they certainly weren't the only spenders. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dive into day two on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys discuss Dre Greenlaw to the Broncos, Daniel Jones to the Colts, Chase Young and Juwan Johnson sticking with the Saints, Najee Harris going to the Chargers, the seeming change that's afoot in San Francisco, and more.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>The Vikings spend big</li><li>Jevon Holland to the Giants</li><li>Tershawn Wharton to the Panthers</li><li>Dre Greenlaw to the Broncos</li><li>Daniel Jones to the Colts</li><li>Kristian Fulton to the Chiefs</li><li>Najee Harris to the Chargers</li><li>Texans/Eagles trade</li><li>Leonard Floyd to the Falcons</li><li>Changing of the times in San Francisco</li><li>Small moves from day two</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Free agency day one recap: Seattle makes over its team, Rams sign Davante Adams, Washington trades for Laremy Tunsil, and more

<p>Geno Smith? Traded! DK Metcalf? Traded! Sam Darnold? Signed! The Seahawks entirely made over their team by the end of day one of free agency, and they weren't alone in completely recalibrating their outlook for 2025. From Davante Adams to the Rams, to Laremy Tunsil to the Commanders, to a defensive spending spree in New England, this offseason's free agency window got off to a roaring start. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen recap it all on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>The Seahawks remake their team</li><li>Laremy Tunsil to the Commanders</li><li>Rams sign Davante Adams</li><li>The Pats go on a spending spree</li><li>A couple of left tackles cash in</li><li>Effects on the draft</li><li>Justin Fields to the Jets</li><li>What all the linebackers staying put could mean</li><li>Favorite fits from Monday's moves</li><li>Surprise signings from Monday</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Khalil Mack staying put? Trey Hendrickson to the Packers? It's the defense edition of the TAFS free agency preview

<p>Khalil Mack, Jevon Holland and Josh Sweat headline the available free agent defensive players. Add in a likely Trey Hendrickson trade and a potential Myles Garrett trade, and it could be a fun week for teams that need help on defense. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen preview free agency on the defensive side of the ball on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p>Then, The Athletic's Lions beat writer Colton Pouncy joins to discuss what it will take for them to get over the hump.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Joe Buscaglia</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Chris Godwin to the Jaguars? Sam Darnold to the Titans? It's the offense edition of the TAFS free agency preview

<p>Are you ready to tamper? The NFL sure is, with the legal tampering window on the horizon and the new league year beginning next week. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen preview free agency on the offensive side of the ball on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Who should make a play for Chris Godwin? Where's a logical landing spot for Sam Darnold? What veteran trades could realistically happen? The guys answer those questions, and a whole lot more.</p><p>Then, The Athletic's Bills beat writer Joe Buscaglia joins to discuss what it will take for them to get over the hump.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Joe Buscaglia</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Free agency mailbag: Bang for your buck in FA, the next great reclamation QB project, position changes with a new team, and more

<p>The first checkpoint of the offseason—the combine—is now in the rear view mirror. Next up is free agency. We kick off our free agency coverage in earnest by opening up the mailbag on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen tackle questions on reclamation projects at quarterback in this class, players making position changes after signing with a new team, where teams can find bang for their buck on the market, and more.</p><p>Then, The Athletic's Packers beat writer Matt Schneidman joins Robert to discuss what the Packers need to do to get over the hump.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Matt Schneidman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Combine recap with Dane Brugler

<p>Dane Brugler, The Athletic's NFL Draft expert, spent a long month in Indianapolis last week, and we are all the beneficiaries of his dedication. Dane sits down with Robert Mays on this episode of The Athletic Football Show to share his big takeaways from the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dane on X: @dpbrugler</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Behind the scenes at the combine with ESPN's Dan Graziano; What do the Ravens need to do to get over the hump?

<p>The combine may be a draft event, but behind the scenes it's as much about the players already in the league as it is anything else. So what discussions are going on in back rooms in Indianapolis about Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins, Sam Darnold, Tee Higgins, Trey Smith, and the other big names who could be on the move in the next month or so? Dan Graziano of ESPN joins Robert Mays to dig into all that on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p>Then, The Athletic's Ravens beat writer Jeff Zrebiec joins Robert to discuss what the Ravens need to do to get over the hump in 2025.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dan Graziano and Jeff Zrebiec</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The nine most interesting teams of the offseason, Volume 3: Bengals, Vikings and Patriots

<p>The third and final entry in the annual TAFS Most Interesting Teams of the Offseason series is here, and it's a doozy. We've got Paul Dehner on the Bengals, Alec Lewis on the Vikings and Chad Graff on the Patriots. Will Tee Higgins and/or Trey Hendrickson still be Bengals in 2025? What's the Vikings plan with Sam Darnold and the quarterback position? How will the Patriots use their immense resources this offseason? Robert Mays gets into all that with the beat writers, and a whole lot more.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Chad Graff, Paul Dehner, Alec Lewis</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Chad on Bluesky: @chadgraff.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Paul on Bluesky: @pauldehnerjr.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Alec on Bluesky: @aleclewis.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Chad on X: @ChadGraff</p><p>Follow Paul on X: @pauldehnerjr</p><p>Follow Alec on X: @alec_lewis</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The nine most interesting teams of the offseason, Volume 2: Commanders, 49ers and Browns

<p>The second entry in the annual TAFS Most Interesting Teams of the Offseason series features Zac Jackson on the Browns, Matt Barrows on the 49ers, and Ben Standig on the Commanders. How do the Commanders make sure that 2024 wasn't a flash in the pan? Is the window on this version of the 49ers still open? Are the Browns willing to commit to a rebuild? Robert Mays gets into all that with the beat writers, and a whole lot more.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Zac Jackson, Matt Barrows, Ben Standig</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Matt on Bluesky: @mattbarrows.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Ben on Bluesky: @benstandig.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Zac on X: @AkronJackson</p><p>Follow Matt on X: @mattbarrows</p><p>Follow Ben on X: @BenStandig</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The nine most interesting teams of the offseason, Volume 1: Rams, Chargers and Raiders

<p>Welcome back to The Athletic Football Show's favorite combine week tradition: mining our ridiculously knowledgable beat writers for all the insight they have on their teams. We handpicked nine teams we deemed the most interesting of this offseason after the Super Bowl, then scheduled time during combine week to talk with each of their beat writers. This is the first entry in that series, featuring Jourdan Rodrigue on the Rams; Daniel Popper on the Chargers; and Tashan Reed on the Raiders. When and how with the Matthew Stafford domino fall? What will the Chargers do with all their financial flexibility? What do the Raiders look like under the Pete Caroll/John Spytek (and Tom Brady) regime? Robert Mays gets into all that with the beat writers, and a whole lot more.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Jourdan Rodrigue, Daniel Popper, Tashan Reed</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Jourdan on Bluesky: @jourdanrodrigue.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Tashan on Bluesky: @tashanreed.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Jourdan on X: @JourdanRodrigue</p><p>Follow Daniel on X: @danielrpopper</p><p>Follow Tashan on X: @tashanreed</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Mailbag Monday: Successful GM/head coach dynamics, quarterback urgency in the draft, offensive line composition, and more

<p>It may be combine week, but we're still opening up the TAFS mailbag. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into questions about successful GM/head coach dynamics, how urgent teams should be in the draft when they need a quarterback, the Jets, Saints, and Vikings, offensive line composition, and more.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

What To Watch For During the 2025 NFL Combine

<p>Who's going to own the 2025 Scouting Combine? Which players are going to crush the testing? Which lesser-known prospects are going to turn heads? Who has the most at stake during the interviews? Draft expert Dane Brugler joined Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen to run through everything that really matters next week in Indianapolis.</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How Can Free Agency Help Teams Win the Super Bowl?

<p>For years, free agency lessons are typically framed about how teams falter in the market. But the 2024 Eagles were a shining example of how the right injection of free-agent talent can propel a team to a championship. With this year's champs in mind, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen looked through the past decade of Super Bowl participants to see what lessons we can learn about the right ways to use FA. How many teams spent big? How important were the right bargain signings? And what advice, if any, can we give to teams looking for the right boost from the veteran pool in 2025?</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Mailbag Monday: Second-tier QBs vs. elite coaches, Trevor Lawrence as Gen-Z Matthew Stafford, Bills/Ravens future, and more

<p>Would you rather have Matt LaFleur or Dak Prescott? Is Trevor Lawrence Gen-Z Matthew Stafford? Would you rather be the Bills or Ravens for the next three years? Those are just three questions that Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen answer in this edition of The Athletic Football Show mailbag.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>QB vs. coach value</li><li>The Chargers offseason</li><li>Converting contracts into signing bonuses</li><li>Is power football all the way back?</li><li>The Eagles as a blueprint</li><li>The most entertaining division in the league</li><li>Which QB has your real-life skill set?</li><li>WR vs. OL</li><li>Who should be trading for Myles Garrett?</li><li>Trevor Lawrence as Gen-Z Matthew Stafford</li><li>Are the Bills or Ravens in a better spot?</li><li>A documentary on...?</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Biggest questions of the 2025 offseason

<p>Where will the on-the-move quarterbacks get off the carousel? How will the Bengals address their defense? Will the Rams turn the page to a new era? Where will the big-name free agents land. Those are just four of the offseason questions Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen addressed on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Travis Hunter, Abdul Carter lead Dane Brugler's first Top 100 of 2025

<p>OK, enough with the 2024 season, it's time for 2025! Dane Brugler's post-Super Bowl Top 100 is out, and he joins Robert Mays on this episode of The Athletic Football Show to get us firmly pointed toward the combine and the draft.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dane on X: @dpbrugler</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Super Bowl LIX recap: Eagles cap off dramatic turnaround from last season with dominant win over Chiefs

<p>The return to bully ball was one of the stories of the 2024 season. So perhaps it's fitting that the story of the Super Bowl was that of the Eagles utterly dominating the trenches on both sides of the ball in their 40-22 triumph over the Chiefs. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen break down Super Bowl LIX on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Super Bowl LIX Preview

<p>The NFL season is a 285-game march to the Super Bowl. Friends, we have reached that 285th game. Super Bowl LIX between the Chiefs and Eagles is here, and Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dive deep on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. What are the key matchups? Who and what will the guys be watching on both sides of the ball? What does this mean for the legacies of the key players, coaches and executives involved. Robert and Derrik get into all that, and a whole lot more, on our Super Bowl LIX preview.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Super Bowl characters who have changed the way we think about them this season

<p>Consider what you thought about Saquon Barkley before this season. How about Trent McDuffie? How about Nick Sirianni? Might feel a bit different about them now, right? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen discussed nine people involved in Super Bowl LIX who have changed the way we think about them this season on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>Saquon Barkley</li><li>Nick Sirianni</li><li>Howie Roseman</li><li>Vic Fangio</li><li>Zack Baun</li><li>Trent McDuffie</li><li>Joe Thuney</li><li>Andy Reid</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Chiefs hunt for a three-peat meets the Eagles march for redemption

<p>Way back in September, it didn't necessarily feel like we were going to end up here. The Chiefs may have enjoyed their status as the NFL's latest—and perhaps greatest—dynasty, but it was clear the Bills and Ravens would push them in the AFC. The Eagles, meanwhile, began the season 2-2, and saw their coach getting in shouting matches with fans at their own stadium. And yet, here we are, getting ready for Chiefs-Eagles in the Super Bowl for the second time in three seasons. How did these teams make it here? What's at stake for them (beyond the obvious, of course)? Robert Mays sat down with Nate Taylor and Brooks Kubena, The Athletic's Chiefs and Eagles beat writers, respectively, to answer those questions on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Nate Taylor and Brooks Kubena</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Senior Bowl takeaways, coaching carousel roundup, and veteran quarterback intrigue with Dianna Russini

<p>Robert Mays and Dianna Russini kick off Super Bowl week with a crossover episode of The Athletic Football Show and Scoop City. The duo discusses Dianna's takeaways from the Senior Bowl, the behind-the-scenes elements of this year's head coach hiring cycle, the most interesting quarterbacks of the offseason, and more.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>Senior Bowl takeaways</li><li>Coaching carousel roundup</li><li>Brock Purdy/Niners negotiations</li><li>The Matthew Stafford domino</li><li>Sam Darnold's market</li><li>Could Russell Wilson and Pete Carroll reunite in Vegas?</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Dianna Russini</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The TAFS mailbag is back!

<p>It's been far too long since we heard from you, our dear listeners. And so we're happy to say that the TAFS inbox is open! Not just for this episode, either. We're going to be doing this all offseason long. In the return edition of the mailbag, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen discuss the point of fandom, the Bills best path to getting over the hump, if it's lame for neutral fans to root for the Chiefs in the Super Bowl, what they'd do this offseason if they were Sam Darnold, and a whole lot more.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>What can the Bills do to close the gap with the Chiefs in the playoffs?</li><li>What is it to be a sports fan?</li><li>Can Matt LaFleur get the Packers over the hump?</li><li>Is it lame to root for the Chiefs in the Super Bowl?</li><li>Assessing the staff around Ben Johnson in Chicago</li><li>What biases influence Robert and Derrik?</li><li>What would you do this offseason if you were Sam Darnold?</li><li>Could Matthew Stafford be on the move this offseason?</li><li>The role of elite tight ends in dynasties</li><li>Why hasn't Steve Spagnuolo's staff been picked over for DC jobs?</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Lessons learned from this season's final four teams (and the Lions)

<p>No team advances to its Conference Championship Game by accident. They get there through a combination of players, coaches, scheme and the way they were built. So what lessons can we learn from the Chiefs, Eagles, Bills and Commanders—and the Lions, let's be real—this season that we can apply to finding winners in future years? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and old friend Nate Tice dig into that question on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Nate Tice</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Nate on Bluesky: @natetice.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Nate on X: @Nate_Tice</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The wildest 48 hours on the 2025 NFL coaching carousel

<p>One of the signature NFL franchises announced its head coach on a Friday night at 10 pm, and that was the second craziest development of the weekend in the coach hiring cycle. So, yeah, it was a wild weekend on the coaching carousel. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen discuss Pete Carroll to the Raiders, Brian Schottenheimer's ascension in Dallas, Liam Coen's on-again/off-again/on-again partnership with the Jaguars and more on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><p><strong>Rundown</strong></p><ul><li>Pete Carroll to the Raiders</li><li>Brian Schottenheimer takes over in Dallas</li><li>Liam Coen goes to the Jaguars</li><li>The Saints are getting shut out</li><li>Coordinator moves, headlined by Bobby Slowik and Dennis Allen</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g">YouTube</a></p><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>