Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

My latest NFL theory, explained Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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After a bad start to the season, the young QBs had their best collective performance in Week 4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I bounced around in this episode, and it was one of the most fun episodes I've recorded. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

USC's Drake London feels "different" than other big WR prospects, and I run through the thoughts I had after watching every game in the NFL last weekend Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I watched all the drop backs for first and second year QBs in Week 1. Let's discussed how they played and assign a grade for their efforts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FOOTBALL IS BACK, YA'LL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The NFL cutdown day came and went, and what the hell were some of these teams thinking? In all seriousness, surprising cuts are an annual tradition in the NFL, and this episode wasn't initially meant to bash teams for releasing promising young players, but that's kind of what it turned into. Example: Why are the Texans cutting rookie UDFA offensive linemen who looked promising in the preseason?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Doubling up on NFL and NFL Draft in this episode with thoughts on first-round rookies through two preseason and a second segment running through the NFL comparison, strengths, and weaknesses for the top of the 2022 wide receiver draft class heading into the college football season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Week 1 of the NFL Preseason was... fire? Yes, it was. Who knew we'd all missed the preseason that much? Really though, there was loads of anticipation for a bunch of rookie passers, which made it fun. What is more American than overreacting to exhibition football games? Not much. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode runs through the top candidates to be the next rise-from-obscurity QB prospect to ultimately land really high -- like Top 3 overall -- in the 2022 NFL Draft. Yes, they may seem like reaches now. But, remember, no one had Zach Wilson or Joe Burrow -- or Kyler Murray or Baker Mayfield before them -- as high first-round picks before their final collegiate seasons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is rife with my thoughts on the training camp buzz for rookies and young NFL you should buy or not buy, why my Jacob Eason article couldn't have had worse timing, and the next wave of first-round picks from Alabama. Subscribe/rate/review... and follow me on TikTok! I swear it's not an account full of dancing videos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Madden 22 has started to roll out its player ratings, which means it's time to discuss the ratings they got wrong and the biggest snubs from their top 10 lists at each position. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let's draft a fantasy team of alumni from the same school then rank the squads. This was a blast -- and much more challenging that I initially expected it would be. Also, a few surprising programs that made my Top 8 list. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every year a litany of non-Round 1 picks become key members of their NFL teams...as rookies. This episodes evaluates the non-Round 1 rookie on each NFC team who will be that important first-year piece. Remember to subscribe/rate/review! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I know, I know... late-round picks hardly hit. But most teams understand running back value and are more open to giving late-round picks (and undrafted free agents) chances to carry the football. Let's run through the sixth and seventh round picks at the running back spot who have the talent and, maybe just as importantly, the team opportunity to have productive rookie seasons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I recently ranked all five quarterbacks picked in the first round of the 2021 by team situation, using these four categories as barometers -- skill-position group, offensive line, play caller, and defense. And Trey Lance of the 49ers swept every category -- first place in them all. In this episode, I explain each quarterback's situation ranking before diving into a paramount question -- does Trey Lance have the best team situation of any first-round quarterback ever? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quarterback is the most valuable position in the NFL, and the price for them is going to the moon. But other positions -- like WR and OL -- are increasing in value too. This episode is dedicated to a new theory of mind centered around building your team completely differently than how teams are building them today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I've completed my Next Step series at CBS Sports, a comprehensive examination of all second, third, and fourth-year starting quarterbacks. This episode dives deeper on each passer and provides a prediction of how I believe they'll be viewed at the end of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Julio Jones has been now been part of two huge trades in his NFL career and it got me thinking -- what is smarter for short-term and long-term success of a franchise -- trading away or trading for a superstar player? We've seen more big-time trades in the NFL over the past few years than we saw in the past, and I explain why my thoughts have evolved on this important element of the team-building process heading into the 2021 season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The final installment in my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series is on the NFC South.  Some topics discussed include: Could the Falcons have traded back and still gotten Kyle Pitts? Atlanta rebuilding while trying to stay competitive Good or bad, Carolina's class is instant impact Chuba Hubbard as the immediate RB2 to Christian McCaffrey The Saints crushed their first two picks... ...Then went completely off the map in Round 4 The Buccaneers adding depth at positions that needed it Tampa picking another receiver! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The seventh installment in my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series is on the AFC South.  Some topics discussed include: The Colts ignoring OT until Round 7...dumb or smart?  Did Indianapolis do enough to help Carson Wentz?  The rollercoaster ride that was the Jaguars first draft in the Urban Meyer era  Andre Cisco in Round 3. My dude!  The Titans go defensive-heavy, and I especially loved what they did in Round 4  Houston might be the worst team in the NFL this season, but they had a decent albeit small draft Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The sixth installment in my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series is on the NFC West.  Some topics discussed include: The 49ers picked Trey Lance! Great job! What the hell was San Francisco doing after that? The Cardinals picked another oversized, versatile linebacker in Round 1? Let's hope Kliff Kingsbury understands how to utilize Rondale Moore The Rams started hot in the 2021 draft, then cooled off down the stretch Why Bobby Brown III is going to be a star The awesome three-pick class for Seattle How their three picks were all quintessential Seahawks selections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The fifth installment in my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series is the AFC West.  Some topics discussed include: The Chiefs smart, Patrick Mahomes-based drafting Why Cornell Powell adds a new element Mahomes has never really had before Did Denver make the wrong choice at No. 9 overall? Broncos building for a breakout season for Drew Lock Let's flip the Raiders first two picks, and why I warmed to the Alex Leatherwood pick Malcolm Koonce's elite attribute Why Asante Samuel is the most NFL-ready CB in this class Brenden Jaimes the steal of draft for the Chargers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The fourth installment in my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series is the AFC North.  Some topics discussed include: The Bengals and Browns picking intriguing developmental OTs in Round 4 Why Ja'Marr Chase over Penei Sewell was the right choice for Cincinnati Cleveland getting the best defensive player in the draft in Round 2 The Steelers patience paying off at critical positions Baltimore picking a blocker who fits their "profile" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The third installment in my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series is the NFC North.  Some topics discussed include: Was CB the right way for the Packers to go in Round 1? Why Amari Rodgers is going to EAT in Green Bay.  Amazing draft navigation by the Vikings Chazz Surratt's unique role in Minnesota Detroit's head-scratching draft philosophy Why the Bears had my favorite draft class... of all 32 teams Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The second installment in my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series is the AFC East.  Some topics discussed include: Why I didn't like Buffalo's pick of Gregory Rousseau in Round 1 How the Bills immediately made up for it A deep dive on why I genuinely see Jaylen Waddle as Tyreek Hill 2.0 Why I didn't like Day 2 and Day 3 for Miami The Patriots uninspiring draft that did feature two classic Belichick types Shrewd decisions for the Jets to protect Wilson, including a very expensive trade up that probably wasn't necessary Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I kick off my 2021 NFL Draft Grade series with the NFC East.  Some topics dicussed include: Should the Cowboys have picked Micah Parsons in Round 1? A bold prediction about the Jabril Cox pick Extreme skepticism about the Nahshon Wright selection Dave Gettleman with a smart draft? Wut.  Azeez Ojulari's fall  The Day 3 draft crush of mine the Washington Football team picked Dax Milne as the penultimate pick! Why Landon Dickerson was picked too high, but Milton Williams was picked at great value despite what Tom Donahoe thinks  A plan for JaCoby Stevens in Philly  Subscribe! Rate! Review!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

HAPPY DRAFT DAY!  After a brief discussion on the Teddy Bridgewater trade, I run through positions and prospects that would be sensible for all 32 picks in Round 1.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens at No. 3 overall will, of course, have a seismic ripple effect on the rest of the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In this episode, I explain what I think happened at 49ers headquarters when they decided to trade up to the third pick, and why the team's supposed Mac Jones adoration is actually sensible.  I also a general prediction for Jones if he indeed lands in San Francisco.  The episode concludes wtih my scratching my head over the Julio Jones trade chatter.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WOOOOOO --- another trade right in the thick of NFL Draft season, this colossal one between two of the top teams in the AFC In this episode, I discuss:  Why the Chiefs are clearly the winners  Why, despite being losers here, the Ravens decision was sensible  What positions/prospects Baltimore will target with their two first-round picks TRADEZ!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Top 5 positional ranking series concludes with a three-part episode on the marquee offensive positions -- quarterback, running back, and receiver.  I started with receiver, then moved to running back, and (teaser alert) finished with the No. 1 prospect on my board, Trevor Lawrence (shocker!).  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before I get to the offensive tackles and tight ends in my positional ranking series, I spoke to the reasons draft position is so vital when it comes to chances of a prospect have NFL success.  Teaser alert - I view the offensive tackles class as really good but don't have some of the top prospects at that position in the consensus order Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The positional ranking series rolls along with a trip to the trenches. This episode is dedicated to the Hog Mollies at defensive tackle and guard/center.   Teaser alert -- I only have one DT or IOL graded as a first-round pick... but a fair amount of them graded in Round 2 or Round 3. Two of the weaker positions in this class.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Continuing my obligatory position rankings series, as we're under three weeks until the 2021 NFL Draft, let's talk linebackers and edge rushers. Teaser alert -- the more I watched the linebacker class, the more I liked it, and a late watch for me landed inside my top 5.  Also, my EDGE1 is not Michigan's Kwity Paye. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2021 NFL Draft just three weeks away, it's time to kick off position rankings, and I'm starting with the defensive backfield.  Teaser alert -- I have the cornerback and safety groups graded/ranked much differently than the consensus. 1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As I'm finishing scouting the class of 2021 NFL Draft prospects, now's a good time to reflect on how I tweaked my grading system at each position as well as talk about a few misconceptions still prevalent when it comes to evaluating college players as they enter the league.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We had a rather big trade in the NFL, therefore an emergency episode of The Prospect Podcast was immediately in order.  I have pretty strong opinions about the Sam Darnold trade for the Jets and the Panthers, and I discuss how this swap three weeks out from the draft impacts the rest of the top 10.  (Hint: The Broncos are likely very happy today).  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why not start draft month with a live mock draft where I'm the GM for all 32 teams -- well the 29 picking in Round 1 that is? I tried a mix of what I would do and what I think will happen, and only had a few very difficult decisions. I also changed my mind once before calling the pick into Roger Goodell.  Remember to rate/review/subscribe!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Doesn't get anymore straight-forward than this -- I dedicated this episode to one severely under-the-radar prospect at each position you absolutely need to write down in Notes on your phone to remember for Saturday on draft weekend.  They will outplay their draft position, and some might not even get drafted at all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

WOOOOOO --- there is nothing quite like NFL trades during draft season, and we got two on Friday afternoon, so an emergency episode was immediately in order.  In this episode, I discuss:  The QB fits for the 49ers at No. 3 overall Why Miami's second trade was incredibly important for their future What the Eagles should/will likely do at No. 12 overall  Plus, I'll pinpoint the handful of prospect each team could be picking at their new draft position. TRADEZ!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

So we said we weren't going to care  about pro day workouts this draft season... but here we are, caring about pro day workouts.  While we're about halfway through the workout circuit, a handful of individual performances have really stood out -- and they don't seem too exaggerated or exaggerated at all!  In this episode we discuss:  South Carolina CB Jaycee Horn Texas EDGE Joseph Ossai  Georgia CB Eric Stokes Northwestern CB Greg Newsome Louisiana Tech DL Milton Williams     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If your team isn't going to be able to draft Justin Fields, or Penei Sewell, or Kwity Paye... fear not. There are quality Day 2 and Day 3 options -- for this episode let's call them "Plan B" and "Plan C" options. These prospects aren't as good as the marquee talents but are similar stylistically and will almost assuredly be on the clock when your team goes on the clock later in the draft.  Chris runs through Plan B and Plan C options for one of the marquee talents at every position in this draft class.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Part of the QB Conversation series, Chris talsk everything Trevor Lawrence of Clemson, the future No. 1 overall pick. But because Lawrence is the clear-cut No. 1 overall prospect in this class, instead of just heaping praise on the youthful QB, Chris goes a different route with this episode and discuss what developments would have to occur for things to go wrong for this universally liked QB prospect (presumably) with the Jaguars.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is an episode I've wanted to record for a while -- it's all about how are natural biases cloud thinking and lead to inauthentic evaluations of NFL Draft prospect.  I discuss how I became aware of these biases impacting the scouting process through stories of prospects over the past decade and the ways I try to combat the biases in hopes of providing the most genuine evaluations possible for each draft class.  Put on your philosophy nerd glasses for this one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network held a draft conference call earlier this week, and the transcript is available.  This episode is pretty straight-forward, and you can probably tell where it's going -- Chris reads all the questions Jeremiah got during the call and provides his own answers.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Part of the QB Conversation series, Chris and Matt talk everything Zach Wilson of BYU, the rising star in this year's QB draft class.  But because both guys have been on the record stating how much they like Wilson, instead of just going back and forth with immense praise for the youthful QB, they go a different route with this episode and discuss what developments would have to occur for things to go wrong for this universally liked QB prospect (presumably) with the Jets.  As per usual, Chris reads his scouting report, and the episode concludes with some NFL comparisons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Part of the QB Conversation series, Chris and Matt talk everything Justin Fields of Ohio State, a super-talented, highly productive QB who's seen his draft stock sink after a stellar showing in the College Football Playoff.  How do they view him as a prospect? Each analyst gives teams they would like Fields to be picked by and a team that wouldn't be very sensible. Chris also reads his scouting report of Fields straight from his scouting notebook. Matt has a bunch of throwback comparisons, and Chris' is an active superstar QB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris released his Top 50 Big Board 1.0 on Monday at CBSSports.com, so it's only fitting to talk about it at length, with Matt asking the questions.  Among the topics discussed:  Jaylen Waddle ahead of Ja'Marr Chase Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah inside the Top 10 and how he's different from Micah Parsons Penei Sewell at No. 8... too low? Christian Darrisaw as one of the most underrated prospects in the entire draft class Teven Jenkins ahead of Rashawn Slater Azeez Ojulari as the No. 1 EDGE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Part of the QB Conversation mini series, Chris and Matt talk everything Trey Lance of North Dakota State, the most boom-or-bust quarterback prospect in the 2021 class because of his limited experience, rawness, and elite level arm and athleticism.  How do they view him as a prospect? Each analyst gives teams they would like Lance to be picked by and a team that wouldn't be very sensible. Chris also reads his scouting report of Lance straight from his scouting notebook and the two give a throwback comparison for the North Dakota State prospect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the start of the QB Conversation mini series, Chris and Matt talk everything Mac Jones of Alabama, probably the most fascinating QB in the 2021 class because of the wide range of opinion on him.  How do they view him as a prospect? What is his draft range? Each analyst gives teams they would like Jones to be picked by and a team that wouldn't be very sensible. Chris also reads his scouting report of Jones straight from his scouting notebook.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This one is pretty straight forward -- Chris dedicates an episode to providing mini scouting reports on the top opt-out prospects in the 2021 class. It's a very good group that's much more than just Micah Parsons, Ja'Marr Chase, and Penei Sewell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris and Matt discuss the fun hypothetical of an NFL redraft, a selection process in which teams would have the opportunity to redo selections from the 2020 NFL Draft. This is directly tied to Chris' redraft he wrote late last week at CBSSports.com.  Among the topics discussed:  Justin Herbert over Joe Burrow at No. 1 overall? Should the Washington Football Team pick Chase Young again? How far would/should Tua Tagovailoa fall? How would the wide receiver class stack up?  Cameron Dantzler in Round 1? Should teams value one year of film that much more than a full collegiate evaluation? When should we "give up" on young players at the pro level? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every once in a while it's a good practice to  dissect a mock draft from one of the biggest NFL Draft insiders. Today, Chris and Matt comprehensively examine Mock Draft 2.0 from ESPN's Todd McShay and take separate approaches.  Matt talks on the five most fascinating teams from the mock and Chris gives his thoughts on the five most compelling prospects.  This is a fun one.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the start of every draft season, it's important to take a step back and examine the trends from the season that was in the NFL, themes that teams should and likely will be thinking about when they make their draft selections in April.  In this episode, Chris and Matt discuss the largest, widespread trends they noticed during from the regular season and playoffs and those they believe teams will apply to the team-building process in the 2021 NFL draft.  Topics include (in chronological order):  Sooooo pass rush is pretty damn important, right? Are we going to start to see more three-safety looks?  Overflowing the roster with offensive skill-position talent is paramount The importance the draft itself cannot be overstated What the Clyde Edwards-Helaire selection showed us Picking a linebacker in Round 1? Yay or nay?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brady vs. Mahomes is rightfully the storyline for Super Bowl 55. But I am here to pay respects to the plethora of young talent on the field in Tampa.  In this episode, Chris looks back on his evaluations of marquee young pros in the Super Bowl, like Tristan Wirfs, Carlton Davis, L'Jarius Sneed and others, and decides if those evaluations were right or wrong and speaks to whether not the highlighted players have improved since their days as prospects.      Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2021 Senior Bowl in the books, Chris and Matt discuss their biggest takeaways from the week that was in Mobile Alabama and discuss the impact this event will have on a pre-draft process without workouts at the combine.  Prospects discussed include:  Clemson WR Amari Rodgers UCLA DL Osa Odighizuwa Washington CB Keith Taylor  North Dakota State OT Dillon Radunz Tulane DL Cam Sample Pittsburgh EDGE Patrick Jones Washington DL Levi Onwuzurike Texas A&M QB Kellen Mond  The podcast concludes with a talk on Alabama Mac Jones, who by all accounts, had a fantastic week at the Senior Bowl. Should his performance in practice have that much of an impact on his stock, and is Jones a glaring example of a market inefficiency in this draft class.  Subscribe/rate/review -- we love to get your feedback! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ESPN's Adam Schefter tweeted a hypothetical on Friday morning -- Deshaun Watson to the Texans for the No. 1 overall pick.  Terrible, right? That's what I initially though too. But, the more I thought about it, the more I liked it. Eventually I landed on a slightly different deal but realized I absolutely love the Watson-to-the-Jaguars scenario for both Jacksonville and the Texans.  This emergency episode of The Prospect Podcast explains why it's perfect for the Jaguars, the Texans, and Watson, holder of that all-powerful no-trade clause.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2021 Senior Bowl underway in Mobile, Alabama, draft season is officially here. And while there's a bunch of small-school prospects in attendance who, of course, are interesting because we don't know much about them yet, Chris and Matt discuss five other Senior Bowl participants who are interesting for a variety of other reasons.  Georgia QB Jamie Newman -- best value QB in the 2021 class? Syracuse CB Ifeatu Melifonwu -- a rare tall CB who can stick with quick WRs? Oregon CB Thomas Graham - ultra-productive opt-out flying under the radar Florida State EDGE Janarius Robinson -- long, freaky athlete with undeveloped pass-rushing moves UCLA RB/WR Demetric Felton -- hybrid prospect who will help usher in a new era at the RB position Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ESPN's Adam Schefter tweeted there's bound to be an "unprecedented amount of QB movement" this offseason, and himself set an over/under of 18 teams that would be changing their quarterback for the 2021 season...and that tweet included he'd take the over.  Bananas.  So Matt and Chris pose the question for a plethora of teams -- should they get their new quarterback via the draft or in the free agent/trade market?  And specific options at the position are discussed at length Clubs featured include: Jacksonville Jaguars New York Jets Houston Texans Atlanta Falcons Philadelphia Eagles Detroit Lions Carolina Panthers Denver Broncos San Francisco 49ers New England Patriots Las Vegas Raiders Miami Dolphins Washington Football Team Chicago Bears Indianapolis Colts Pittsburgh Steelers New Orleans Saints It wouldn't be crazy if any of those teams began the 2021 campaign with a different quarterback from the one who started in 2020. Maybe that Adam Schefter guy was onto something.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Part 2 of the first mock draft in Prospect Podcast history runs through every selection made from pick No. 9 through the final selection in Round 1 of the 2021 NFL Draft.  But this mock is different from others -- it's assuming Deshaun Watson is traded to the Dolphins. In Part 1, the Texans still picked QB Zach Wilson despite getting Tua Tagovailoa in the trade (fun QB competition!) but what will Houston do with the No. 18 overall selection from Miami? There's an abundance of holes on that roster.  Matt and Chris stop to discuss why Kyle Pitts would be a logical choice for Year 3 of The Daniel Jones experiment with the Giants and also detail why a LB might actually make sense for the Vikings at No. 14 overall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How would a 2021 first round unfold if Deshaun Watson gets traded to the Dolphins? Chris and Matt thoroughly discuss the first eight picks in the Top 10, which includes the Texans getting back the No. 3 overall pick from  the Dolphins along with Tua Tagovailoa in the Watson deal. Should Houston still pick a quarterback with that early selection? Part 2 drops Thursday, with picks No. 9 - No. 32. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the first ever emergency episode of The Prospect Podcast, Chris details why the Texans have to act fast and trade Deshaun Watson.  If they don't, as an organization, they'll regret it.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris explains every detail of the comprehensive grading system he uses to rank prospects at each position every and stack his Big Board every draft season.  The system is a constantly evolving project that has been tweaked over the years and will continue to be altered as the college and NFL games change.  This is one you're going to want to bookmark.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is dedicated to the immense talent on the field in Alabama's destruction of Ohio State in the national title game. Conversation begins with Matt's thoughts on Devonta Smith's ridiculous first-half performance (1:55) and Chris follows with a remarkable feat Smith seemingly pulled off this season. Is he the new consensus WR1? After that, Chris has effusive praise for Najee Harris -- like he has all season (10:56) and puts him in lofty territory with other top RBs he's scouted in the past. But it wasn't an Alabama-only episode, as Matt provided in-depth thoughts on what he took from Justin Fields in these College Football Playoffs (19:05), and Chris circles back to his Deshaun Watson comparison.  There's talk on how impressive defensive tackle Christian Barmore was down the stretch (30:24), and why you can lock him into Round 1, before Chris and Matt discussed Alex Leatherwood and Deonte Brown (39:06). Make sure you listen for Matt's throwback comparison for the guard prospect. The podcast concludes with viewpoints on Mac Jones as a prospect (48:25) that aren't as amazing as his statistics this season (48:25) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What are the strong, deep positions in the 2021 NFL Draft? We're all starting to realize how good the QB crop is. And the WR class is loaded again -- that's become an annual event. But don't sleep on the OT or EDGE classes, groups with multiple first-round talents and an large collection of quality prospects who'll land on Day 2 and early Day 3 and have the skills to be stellar pros. Chris and Matt dive into the OT spot first (3:38), and discuss what traits are important for each "type" of OT prospect. After that, conversation shifts to the underrated EDGE position, where there's really no "consensus" top guy but plenty who could land in the first round and become successful NFL players (25:33). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the first 18 picks now set in the 2021 NFL Draft, Chris and Matt run through the most fascinating storylines and possibilities for most of the teams that didn't make the playoffs, starting with what the Jets will do at No. 2 overall -- Justin Fields or Zach Wilson? (4:12).  Talk transitions to a detailed discussion on the Dolphins at No. 3 -- thanks to that Texans trade -- and there's an agreement on what Miami's plan should be with that pick as it pertains to Tua Tagovailoa's future (10:32). Other questions posed include: Falcons going QB at No. 4? (21:58), should the Bengals be completely locked in on Penei Sewell at No. 5 or would a trade down be smarter? (27:38), when will the WRs fly off the board? (37:55), how about Kyle Pitts' landing spot? (38:50).  The podcast concludes with a conversation on Justin Fields, his epic performance against Clemson, the perfect type of offense for him in the pros, and a few NFL comparisons for the Ohio State quarterback (47:12) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris and Matt dive deep on all the marquee receiver prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft class and list a few sleepers who need to be on your team's radar if it misses on Ja'Marr Chase, Devonta Smith, or Jaylen Waldde. Carson Wentz's shocking, precipitous fall is discussed (31:24) before talk moves to the 2020 corner class collectively turning in a very disappointing rookie season and what it means for the futures of those defensive backs (36:28). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nearing the end of his third year in the NFL, what should we think about Browns QB Baker Mayfield? And how should Cleveland handle the financial future of the former No. 1 overall pick? (1:05) Then, Chris explains his "Bubble Effect" theory about QB prospects, and uses Mayfield along with newly released Dwayne Haskins as a few of the examples (19:19). The podcast concludes with Matt and Chris giving their own picks for the position (beyond running back) they each believe has lost enough value that they would have a hard time picking a player at that spot in Round 1.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the relaunch of The Prospect Podcast, Chris Trapasso and regular guest Matthew Coller dive deep on the top 5 QBs prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft class -- and it features plenty of love for BYU signal caller Zach Wilson.  There's also a fun debate on Travis Etienne vs. Najee Harris and a discussion about Kyler Murray and whether or not he's met expectations in what many believed would be a breakout Year 2 for the Cardinals quarterback.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What was up with the Texans offensive line last night? Plus, a quick run-through of my ACC draft preview & a reintroduction to the Practice Squad Power Rankings. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our panel of 15 NFL experts at CBS Sports has made its predictions for the 2020 season. I share mine. And finish the podcast with some words on recent Patriots call-up J.J. Taylor. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wondering about that undrafted free agent who made your team’s roster? Wonder no more. I provide detailed evaluations of a bunch of UDFA’s who beat the odds to make 53-man rosters after an unprecedented summer. Also, some thoughts on the contract extensions for Deshaun Watson and Tre’Davious White. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s talk about Antonio Gibson’s raw but fascinating skill set, and why we can’t forget about Bryce Love in Washington. Also, Ryan Kelly deserves the legitimately monster deal he just got from the Colts & I discuss my bad Dare Ogunbowale take. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New Buccaneers RB Leonard Fournette is being looked at all wrong. I explain in this episode. Also, I discuss the finer details of Georgia QB opt-out Jamie Newman’s game and why I’m still high on him. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Saints trading Alvin Kamara this close to the season? No way. He’s very talented, but the system in New Orleans has helped him a lot. Also, this episode examines the financials in contract extensions for Bengals RB Joe Mixon and Lions OT Taylor Decker. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Derwin James is hurt again. Majorly enormously terrible bummer. Some thoughts on him, briefly touching on Leonard Fournette getting waived and scouting reports for Washington EDGE Joe Tryon and Memphis RB Kenny Gainwell. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thoughts on the Yannick Ngakoue trade, Ja’Marr Chase opting out of the 2020 CFB season + a deep dive on my top 5 TEs in the 2021 draft class. It’s a fun group with loads of potential. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Time for some scouting reports. Before they play this season, I watched UNC WRs Dyami Brown and Dazz Newsome and was thoroughly impressed. Plus, I circle back to thoughts on Pitt DT Jaylen Twyman, who opted out, and USC iOL Alijah Vera-Tucker who won’t get a chance to play for the Trojans in 2020. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is dedicated to everything that’s transpired in Kenosha, Wisconsin surrounding Jacob Blake being shot seven times by a police officer. It’s a watershed moment in American history. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Rams are primed to surprised in 2020, and Jared Goff has actually become underrated. Also, this episode features a dive into some young RBs and why I was initially underwhelmed by the 2021 WR class. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s dive into the specifics of Curtis Weaver’s injury that led to his release, discuss Trey Lance as a prospect and what the showcase game will mean for him, and hint at my ranking of the young offensive cores in the NFL, an article now up at CBSSports.com This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In watching film over the summer in preparation for my pre-season Big Board, I came away pleasantly surprised by the EDGE class in 2021. It’s a diverse group that’s much more than Gregory Rousseau. The ACC is loaded at the position. Let’s talk about the EDGE prospects I gave a first-round grade. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Northwestern OT Rashawn Slater and Michigan CB Ambry Thomas declared for the ‘21 NFL Draft yesterday, so it’s time for evaluations of both. Also, this episode hints at my Bills 2020 bold predictions & gives a look at what’s coming next week at CBSSports.com This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breaking down two prospects who announced their intentions to enter the ‘21 NFL Draft class - USC DT Jay Tufele & Wake Forest WR Sage Surratt, plus my thoughts on a potential (imminent?) Yannick Ngakoue trade This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Prospect returns for the return of a football season that’ll look different than we’ve ever seen. I discuss some draft news before getting into young NFL player evals and talking about what’s next for me at CBSSports.com This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With my Top 250 Big Board now live at CBS Sports, let’s take an in-depth dive into my first round of prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From how I categorize and weigh evaluations at each spot on the field to the additions I give prospects based on positional value, this episode unveils my detailed NFL Draft grading system This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I answer mailbag questions in this episode about reliable tacklers, developmental EDGE prospects with high upside for the Vikings, and what the Bills could do to think long-term at key positions This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I provide the full evaluations for my favorite deep, Day 3 sleeper prospects in this draft class This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Starting coronavirus social distancing with a special free-agent episode, that provides my favorite / least-favorite signings during the first wave of free agency This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a quick plug for my recent seven-round mock, I open my scouting notebook and pinpointed my #DraftCrushes at each position This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

These three top prospects had underwhelming combines (for different reasons), which when factoring in their play styles, leads me to believe there should be lower expectations for them at the NFL level. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2020 NFL Combine starting today, I decided to give my own answers to all the questions NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah got in his combine conference call last week. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I recently wrote a long column for CBS Sports on what hitting and missing on prospects has taught me as an NFL Draft analyst. In this episode, I read that column. Think an audiobook but from a column. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With everyone getting into draft season mode after the Super Bowl, now’s the perfect time to explain my bell curve theory on quarterbacks and why it should change how we view evaluating prospects at that position every year This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the recently release of initial Big Boards and mock drafts from some plugged-in, veteran NFL Draft analysts came a few surprising names in the first round. In this episode, I discuss my thoughts on those players. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s talk about Javon Kinlaw’s dominance and then a handful of sleepers who had strong performances at Senior Bowl practice This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While not finalized of course, it’s time to run through my first Top 32 Big Board of draft season. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A phenomenon occurs every year at this time during the pre-draft process...we forget about non-Senior Bowl prospects. I discuss two of my favorites in this podcast. An explosive linebacker and a super-underrated running back. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I dive into what I’ve realized is a top-heavy and deep class of edge rushers, including (after Chase Young), A.J. Epenesa, Yetur Gross-Matos, Terrell Lewis, K’Lavon Chassion, and...Josh Uche. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There have been 16 first or second year QBs who’ve played in the NFL this season. This episode features a deep dive on my grades and season evaluations of them heading into Week 14. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The game of Utah’s Tyler Huntley, who’s significantly improved as a passer this year is discussed (0:44) before an in-depth look at rising hybrid defenders A.J. Epenesa of Iowa, and Florida State’s Hamsah Nasirildeen (5:30). Then a sleeper WR prospect from Illinois — yes, Illinois — with an awesome name is put in the spotlight (10:45) and Cowboys WR Michael Gallup and Packers LG Elgton Jenkins are praised for their play in 2019 (14:39). This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Performances better than the stats indicate from Tua Tagovailoa and Jamie Newman over the weekend are highlighted (00:28) before a discussion on Oregon’s feisty CB Thomas Graham. Then Minnesota WR Tyler Johnson is praises and it’s explained why Clemson’s Tee Higgins is underrated right now (9:56). An in-depth talk on my season grade for Lamar Jackson finishes the podcast (16:00). This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

LSU QB Joe Burrow has been awesome but has one flaw you need to monitor against Alabama this weekend (0:51). Rising defenders Troy Dye and Yetur Gross-Matos are discussed (4:03), as is Oregon State receiver Isaiah Hodgins (8:11), and the episode concludes by giving props to a pass-rushing nose tackle Vita Vea, and monstrous wideouts DK Metcalf and Courtland Sutton (10:27) This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a development no one saw coming, Oregon’s Justin Herbert has actually become an underrated, overshadowed QB prospect (0:28), and there are two RBs destined for Day 2 or Day 3 who look poised to outperform their draft position (6:40). Individual plays from top WR prospects are featured (9:41) and the episode finishes by highlighting Bengals’ second-year WR Auden Tate (14:45). This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode starts with a detailed look at future first-round QB Jacob season (1:15) and likely pre-draft riser Josh Jones from Houston. The dude looks like Tyron Smith on the field (4:27). After that...is Jerry Jeudy slipping. Chris thinks so (7:20). He finishes with evaluations of QBs from the famed 2018 class and how they’re becoming their pre-draft comparisons (12:18). This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris begins with why he believes the Rams are proving money is overrated in the NFL (00:22) then jumps to Joe Burrow’s hot start and explains why it might not vault him into QB2 status (6:08). He then talks about a trio of rising defensive prospects including one with NFL bloodlines (10:50), and finishes by hightlighting a stud rookie DL in the AFC with extreme length and versatility (18:22). This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Justin Herbert can just do things other QBs in this class can’t (0:10). Hyping the big Yetur Gross-Matos vs. Tristan Wirfs matchup (4:40), discussing the weird state of this WR class (8:48) and the Jaguars’ second-pro who’s been a pleasant surprise beyond Gardner Minshew (16:50) This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris gets philosophical with a major development in evaluating quarterback prospects (0:28), discusses a long, lean, and surprisingly powerful EDGE (8:20), goes deep sleeper at the WR spot (10:45), and wraps with Gardner Minshew praise (14:25) before talking about a pair of Year 2 RBs who deserve major love, one of which you wouldn’t expect. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris touches on Tua, Herbert, and the continued rise of Joe Burrow (segment 1) before explaining what’s changed with Florida State DT Marvin Wilson that has him squarely on the first-round radar (segment 2). He also zeroes in on the polished downfield skills of Oklahoma State WR Tylan Wallace (segment 3) and goes deep on the plethora of young QBs who’ve played early in this NFL season (segment 4). This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris discusses why Tua is going to be a difficult evaluation, Curtis Weaver & Kenny Willekes, the loaded WR group, impressive early performances from two prospects he wasn't as high on as the consensus, and the starting debut for Mason Rudolph This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Burrow was ridiculous against Texas, and his 471 yards weren't inflated by a ton of easy throws. Chris zeroes in on two other LSU Tigers, discusses the effortless speed of Henry Ruggs and Tylan Wallace, and two overlooked rookies who showed out in big Week 1 road wins. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the debut episode of The Prospect, Chris Trapasso of CBSSports.com provides the weekly structure for his every Monday podcast. Featured today is a quick discussion on Justin Herbert vs. Auburn and Tua Tagovailoa vs. Duke along with NFL comparisons for top WR prospects. This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices