Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 1: Mel's Mock

Release Date: February 25, 2025
Hosts: Alan Hahn (ESPN New York, New Jersey), Peter Rosenberg (ESPN New York broadcaster)

Introduction to Mel's Mock and NFL Draft Insights

In this episode titled "Hour 1: Mel's Mock," hosts Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the intricacies of the NFL draft, with a particular focus on the New York Giants and Jets. The conversation is anchored around Mel Kuiper’s latest mock draft predictions ahead of the NFL Combine, exploring strategies, potential picks, and the broader implications for both franchises.

Mel Kuiper’s Mock Draft Analysis

Giants' Quarterback Conundrum

Mel Kuiper's mock draft suggests that the Giants may opt out of selecting a quarterback, deviating from traditional expectations. Instead, he projects the Giants might prioritize Travis Hunter, a Heisman Trophy winner known for his two-way talent.

• Alan Hahn [08:07]: "Mel Kuiper has them passing, not taking a quarterback with Cam Ward off the board. He has them going with Travis Hunter."

Peter Rosenberg challenges this prediction, questioning the Giants' reluctance to secure a quarterback given their pressing need.

• Peter Rosenberg [09:47]: "Don is a Giants fan. If they do this, I would suggest it means... they probably already got their guy at quarterback..."

Jets’ Strategic Approach to Quarterbacks

The discussion shifts to the Jets and their approach to the quarterback position. Mel Kuiper advises the Jets to "swing for every quarterback possible," indicating a proactive stance in securing a franchise quarterback either through the draft or free agency.

• Peter Rosenberg [08:06]: "The Giants would have the first opportunity to do that."

• Alan Hahn [12:46]: "Just keep swinging means that if I got a chance to get a franchise quarterback, I'm going to go get myself a franchise quarterback."

The hosts debate the merits of this strategy, weighing the potential of drafting a young quarterback versus acquiring a seasoned veteran to stabilize the team immediately.

Shador Sanders: The Pros and Cons

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Shador Sanders, a promising quarterback prospect. Alan Hahn expresses strong conviction in Sanders’ abilities, while Peter Rosenberg remains cautiously optimistic, highlighting both his leadership qualities and areas needing improvement.

• Alan Hahn [28:02]: "If Sanders is everything you're saying, I'm not saying he's not. I'm relying on your... he has the conviction."

• Peter Rosenberg [34:15]: "Shador plays that way. If you have two terrific running backs like the jets have and a great defense, the one thing you don't want your quarterback to do is make mistakes."

The hosts explore the implications of multiple teams passing on Sanders, interpreting it as potential red flags regarding his fit and the organizational strategies of those franchises.

• Alan Hahn [23:00]: "If the Giants don't want him, what are they supposed to do?"

• Peter Rosenberg [28:38]: "Is Sanders that much of a camp miss that they're willing to jump in like Washington?"

Draft Strategy and Team Dynamics

The conversation extends to broader draft strategies, including the importance of balancing young talent with experienced players. The hosts emphasize the need for the Jets to avoid past mistakes of starting rookies without adequate support, advocating for a veteran quarterback to mentor young prospects.

• Alan Hahn [43:12]: "I think the jets need to do two things. I think you need to get a future quarterback, but I also think you need to get some type of veteran quarterback that can actually go in there, teach them..."

• Peter Rosenberg [44:04]: "You cannot have that. Joe Douglas's biggest mistake was going into that season... with Zach Wilson and just no experienced backup whatsoever."

This segment underscores the delicate balance teams must maintain between fostering new talent and ensuring immediate competitive performance.

Listener Engagement: Mike from Long Island’s Perspective

Listener Mike from Long Island joins the conversation, echoing the hosts' concerns about the Jets' quarterback strategies. He emphasizes the necessity of integrating a veteran to guide rookies, preventing the pitfalls experienced in previous seasons.

• Alan Hahn [43:17]: "I've always thought that the one big mistake the jets always make... throw them into the deep end."

• Peter Rosenberg [44:05]: "Those are things you absolutely cannot have that."

Mike's insights reinforce the episode's central theme: the critical importance of strategic quarterback management in securing the Jets' future success.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Vision

As the episode concludes, Hahn and Rosenberg reflect on the Giants' and Jets' draft positions, considering the broader league landscape and the potential moves other teams might make.

• Alan Hahn [38:55]: "If they're passing on him [Sanders], the Raiders passing on him... wouldn't that make you nervous as a Jet fan?"

• Peter Rosenberg [39:36]: "He's [Shador] not a plug and play... he's made of stuff that could make him a franchise quarterback over time."

The discussion highlights the uncertainty and strategic depth involved in draft decisions, leaving listeners with a nuanced understanding of what to anticipate in the upcoming NFL draft.

Notable Quotes

• Alan Hahn [08:07]: "Mel Kuiper has them passing, not taking a quarterback with Cam Ward off the board. He has them going with Travis Hunter."

• Peter Rosenberg [34:15]: "Shador plays that way. If you have two terrific running backs like the jets have and a great defense, the one thing you don't want your quarterback to do is make mistakes."

• Alan Hahn [43:12]: "I think the jets need to do two things. I think you need to get a future quarterback, but I also think you need to get some type of veteran quarterback that can actually go in there, teach them..."

• Peter Rosenberg [44:05]: "Those are things you absolutely cannot have that."

Conclusion

In "Hour 1: Mel's Mock," Don, Hahn & Rosenberg provide an in-depth analysis of the upcoming NFL draft, focusing on the strategic decisions facing the New York Giants and Jets. Through thoughtful discussion and expert insights, the hosts navigate the complexities of quarterback selection, team dynamics, and the broader implications for both franchises' futures. Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the potential moves and strategies that could shape the New York NFL landscape in the coming year.

For more detailed discussions and expert opinions on the NFL draft, tune into future episodes of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg on 880 ESPN and the ESPN New York app.