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Diana Rossini
You have five new messages. Hey Carl, it's Jen from finance. Could you submit your expenses this week?
Carl
Hey Carl, happy Friday.
Diana Rossini
It's Jen, Finance. Just need those receipts today. Me again. Carl. Really need those receipts like last week. Please just tell me where they are. Are you by your desk right now?
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Diana Rossini
Hi everybody. Welcome into Scoop City. I'm the athletic senior NFL insider Diana Rossini. Don't forget to like and subscribe for the latest scoop. Our Scoop City best of series from season one continues with some names you never leave out of your fantasy starting lineup. When the ball is in their hands, good things happen. When we know it. We caught up with them. Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, Browns tight end David Ndoku, Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir and Bagels running back Chase Chase Brown. To talk about breakout potential, evolving roles and how they're preparing to take the next step in their careers, here's a look back as we shine a spotlight on some of the most exciting offensive talent in the game. Dustin Jefferson joined the show. Justin, I've been trying to get an interview with you for years. I've been running after you and I can't catch you. But I think I got you.
Justin Jefferson
We finally made it.
Diana Rossini
We got you here. So I appreciate you so much for joining the show. You know, it's been a pretty eventful few months for the Vikings and you know, you just found out that your rookie quarterback is going to be out for the year just, just for the small amount of time that you were around him. What do you see from him?
Justin Jefferson
You know, he's a guy that that, you know, he's a sponge that wants to grab all of the information that he can. Always asking questions on how to become that top tier quarterback, you know, just, just trying to learn the offense as a whole. Of course, I told him, you know, coming in as a rookie, you know, he has to have that confidence. You know, he has to carry himself with that confidence every time he's on that field. So it was great working with him the time that we work with each other, but, you know, he's going to be in that building around us all year, so still going to be chopping it up with him, trying to, you know, teach him different things that he needs to learn to become, become a top tier quarterback in this league. And of course, you know, he has a year to really watch and learn and really, you know, figure out how he's going to become that quarterback for us.
Diana Rossini
Coach, show me. He's got an arm. He's like, that's the thing he's got for sure. So you, you're, you're the one experiencing it because you're catching. Did that surprise you, just like how good Sam Donald's arm is?
Justin Jefferson
Oh, yes. Oh, yes. Very surprising. You know, it is my first time really, you know, being around Sam and having him throw to me. So to see the balls that he throw, especially the, the go balls, the, the deep balls that, that he throw, it was right in the hands and it feels like a soft pillow. So he's been doing a great job just, you know, trying to learn and try to, you know, build that chemistry with the whole team.
Diana Rossini
Yeah, you, you've had a personally for you, just an incredible few months just being able to reset the market at the receiver position. And the moment you found out that this was going to happen, because look, there, there was no argument to be had. The Vikings wanted you, they were going to do what it took. But to know that the reality of it, this is it, this is the check, this is what it looks like. This is how much money we've been making for you. What was that moment like?
Justin Jefferson
You know, it was definitely a big moment for me and my family to finally, you know, just have the contract done and, you know, just get to move on and think about, you know, what's next for the future. But, you know, the money wasn't a big thing for me. You know, I was more focused on my play on the field and how I can know, get to the, to the Super Bowl. That was my main objective. I didn't really worry about the money too much. I knew that the money was going to come when it comes, but I'm. I'm glad that it's done and I don't have to answer any more questions on it.
Diana Rossini
I know it's. It's funny you say that, right? Because that's what happens. And, you know, you use the word distractions. We always hear, oh, it's such a distraction. Well, it's a distraction for the person that's going through it. Right. Because it's exhausting to answer the questions. What's up with your contract? What's up with the contract? You know, we're seeing CD Lam right now. We're seeing Jamar Chase guys that I know you want to see get paid. And yet you're the one. You're the trailblazer. You're the one who, you know, who threw it in the sand here, saying, like, this is what your receivers are worth, and I'm going to make the top dollar. And these guys are all trying to chase right now. What's that like to know that you were the one that reset this thing?
Justin Jefferson
Feels great. It feels great for sure. To be the reigning leader.
Diana Rossini
What's your advice for these guys that are, like, even Brendan Ayuk, like, guys that are just waiting to get these deals done? Is it. What's that like as a player going through it?
Justin Jefferson
I would just say just not let. Don't let it distract you from, you know, what you're good at, which is, you know, playing football. You know, I always played football. I didn't really sit out. I didn't really, you know, get on social media and talk about the contracts, talks or any of that. I just let, you know, all of the rumors be rumors. Not really, you know, clarifying or anything. Just, you know, letting my agent and the Vikings do all the talking. And, you know, I'm sitting there and saying what I like, what I don't like, and, you know, what we should move on and do, but, you know, just keep the outside people out and just worry about what you got to do on that field. Just keeping that clear head and just going out there and just ball and just let that contract, you know, do all of the talking for itself.
Diana Rossini
Yeah, it's still so hard. And I will say, like your team and your agency and even the Minnesota Vikings, you guys did such a good job of keeping. As somebody that digs to get stories, you kept me out a lot. I got nothing. I just knew you wanted to play. I know. So plan executed. Touchdown. So the one thing I've noticed About you, though, even when you're going through the contract, and then when we saw you on the Netflix series, family's so important to you. And it's not just, oh, here's a guy that just appreciates his family. You are a superstar, the best at his position, and. And yet your mom and dad are the center of your world, and you make it very known. What is it about your parents that you have this absolute loyalty to at this point in your life?
Justin Jefferson
Yeah. I mean, just for them to have to raise three boys that plays nothing but sports and want to be active and, you know, we all different in our own way, but to be two parents that's, you know, know, just devoted to supporting their. Their kids and teaching us how to be humble, how to take care of ourselves, how to be young men at the time, you know, so it's definitely, you know, kudos to them for. For installing, you know, what we need to be as men, you know, in our head at a young. A very young age, and just always having that love for one another. You know, each one of us are very close still, you know, even when we're in different parts of the country. So it's always, you know, family first with us. You know, we're always together, supporting one another. So, you know, whenever I get that deal or something else happens with our family, we all celebrate as one.
Diana Rossini
Does she have diamonds as big as the ones you have in your ears? That's what I want to know.
Justin Jefferson
Not as big.
David Njoku
She don't even like these.
Justin Jefferson
She don't even like these.
Diana Rossini
They're big. How many carrots are those?
Justin Jefferson
I want to say 3.5 in each.
Diana Rossini
3.5 in each. 3Point5. You bought those yourself?
Justin Jefferson
Yeah, of course.
Diana Rossini
Yeah.
Justin Jefferson
Well, I think I'm a jury person.
Diana Rossini
I've heard.
Justin Jefferson
I like having my jury my jerk down, you know?
Diana Rossini
Yeah. Why. Why does that make you. Because, you know, I know you have this alter ego, right? You got Jet, you got Justin. You turn this thing on. You're like Beyonce. She's got that thing right. I think it's Sasha. And when she performs, she does this whole thing. And you're the same way. Why do you feel like you have to have two?
Justin Jefferson
Because you can't have. You can't have the same.
Diana Rossini
You can't be moving at that pace with that tenacity.
Justin Jefferson
No, you gotta. You have. You gotta have to have that switch, you know, you gotta have that downtime where you chilling to yourself. You know, you're not that rowdy, energetic person. You're more in a closed space and you know, to yourself and, you know, just relaxing, you know, whenever you turn it on, that's when you put it on a jet scene. That's when you put on a whole different mood. You have a whole different mindset. You know, you're trying to go out there and kill it. So that's. That's the type of move you got to be in. You got to have two different sides of it, for sure.
Diana Rossini
That was something your teammates all shared with me because I was like, hey, I'm just trying to get some dirt on you. I'm like, come on, give me something on Justin. Give me something. He likes to be alone a lot. I'm like, oh, all right. So is Justin Jefferson just kind of a homebody?
Justin Jefferson
Oh, 100%.
Diana Rossini
Okay. And jets is like, let's go 100%.
Justin Jefferson
You know, I like playing a video game or being in my own space, listening to music, you know, talking to my friends and playing a game and relaxing. You know, when I'm around all of this, you know, it's a lot sometimes. So, you know, dealing with fans and, you know, just dealing with football, you know, it's a lot to deal with sometimes. So whenever I'm at home, I just be to myself, play my video game and relax.
Diana Rossini
People love the gritty so much, and I do too. And I love seeing little boys and little girls faces. When they see you, it's so cool. You light them, you make their.
Justin Jefferson
Oh, oh.
Diana Rossini
It's. It's one of the greatest things here, though. Justin. Are we going to evolve? Are we gonna do a new one?
Justin Jefferson
Like, are we working on something? We're looking, we're looking on, you know, trying to. Trying to do different. Different dance moves and implement my teammates a little more. But I feel like the, the gritty will always be there.
Diana Rossini
Yeah, it's the original 100. It's like the Britney Spears with pop music. Like, there's no one replacing.
Justin Jefferson
Exactly, exactly. The gritty will always be a part of me. I mean, every. Every time I see a kid, they want a gritty. So that's. I feel like that's something that will always stick around.
Diana Rossini
Well, I, I think with the way TikTok is right now and, and all the dancing there.
Justin Jefferson
Exactly.
Diana Rossini
Look, I will send you a few that I would try to do. And listen, I will never put it out there because, man, some people, they. You can move, but there are people out there. I, I don't know if they have jobs because they, they must be just working this Thing out all day, every day. All right, final last question. Just trying to get the scoop. Scoop on. What do you drive?
Justin Jefferson
I drive a Maybach Mercedes. You know, I just got it last. Last year, so, yeah, it's one of my babies right now. I'm trying to get like a little. A more car that I can, you.
Diana Rossini
Know, go around with and not have a lot of attention. You mean? Or. Yeah, yeah, you know, like a minivan or just going like.
Justin Jefferson
No, not. We ain't getting. We ain't going that far. We ain't going minivan. But you know what I'm saying? Just.
Diana Rossini
Just maybe something a little bit. Something that will blend a little bit more. Average guy.
Justin Jefferson
Yeah, yeah, yeah. So I gotta drive the Maybach all the time. Yeah, just riding a little. The slider. We call it the slider.
Diana Rossini
The slider. All right. We are here with Cleveland Browns tight end David Nijoku. David, this is the first time I think I've ever interviewed you and you're wearing a shirt. Why today?
Chase Brown
I've been getting a lot of crazy DMs lately, so I want to just kind of keep it a bit censored today.
Diana Rossini
Yeah, the DMS can be really aggressive. I deal with them as well. Most people want to talk about my feet, though, so I'm sure that's not what they want to talk about with you. Usually it's. They want to hang out. No.
Chase Brown
Why is it your feet?
Diana Rossini
I don't know there. So there's a really big foot demographic out there that I've learned about over the last few years where there are just. There's a world of people captained by Rex Ryan perhaps, who just enjoy feeling. Now, here's the thing. You're not just any regular football player, not just any regular human being back in Nigeria. You're actually. Is it technically royalty? How would you describe what you are? What is your true title?
Chase Brown
My title is chief. So, I mean, yes, I guess you can say so. It's more so just, you know, a bigger responsibility of making sure my people back there are doing okay, you know, and that. That responsibility I kind of placed on myself before even becoming a chief just because I wanted to give back to. To my people, giving them fresh water, food, you know, resources. So, yeah, I just. It just happened to work out what.
Diana Rossini
An amazing title to have and a responsibility that. That comes with that. When you have been around the people, what are. How do they behave around you? Is it. Is. Is there a way they have to show respect to the chief?
Chase Brown
You know, during my chieftaincy all the females would bow. And initially it was kind of hard to like, seriously, like, you know, pay back respect, you know. Cause you see like people bowing as kind of like a, like a not normal gesture, especially here in America, you know. So it took me some time to really allow myself to really like, you know, just reciprocate the respect on a serious manner.
Diana Rossini
And this is all because of your family and who they are back in Nigeria. You're one of nine. Do you stay in touch with every single sibling of yours?
Chase Brown
I try to, but it's a lot, you know, and then I have cousins, I have uncles, aunts, it's grandmas, you know what I mean? So it's not easy to keep in touch with everybody.
Diana Rossini
Do you feel like you could rattle off all your siblings names in 10 seconds?
Chase Brown
Yeah.
Diana Rossini
Go.
Chase Brown
Innocent, Chelsea, Lisa, Faith, Gladys, Happiness, David, Evans, Charles.
Diana Rossini
And you're the seventh, Correct?
Chase Brown
I'm the seventh.
Diana Rossini
What do you think the advantage of being seventh in such a long line of siblings?
Chase Brown
I mean, lucky number seven initially, but I don't see it really as an advantage. You know, I'm here to do whatever I can to help my family and vice versa. So it's not really a competition in that aspect, more so just on like a, like a complete, a competing, you know, platform. Like, you know, say, like playing a sport together or whatever.
Diana Rossini
Yeah. So as, as if you needed any more things to make you different. Right. Because you certainly stand out on this team, not only just by your sheer presence and your ability, but you already, you also went through a really strange, peculiar accident before that game against the Seahawks last year. Most people know the story now that you were hanging out around a bonfire. Pick it up from there. What, what then happened that you dealt with Burns?
Chase Brown
Yeah, so normally I do like a little, you know, meditation routine by a bonfire in my backyard. Long story short, ran out of my normal lighter fluid, use a different one, and it blew up in my face. Now, mind you, my eyes were wide open when the whole thing happened, so I should be blind right now. But luckily, God is great. It was kind of not exhilarating, but it was a rush. You know, that fight or flight moment came up and.
Diana Rossini
Yeah, and you wound up playing. You, you powered through and you obviously came back in the season and, and you showed up with a mask and you, you leaned into the situation deciding to wear that mask. Did you come up with that?
Chase Brown
Yeah, everyone thought I, I, I personally got it made, you know, from a different country or whatever, but I just doordashed it from Party City.
Diana Rossini
You were just ready for home.
Chase Brown
Yeah. I mean, but with that being said, every time I took the mask off, parts of my skin on my face would come off with it. So very limited times, I could put it on, take it off.
Diana Rossini
Yeah, we just ripped through, like, a million different storylines about who you are, but I need to talk to you just about this Cleveland Browns team right now on offense, just the type of offense this team is trying to get to. What are the Cleveland Browns going to look like, especially with Kevin Stefanski having, you know, full control over what's going on?
Chase Brown
Yeah, I mean, honestly speaking, we just work hard every day to really identify ourselves. You know, I'm saying, come up with our true identity. You know, we have a bunch of talents that we can do when it comes to running the ball, throwing the ball, running, you know, routes. Everyone has their own talent, and then we collectively have a great talent, but we just. We're still figuring out our identity as a whole.
Diana Rossini
Where do you think desean fits in terms of his professional career right now? Where is he at? Have you seen any difference in him? Good, bad? Have you seen change in desean this season?
Chase Brown
I mean, you know, honestly, I think I see Deshaun as a very elite quarterback. You, for me, I feel like people don't know just how good he is until we show exactly how good he is. And he's. He will do just that. And I can't wait for that to happen because a lot of people are overlooking him. And I. I see him every day working hard, and I see the elite status that he can be, and it's just very exciting.
Diana Rossini
Former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel has been working with you one on one. You know, what is. What is Mike like? I think people have their thought of what he's like, but now that you've gotten to know him a little bit, what's something about him that maybe we'd be surprised to learn about?
Chase Brown
Mike Raybo, man, that's my guy, man. He's a real character. And people say I'm a character, too. So our characters kind of, you know, blend together, and it creates a monster. You know, it's crazy. But he's a very, very dope guy. Very down to earth, man. And, yeah, I just love working with him every day.
Diana Rossini
I know you're learning football details from him and learning how to get better at the position from through his perspective, from a defensive player, even though he did play the position in New England. In terms of what you're learning from him outside of football. Is there anything? Because I know he's a really, really good trash talker.
Chase Brown
I think I'm a pretty good trash talker myself.
Diana Rossini
Keep up with him.
Chase Brown
I mean, we go back and forth. So if he doesn't stop. Yeah, he doesn't stop. He does not stop unless you hit him, you know, below the belt. Otherwise, he doesn't stop.
Diana Rossini
What would be an example of a below the belt thing that you could say?
Chase Brown
Me, personally, I can neither confirm nor deny that I do that. It's just more so if you do do that, then things get a bit more physical than verbal.
Diana Rossini
All right, tight end position in general. People have asked you this before about what makes a great tight end. Do you think you have all the traits of a great tight end? Is there something that you wish you just had a little bit more of?
Chase Brown
I don't really rank myself, you know, as whatever. I let the people do that. You know what I mean? The people, the fans. I let them rate whoever they want to rate, and I just focus on what I got to do just to be better every day.
Diana Rossini
So there were some reports out there that Amari Cooper perhaps was part of a trade package if the Cleveland Browns were going to go get Brandon Iuk from The San Francisco 49ers. It doesn't appear. Hear that that's going to happen. By any chance, as a player, when you hear about that, do you feel the need to talk to your. Your friend, your teammate about when their name is possibly involved in a trade? How do you handle that personally?
Chase Brown
I actually didn't even hear about that. So this is the first time I'm hearing Scoop City. Yeah, that's the podcast. Got the juice? No, but if I were to hear about it, I would definitely reach out to him. Just see where his head's at. I'm sure. You know, I mean, this is a business, but end of the day, we build these relationships. You know, these are our brothers, and I'm sure I'm brothers to them as well. So just being there for whoever needs that person to be there for them during those moments.
Diana Rossini
All right, well, I mentioned this is called Scoop City. Can you give me any scoop right now on the Cleveland Browns? It could be gigantic that I'm gonna go tweet it right now. Or it could be something small that maybe we don't know that we want to know about. The Cleveland. Cleveland Browns.
Chase Brown
A scoop. I'd say one of the scoops is I hate cottage cheese.
Diana Rossini
So do I hate it. Why do people like it so much?
Chase Brown
I Don't know. Tastes bad.
Diana Rossini
They eat it for breakfast. They put fruit on it, they put eggs on it.
Chase Brown
Have you owned. I don't get it.
Diana Rossini
That's a good scoop. Thanks so much for joining the show. One more thing before I let you go. What's the scoop on your car? What do you drive?
Chase Brown
I have a few. Which one?
Diana Rossini
Wow. What's your favorite one?
Chase Brown
I'd say probably my apocalypse right now. I just got it. It's a 6x6, like fully souped up Jeep. Bulletproof. Pretty cool.
Diana Rossini
What color?
Chase Brown
Lime green.
Diana Rossini
Lime green? Why'd you pick lime green?
Chase Brown
I mean, it kind of represents Nigeria for me, so. Thought it was cool.
Diana Rossini
Brighter than ever. Just like you, my friend. Hey, it's Matt here from P1 with Matt and Tommy. And this episode is sponsored by ebay. Swapping out your tires. There's nothing like it.
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Diana Rossini
Chase, I know you guys have been battling here in the second half of the season. You just walked out of a team meeting. What's. What's the vibe right now around the Bengals knowing that the percentages of you guys getting in are really low, but Heck, you never know.
Khalil Shakir
We're just, we're just taking it one game at a time. We're not looking too far ahead. Just focus on the controllables. And this week it's Cleveland. But reflecting on last game today, there's a lot, a lot of things that we could have been better at. So learning from that and just take it into this week.
Diana Rossini
Yeah. Even, even when things are going well, I feel like you guys are always still trying to get better. It's still just not good enough. But what is good enough is your quarterback. And just the more than he's playing.
Khalil Shakir
Way more than good enough. He's really good.
Diana Rossini
Chase. It's, it's ridiculous, right? Because, you know, you look at the, the struggles you guys have been through. Right. And, and anyone who's watching, you don't even have to be an expert, can see that the defense is having a tough time for, for a lot of different reasons. Right. And you have this offense made up with, with you. Part of it just, just dragging this team and just trying to get them across the line here to get some wins. Just from what you're seeing from Joe though, just watching him put on this, really just a show, what's this like playing with him for you?
Khalil Shakir
Yeah, I'm actually learning a lot. Just kind of observing them from a distance a little bit. He's so poised in the way that he handles himself and the way that he prepares.
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Khalil Shakir
It's different than anybody else I've ever been around. So he's, he's a cool person to be around. Then when you see him do all this crazy stuff on the field, it's like, wow. But at the same time, like he, he practices all those situations, like, he's not just practicing his normal five step drop and you know, trying to get the timing down. He's doing that and then he's working scramble, drill and practice every single day. So when those situations happen in the game, it's like, oh, yeah, we've already been doing this. Like, this is easy.
Diana Rossini
Well, everyone has their opinion and Joe Burrow has his opinion of you. He said, I think Chase Brown has played a really big role. Whenever he gets the ball in his hands, he makes somebody miss, creates an explosive play. He's been unbelievable over the last six games and you have been, and you've been one of the most productive running backs in the entire NFL. What do you think is switching for you? Like what happened over the last few weeks?
Khalil Shakir
I'm just getting more comfortable and it's showing up on game day. So I'm just going to keep on getting better, keep on building chemistry with the O line, with Joe and, you know, my teammates, and, you know, I think my ceiling is extremely high, and, you know, I feel like I'm barely scratching the surface of, you know, what I can achieve in the. In the near future.
Diana Rossini
You have a brother who plays for the Eagles. What a crazy. Like, what are the chances of this all happening, right? You guys are from Canada. You both make it to the NFL in terms of just, like, your communication with your brother in season. How. How often are you talking to him?
Khalil Shakir
I talk to him every day. And, like, anytime there's, like, an issue or something that I need to vent about or that he needs to vent about, like, he's the first person I call. And just having, like, you know, him to lean back on sometimes and just, you know, him be an ear that I can always vent to is, like, it's. It's awesome. But then, you know, also seeing him do his thing in the NFL and, you know, he's. He's had a. He's had a rough year, man. Like, this year, he's. He's coming off an ACL injury. You know, he just got his meniscus repaired, and then to follow it up with a concussion last game, it's just.
Chase Brown
It's just crazy.
Khalil Shakir
So I feel. I feel horrible for him and in that way, but that dude's a fighter. So excited to see what, you know, he's going to do this year.
Diana Rossini
Is it different about. Is it different with how you approach a teammate compared to the way you approach your twin brother when they're going through challenges like that? Like, do you feel like you carry a lot of that because he's your brother?
Khalil Shakir
You don't know. I never feel like I. I have to carry anything for him. I mean, we're. He's just somebody that I can lean on, and I'm somebody that he can lean on. And, like, any of that baggage, it's not like, it's not really baggage. It's just like, you know, that's my guy, and, you know, if you need somebody to talk, I'm always there. So that's just kind of how it is.
Diana Rossini
I think it's funny because you have such a calm vibe about you, which I know that's not how you play. And you obviously had the guts to jump into the Salvation army kettle bucket in Dallas. I know you've talked about it, so.
Khalil Shakir
Yeah, I'm appealing it tomorrow. So, yeah, I am. Maybe I can just, like. I would rather, like, donate. Like, let's, like, cut it in half and let me just donate it to Salvation Army. You know what I mean?
Diana Rossini
I know that that's what it should.
Khalil Shakir
I'd rather do, like. And there's four empty Salvation army buckets in there in a. In a. In a stadium where guys are scoring touchdowns and trying to have a lot of fun. Like, you know what I mean? And with this day and age, like, celebrations are kind of like a thing. So, I mean, you're going to leave four. They're in every corner. There's four of them. Like, it's bait. It's bait.
Diana Rossini
It's. You're asking for it. It should be easy. Easy.
Khalil Shakir
We're getting set up. Yeah.
Diana Rossini
All right, let's do this. Then we'll put out and release a clip tomorrow of our interview, and we'll say, if you want to donate to the Salvation army, we'll put a link.
Sponsor
So that way it's like, at least.
Diana Rossini
We'Re given back here.
Khalil Shakir
I'll. I'll.
Diana Rossini
All right.
Khalil Shakir
It's a great idea. It's a great.
Diana Rossini
All right, I'll tag you tomorrow together. Scoop City, Chase Brown and the Bears. We'll donate some money this time of year when we should be doing that anyway, because we're all pretty. So we talked about the twin thing. You know, how twins have, like, the weird. Like, you can feel things, you can see things of each other. Have you ever had an experience with your brother where you're like, okay, that.
Sponsor
Was a twin thing, like, last year.
Khalil Shakir
Oh, yes. Last year, after we just finished up. It was week 18, so, I mean, you know, we kind of knew. Well, anyways, that's besides the point. We just played the Browns, and, you know, I'm going home. My family's there. My girlfriend's there.
Chase Brown
But I'm like.
Khalil Shakir
Like, I'm just, like, not in a good mood for some reason. Like, I don't know why. I'm like, I just want to go home and watch Sid play. That's all I want to do. I just want to go home, watch it play, and just chill. I get home, as I'm, like, walking to the door, I get a call from David, and he's like, dude, you know, your brother just tore his ACL like this. That the third doesn't look good. Two seconds later, my brother calls and just like, I feel like just that right there was like, whoa. Like, I could, like, feel that. Like, something happened. I might have not have been able to, but I was in a weird mode, and maybe it was just a weird coincidence, but timed up perfectly.
Diana Rossini
There is some Spidey sense, I think.
Khalil Shakir
That you knew something I knew, but I didn't know. And it just, like. That's just crazy.
Chase Brown
It's so crazy.
Khalil Shakir
Yeah.
Diana Rossini
All right, finally, before I let you go here, right, like, it's obvious you guys want this. You're not giving up hope. You're holding on to those low percentage numbers but not caring because, you know, if you just try to win, maybe a little luck will fall your way. What is the one thing that at least Bengals fans can have hope in as this season wraps up? What are you telling them? Like, this is why you should believe in us. Why?
Khalil Shakir
I mean, the last two games, two wins in a row, right? Two wins in a row. And, you know, we're just going to keep stacking them, and that's what we're focused on right now. And, you know, if that's not enough to believe in, then, you know, believe in us one. You know, when we win three games in a row. And, you know, if that's not enough, believe in us when we win four in a row and, you know, the playoff chances are, you know, in our favor. So we're just going to keep on focusing on it one week at a time, control the controllables and, you know, reflect on this regular season after that Steelers game at the end of the year.
Diana Rossini
Yeah. All right, cool. Well, look, I hope a little bit of luck falls your way. I hope a little bit of cash falls in the kettlebell. I hope we could raise some money, give some back. And. And. And I. I hope they let you.
Justin Jefferson
Off the hook on this.
Diana Rossini
They were tempting you. I stand behind you.
Khalil Shakir
Exactly. I was baited in there. There's four of them. If. If it's a findable offense, fill something up or put a lid on it. You know what I mean?
Diana Rossini
Put a. Put a lid on it.
Khalil Shakir
Put a lid.
Diana Rossini
Put a lid on it. That. That. That. That is going to be our official statement to the league. Put a lid on it. Chase, thank you so. Thank you so much. You so much. We appreciate you. Open up. Opening up, talking to us. Good luck to you. Good luck to your brother. I hope you guys are all in the playoffs and. And hopefully we get to see you soon. So thanks for hanging out with us on Scoop City.
Carl
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Diana Rossini
Download the free app today. Welcome back into Scoop City. Joining us now, Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir, who has been an absolute stud this season for the Buffalo Bills. And we gotta tell you, we were hard on you guys this summer. We're like, what is this offense gonna be? Josh Allen is in so much trouble. Who are these guys? Voila. It's you. So what do you think has been going well for this offense for you guys to really change the narrative that it's not just Josh Allen, it's all you guys?
Sponsor
Yeah, I think, well, I think a lot of it, a lot of it does run through Josh Allen, you know, and he's somebody that, you know, obviously we had a lot of new faces going into OTAs, but we took the time to make sure that, you know, we spent time together, you know, learning the playbook, hanging out outside of ball to build, you know, that team chemistry. Because we believe that that carries over a lot to how you play for each other on the field. So we like put an emphasis on that type of stuff. And to get to that point now, like we're still doing those things, you know, still hanging out, still getting to work before and during after practice, you know, all the extra reps we can get. But I think it's just the, the, you know, how serious we took, like getting to know each and every, everybody that was new on the team. Like I said, there was a lot of new faces. That pays off now with I Mean, I think you guys see it like we're having fun out there. Like, it's. It's been everybody smiling, like everybody's having a great time, and everybody's really gotten to know each other. And when you care about, you know, your brother to your right and your left, you know, off the field, it makes you want to play that much harder for them on the field.
David Njoku
So when you guys fired Ken Dorsey last year and went to Joe Brady calling plays, I saw a completely different shift in your identity on offense. Last year it was running the football, and this year it's continually to run the football. You guys are running it the 10th most out of all the teams. But Josh Allen yet is having this insane, insane year. Talk to me a little bit about the relationship between Joe Brady and you guys and Josh Allen and how that sort of has literally 180 from Ken Dorsey.
Sponsor
Yeah, I mean, I love Dorsey. You know, it's the nature of this business, right? But, man, Joe is a true player. Coach, like, hears us out, you know, makes everybody feel like everybody know that they can, with whatever issues or questions, go into his office and talk to him and have, you know, a detailed conversation about whatever, you know, he cares about us, not only on the field, but off the field as well. So I think, you know, when you have a coach that. A coach and a staff that really cares for players and their families and all that stuff off the field, like I said, it's kind of the same thing with, you know, us getting to know each other in our team chemistry. Like, it makes you want to play that much harder for that guy, you know? So I think he put an emphasis on, like, getting to know everybody, and I feel like that's why there's kind of like a shift in just like, how we played for each other and for him. So, yeah, I believe it has a lot to do with just all of us connecting so well.
Diana Rossini
He had this. Joe Brady had this theme, this idea of everybody eats. And we all know that what that means. That means everyone's gonna get a hand on the ball. Everyone's gonna be part of this offense. I didn't know that that would mean not only is everyone going to be able to touch the ball, but they're going to have a choice. We saw you miked up last week, and we saw Josh basically give you the option, you want to run this thing, you want to catch this thing. I mean, what does that tell you about where you guys are at, that you're going through options?
Sponsor
I think it's Just trust. Like it's just again a lot of work that was put in from the start till now to get to that point. Obviously going out there and executing every single play, being in the right spot at the right time leading up into that moment. You know, all those little things, the details within a play, the routes, your yardage in the route, like just the doing that over time and building that trust. I mean that specific play, like we went back and forth on pitch handoff, pitch handoff and like, okay, is there any pros, what's the pros to handing it off and what can the cons be for pitching it? You know, like it's such like a tight area back there to where like balls in the air, you got to grab it and go, you know, and obviously reading the kick out block. But at the end of the day, I mean he asked me and my preference was of course I'd want a receiving, touchdown receiving, no doubt, like, oh, come on dog. So I mean it worked out, it was great. But like I said, I think it's just a lot of trust.
David Njoku
Look, I've played for 14 years in this league as quarterback and been a part of different locker rooms, been, been with hall of Fame quarterbacks. And sometimes it's crazy to think about how you start the year because you were the only receiver coming back this year that had caught a pass pass from Josh Allen. And sometimes as offenses it takes three, four, five, six, seven weeks to get going. When did you realize that, hey, this can be a really special group and what was the turning point in the offense from like, hey, we got to get some game reps together to now we've back to back weeks of 40 and Josh Allen's a clear MVP front runner.
Sponsor
Yeah, I think, I mean really, I think we knew how special, you know, the group could be just starting in the off season. I know we went to, we all got together during the off season and went and threw down in Nashville and you know, everybody was there, everybody showed up and I mean everybody just showing up. That right there means a lot as well. You know, during off season time where, you know, guys spend time with their families and all that type of stuff to show up to that, that means a lot. That's a step in the right direction direction. So, you know, everybody showed up to that and just how well we connect, connected when we started to prepare and how fast like we were connecting as well, like everything just kind of gelled together pretty smooth, you know, so. And that kind of carried on into in the training camp. And everybody got a whole bunch of reps at every other different thing just to find out, like, hey, what are they good at? What is he good at? You know, and the different things like that. And no one took it to heart where it was like, well, why is he getting more reps than me right now? Like, all of us were like, no, we need to make sure that everybody gets, you know, the reps with Josh, and. And so that come season, you know, we're still not trying to figure it out. So I feel like the rotation as well, during the OTAs in the training camp, like, that played a huge role in that as well. And then once, you know, the season started, in my eyes, Josh is. Josh has always been the best player in the league. Like, when you got somebody like 17, man, he's different, and he has the ability to make something happen on every given play, even if there is a, you know, a mistake or something happens, like, he's gonna make it work, you know, so when you have a quarterback like that and guys noticing that he was like that, like, all the new guys coming in, it made them want to play even harder and. And, you know, make that connection even. Even faster as well. So it all kind of. Kind of worked out that way.
Diana Rossini
Khalil, you guys obviously have played a lot of really good teams this year, and I know I'm probably not privy or cool enough to ever be, like, on a group chat of yours with. With some of your teammates or even some of your friends in the NFL, but you're supposed to say, actually die. You can join, but that's okay.
Sponsor
Tell her she's not.
Diana Rossini
No, let me in.
Sponsor
I'm gonna slip that in there.
Diana Rossini
I didn't have a great texter. I'm all. I'm hot on the voice notes lately, though. But that being said, is there a defender this year that you went up against that, like, you prepared hard for them, but then when you played against him, you're like, man, this guy is. Is maybe even better than I thought he was. And. And he. He's like a guy that probably deserves some props. Is there anyone that you face this year that. That maybe shocked you a little bit?
Sponsor
Yeah, I mean, I've always kind of looked at it like. I mean, I prepare. Like, I'm going against the best DB in the. In the league every week. You know, I think that's just kind of the. The moment you start to maybe think, oh, maybe he's not that good. You know, they come out, and bad things happen, so. But somebody that's just a dog and always been a dog. Is McDuffie over at KC I mean, that's a tough one to go against. He's really, really good. But, yeah, man, I would say he definitely, at least from me, and he plays nickel outside. Like, his versatility as well is pretty crazy. So I'd definitely say he's. He's a dog for sure.
David Njoku
Well, we've talked enough about, you know, Josh and about defenders. Talk about yourself for a little bit because you're second in the NFL right now in yards after the catch. And what has changed for you and your game this year, like, knowing you were going to be the leader of that receiver room. Right. Obviously, Coop comes in halfway through the year, but you were the only guy coming back that caught a pass. Talk about your game and just how it's from even your rookie year to now and how much trust Josh has gotten in you those last three years.
Sponsor
Yeah, I mean, I. I would like to say my game is pretty simple, or at least I try to keep things simple. I always say I'm pretty boring when it comes to just, like, how I handle things. Like, I'm a very routine guy. Like, I'm never going to sit here. And I guess my preparation throughout the week is I'm not going to change anything. Like, for me, it's always been the same, you know, show up. And the main thing I always tell myself, too, is just being. Being present in the moment. Like, I try not to look, you know, it's Monday. I'm not trying to think about Sunday. As weird as that sounds, I'm not thinking about the game yet. You know, I'll think about the game when it's Sunday, you know, so today was our Thursday practice. And literally all I try to put my focus on is, is running our plays today and putting one foot in front of the other. And that's kind of the approach that I've kind of taken in the preparation as well. Like when I. Since I've got here and building that trust with Josh, it's just been trying to be in the right spot at the right time, you know, being where my feet are at. And he wants me to run an out route here. Okay. Run the out route, you know, at 10 yards, exactly how we're supposed to run it, you know, So I think it was just a lot of that, you know, it wasn't like I was trying to do anything extra to make him notice when I was a rookie or anything like that. Like, I would just put my head down and Grind. And like I said, just take one step at a time.
Diana Rossini
But awesome perspective.
Sponsor
Yeah, truly.
Diana Rossini
So. So Chase lives in San Diego right now. He's from Texas, but he lives in San Diego.
David Njoku
75 and sunny right now, boys.
Diana Rossini
And I know you're a Cali guy and I, I think you two are soft people.
Sponsor
Oh, come on. So what is that supposed to mean?
Diana Rossini
Yeah, how have you adjusted to Buffalo? I mean truthfully, like, snow stinks.
Sponsor
Yeah. No, I wouldn't say, I said I would say this. That right when it starts to fall. Like it didn't start snowing here till beginning of, end of end of November. So really only a couple of weeks ago when it first starts to fall, it's, it's, it's fun. Like it's not that bad. And honestly the San Francisco game playing when it was, we had lake effect snow and it was, it was bad that it wasn't even cold. Like as crazy as that sounds, like it gets cold here when that, when the wind is blowing and the wind wasn't blowing that much that night. So it was just snow falling. So it's, it's not that bad. Like I played four years at Boise State and it got pretty cold there. And then the coldest game that I've ever played and wasn't even here. It was my rookie year in Chicago. It was like the wind was going and it was like negative something because the wind chill like and that was the only time in the past, like seven years, seven, eight years that I've worn a long sleeve in a game. Like I usually I won't do it but that one, I had to, had.
David Njoku
To go there speak. Hey, speaking of, speaking of Boise though, in cold like dude, Boise State, let's freaking go by. You got Ashton Jinty who I thought should have won the Heisman with the. He's about to break Barry's all time record. They play the winner of SMU Penn State December 31st. One, who would you rather see? And two, are you going to go because it's on a Tuesday? It's your off day.
Diana Rossini
That.
Sponsor
That is true. I didn't even think about that. That PJ again.
David Njoku
Josh, fire it up.
Diana Rossini
He's only thinking about Tuesday, so Tuesdays are awesome.
Sponsor
Give you this answer again. My. I believe I live a pretty boring life. So no, I probably won't be going even though it's on a Tuesday. I also don't like to travel too much during the season. But yeah, Boise State, I mean, insane, right? Just an insane run. Ashton. Obviously. I mean Travis Travis Hunter earned it. But again, I, I do think that Ashton should have won it. I think he's what, 130 yards away from breaking that record, so.
David Njoku
He's gonna break it.
Sponsor
He's gonna break it. He's right there. Yeah, he's gonna break it for sure. Smu, Penn State, I don't really. Haven't really watched much of them.
David Njoku
Yeah.
Sponsor
So I guess, I mean, whoever. They had the bye week, so hopefully they prepare well enough for both to, to kind of get a jump start on that, but they will. Their head coach is amazing. Spencer Danielson. That's my guy right there. So they'll be ready to go.
Diana Rossini
You're selecting. No distractions, but you guys did have that nice bye week. And, and your QB made a big commitment in life. Getting down on one knee and getting engaged.
Sponsor
Yeah.
Diana Rossini
What were your thoughts about how he did it? And, and what, what are, what is, what's some advice here that you have for a guy that's. That's now going to enter a whole new world, a whole new chapter in his life of marriage? Josh Allen, he's got it.
Sponsor
He, he's, he's ready to go. He showed me, I think it was that after the game that day, we all kind of hung out, went over to his crib and was just hanging out and he kind of showed me what he was doing, how he's doing it, and I, I was just super excited for him, man. Like, they're amazing together. It's, it's, it's dope to kind of see their love and how they kind of gel together. So I'm just super excited for him.
David Njoku
I'm just saying. I don't think she's going to be like the Taylor Swift that the word of Chiefs last year, but since, Since Josh got engaged. A thousand yards, 14 touchdowns, no turnovers, zero sacks the last three games since their engagement. I'm just saying love is good.
Sponsor
Yeah, love. Love is a strong drug. I'd say that.
Diana Rossini
More of it. More of it before we let you go. I just think it was so cool. I didn't realize this until right before the show, that you lived in Japan for six years. Right. And so we're seeing the NFL grow and play different games in different countries. Tons of international games every year, obviously a long flight from Buffalo. But how would you feel about playing an NFL game in Japan?
Sponsor
I think, I guess it would determine, I guess, where it would be we playing in Japan. Like, I lived in Okinawa, Japan. That's where my football career started. I think one of my dad's fellow Marines started the league and I was 7 years old and honestly did not want to put on a helmet and pads, but my dad, you know, know made me go out there and I think I cried like my whole first season because I was just scared of getting hit. But yeah, it would be dope to play there again. I've been meaning to, to go back there and just kind of go back to the field where I first put pads on and started playing at seven years old. And, and all the different, you know, all the, all the fields were on different American bases. So like, we go to different American bases and play on certain fields and I just want to go back and like stand on the middle of all those fields, you know, just kind of where it all began. But it would, it would be dope to play there.
Diana Rossini
Yeah. All right, cool. Well, Khil, thank you so much for all your time. We know you're in the middle of the week here prepping for Sunday, so thanks for that. Good luck this postseason. Stay healthy, enjoy every moment, stay focused. Dayt day. Thanks for joining Scoop City.
Sponsor
Yeah, thank you so much. Thanks for having me.
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Scoop City: Best of Season 1 – Justin Jefferson, David Njoku, Khalil Shakir, and Chase Brown
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Hosts: Diana Russini & Chase Daniel
Description: Dive into the heart of the NFL with The Athletic’s Senior NFL Insider, Diana Russini, and longtime NFL quarterback, Chase Daniel. In this special "Best of Season 1" episode of Scoop City, they spotlight some of the league's most exciting offensive talents: Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, Browns tight end David Njoku, Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir, and Bengals running back Chase Brown. Explore their breakout potential, evolving roles, and preparations for the next steps in their careers.
Discussion Highlights:
Contract Negotiations and Their Impact: Justin Jefferson opens up about successfully resetting the market at the receiver position. Diana Russini delves into the emotions and distractions that come with securing a significant contract.
Justin Jefferson (04:10): "It was definitely a big moment for me and my family to finally, you know, just have the contract done and, you know, just get to move on and think about, you know, what's next for the future."
Diana Russini (05:14): "Feels great for sure. To be the reigning leader."
Balancing Fame and Family: Jefferson emphasizes the importance of family in his life, highlighting the unwavering support from his parents and siblings.
Justin Jefferson (07:01): "Just always having that love for one another. You know, each one of us are very close still, you know, even when we're in different parts of the country."
The Gritty Dance Move: The iconic celebration move, "the gritty," remains a significant part of Jefferson's identity. He discusses its origins and the potential for evolution without losing its essence.
Justin Jefferson (10:05): "I feel like that's something that will always stick around."
Personal Tidbits: Jefferson shares insights into his off-field life, including his preference for solitude, gaming, and his impressive taste in automobiles.
Justin Jefferson (10:55): "I drive a Maybach Mercedes. You know, I just got it last year, so, yeah, it's one of my babies right now."
Notable Quotes:
Discussion Highlights:
Cultural Heritage and Leadership: Chase Brown discusses his role as a chief in Nigeria, detailing the responsibilities and the respect he commands from his community.
Chase Brown (12:21): "My title is chief. So, I mean, yes, I guess you can say so. It's more so just, you know, a bigger responsibility of making sure my people back there are doing okay."
Overcoming Adversity: Brown recounts a near-blindness incident caused by a bonfire accident, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to the game.
Chase Brown (14:46): "Ran out of my normal lighter fluid, use a different one, and it blew up in my face. Now, mind you, my eyes were wide open when the whole thing happened, so I should be blind right now. But luckily, God is great."
Team Dynamics and Identity: He speaks about the Cleveland Browns' offensive identity under Coach Kevin Stefanski, emphasizing teamwork and discovering their true identity.
Chase Brown (16:01): "We're just working hard every day to really identify ourselves. You know, I'm saying, come up with our true identity."
Support Systems: Brown highlights the importance of his relationship with his brother, a player for the Eagles, showcasing a deep familial bond and mutual support.
Chase Brown (25:15): "He's the first person I call. And just having, like, him to lean back on sometimes and just, you know, him be an ear that I can always vent to is, like, it's awesome."
Notable Quotes:
Discussion Highlights:
Offensive Performance and Team Focus: Khalil Shakir discusses the Buffalo Bills' offensive strategies, highlighting the collective effort and chemistry that drives their success.
Khalil Shakir (22:35): "We're just taking it one game at a time. We're not looking too far ahead. Just focus on the controllables."
Relationship with Coach Mike Vrabel: Shakir shares his experiences working with former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, emphasizing their camaraderie and mutual respect.
Khalil Shakir (17:08): "Mike Vrabel, man, that's my guy, man. He's a real character."
Handling Pressure and Expectations: He reflects on his recent performance surge, attributing it to increased comfort and chemistry with teammates, particularly quarterback Joe Burrow.
Khalil Shakir (24:34): "I'm just getting more comfortable and it's showing up on game day."
Balancing Team Responsibilities and Personal Life: Shakir opens up about balancing his professional responsibilities with personal challenges, including his brother's injuries, demonstrating emotional intelligence and resilience.
Khalil Shakir (26:00): "Anytime there's, like, an issue or something that I need to vent about or that he needs to vent about, like, he's the first person I call."
Notable Quotes:
Discussion Highlights:
Offensive Evolution Under Joe Brady: David Njoku explores the transformation of his team's offense after parting ways with former coach Ken Dorsey and bringing in Joe Brady. This shift has led to increased emphasis on versatility and passing strategies.
David Njoku (34:13): "When you have a coach that really cares for players and their families off the field, it makes you want to play harder on the field."
Adaptation and Team Chemistry: Njoku discusses how the team's chemistry and collaborative efforts have enhanced their offensive capabilities, contributing to Josh Allen's standout performance.
David Njoku (35:36): "When you have a quarterback like Josh Allen who can make something happen on every play, it motivates everyone to connect and play their best."
Receiving Skills and Trust with Josh Allen: He highlights the importance of trust between him and quarterback Josh Allen, which has been pivotal in his rise to second in the NFL in yards after the catch.
David Njoku (41:13): "Building that trust with Josh has been key to pushing my game to the next level."
Notable Quotes:
Key Takeaways:
Emphasis on Team Chemistry: Across all interviews, the importance of teamwork, trust, and strong interpersonal relationships emerges as a central theme driving the players' success.
Chase Brown (34:13): "When you have a coach that really cares for players and their families off the field, it makes you want to play harder on the field."
Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Both Justin Jefferson and Chase Brown discuss overcoming personal and professional challenges, showcasing the players' determination and mental fortitude.
Justin Jefferson (10:05): "That's the type of mood you're trying to be in to kill it on the field."
Chase Brown (14:46): "But luckily, God is great. It was kind of not exhilarating, but it was a rush."
Future Prospects: The players express confidence and optimism about their future careers, with aspirations to lead their teams to Super Bowls and continue personal growth both on and off the field.
Justin Jefferson (04:10): "My main objective was to get to the Super Bowl."
Khalil Shakir (24:58): "My ceiling is extremely high, and I feel like I'm barely scratching the surface of what I can achieve."
Final Thoughts: The "Best of Season 1" episode of Scoop City offers an insightful look into the lives and careers of some of the NFL's most promising offensive talents. Through candid conversations, Justin Jefferson, David Njoku, Khalil Shakir, and Chase Brown reveal the dedication, resilience, and teamwork that drive their success. As they navigate the challenges of professional sports, their stories inspire fans and provide a deeper understanding of what it takes to excel at the highest level of football.
Notable Final Quote:
Diana Russini (31:07): "Thank you so much for joining us on Scoop City. Good luck to you and your brothers. We hope to see you in the playoffs!"
Conclusion:
This episode of Scoop City serves as a compelling recap of Season 1, highlighting the journeys of Justin Jefferson, David Njoku, Khalil Shakir, and Chase Brown. Their narratives intertwine themes of leadership, family, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, offering listeners a rich and engaging experience that resonates both on and off the field.