Podcast Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: The Favorites - Todd McShay Talks NFL Draft
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Detailed Summary of "The Favorites - Todd McShay Talks NFL Draft"

Introduction of Todd McShay

In the episode titled "The Favorites," hosts Chad Millman and Simon Hunter welcome renowned NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay as their special guest. Recognized as one of the most respected mock drafters in the industry, McShay brings extensive experience and insights into the intricacies of the upcoming NFL Draft.

NFL Draft Predictions and Strategies

Shador Sanders vs. Jackson Dart

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the potential top quarterbacks in the draft, particularly Shador Sanders and Jackson Dart. McShay reveals a shift in his initial predictions:

"I feel more confident that Shador Sanders is not going to go in the first nine picks... I like Cleveland and Shador as a marriage in terms of what the coach is used to and what the coaches had success with at the quarterback position."
— Todd McShay [07:52]

McShay addresses the likelihood of Sanders landing with the Cleveland Browns, emphasizing the compatibility between Sanders' playing style and the team's coaching philosophy.

Team Strategies: Browns, Giants, and Saints

The conversation delves into the strategic decisions teams like the Browns, Giants, and Saints might make during the draft. McShay discusses the Browns' potential to trade up within the 10 to 20 range to secure Sanders, while also considering the Saints' interest in Jackson Dart:

"I could see Shador going somewhere in that 10 to 20 range. The team moving up, starting to feel like it might be the Giants more so, but we'll see how that plays out."
— Todd McShay [08:35]

Quarterback Position Dynamics

Chad Millman seeks clarification on McShay's stance regarding quarterbacks in the top picks:

"Do you feel more or less confident about this prediction today?"
— Chad Millman [07:52]

McShay responds by emphasizing his revised outlook on Sanders' draft position, steering away from earlier considerations of quarterbacks like Cam boards going number one.

Analysis of Player Prospects

Travis Hunter’s Versatility

A focal point of the discussion is Travis Hunter, a versatile player capable of playing both wide receiver and cornerback. Simon Hunter raises concerns about Hunter's ability to handle the rigorous demands of the NFL:

"But he's a Big 12 player, wide receiver and cornerback, and now he's gonna be the number two pick. I would love to hear your view on the Browns. Why not just take Carter, play it safe."
— Simon Hunter [15:06]

McShay defends the Browns' potential decision to draft Hunter, highlighting his exceptional ball skills and versatility:

"He's got the best ball skills of receiver I can think of in the last like decade... He's going to catch everything in his area and then the after-catch stuff and the explosiveness."
— Todd McShay [16:25]

Comparison with Other Players

McShay compares Travis Hunter with other notable quarterbacks like Brandon Whedon and Brady Quinn, discussing the Browns' historical drafting patterns and the risks associated with selecting quarterbacks over premium position players.

Mason Taylor and Other Prospects

The conversation shifts to Mason Taylor and his potential impact as a defensive lineman:

"I like Mason Taylor there. It makes a lot of sense. It's a Howie guy, but you also got Malachi Starks and Nick Eamon worry safety is a position they could address."
— Todd McShay [27:13]

McShay evaluates Taylor's prospects, suggesting that the Browns might prioritize him based on team needs and draft depth.

Betting and Fantasy Implications

Betting Odds and Advice

McShay offers betting insights, particularly favoring Travis Hunter:

"If you're just looking like you feel really good about getting the money. I would take that. I would take Carter at... what's Carter like? Minus 300."
— Todd McShay [19:37]

He advises listeners on potential bets, emphasizing the favorable odds for Hunter and Carter.

Impact on Betting Markets

Simon Hunter highlights the influence of McShay's predictions on betting markets:

"It's so the only time anything in my entire life, including like day to day chores, that anyone listens to me. So we'll go with it."
— Todd McShay [30:36]

McShay acknowledges his role in shaping betting trends and markets through his expert analysis.

Private Workouts and Information Gathering

Strategies for Reliable Information

McShay explains his approach to gathering reliable information from private workouts:

"It's just as much about the brain and the timing of the operation as it is... He's got a strong arm, stronger than I thought on tape."
— Todd McShay [17:56]

He emphasizes the importance of understanding a player's cognitive abilities and operational timing beyond physical attributes observed in public workouts.

Challenges in Information Reliability

Addressing the complexities of sourcing accurate information, McShay discusses the potential for misinformation and the "dance" involved in interpreting hints from team officials without being misled.

"There's no way to know definitively because one trade, one team picks something that you don't expect and it throws everything off."
— Todd McShay [31:15]

Conclusions and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, McShay reflects on the unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft and the myriad factors influencing team decisions. He underscores the importance of flexibility and preparedness for unforeseen draft developments.

"It's one of those, like, if the line's ridiculous, maybe you put a dollar on it... there's enough concern that... it's going to cost you a lot of money."
— Todd McShay [21:23]

McShay concludes by expressing enthusiasm for the draft process and the ongoing analysis required to navigate its complexities successfully.

Notable Quotes:

• Todd McShay [07:52]: "If you don't have a grade that's equivalent to one of those picks you have to take, you have to take a... These are premium positions. Corner, wide receiver."

• Todd McShay [16:25]: "He's going to catch everything in his area and then the after-catch stuff and the explosiveness."

• Todd McShay [19:37]: "I would take Carter at... he's not going to get better than minus 200 for number three with the Giants."

• Todd McShay [27:13]: "I like Mason Taylor there. It makes a lot of sense."

• Todd McShay [31:15]: "There's no way to know definitively because one trade, one team picks something that you don't expect and it throws everything off."

This episode provides a comprehensive look into Todd McShay's perspectives on the NFL Draft, offering valuable insights for fans, bettors, and fantasy enthusiasts alike. His expert analysis sheds light on team strategies, player potentials, and the intricate dynamics that shape draft decisions.