Podcast Summary: The McShay Show Episode: Mock Draft 3.0! A New Orleans Dart Throw, the Colorado-to-Cleveland Pipeline, and Todd’s Favorite Team Fits
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Host: Todd McShay
Guest: Mel Kiper Jr.
Duration: Approximately 77 minutes

1. Introduction to Mock Draft 3.0

Todd McShay introduces the episode by announcing the launch of Mock Draft 3.0, signaling an in-depth analysis of the upcoming NFL Draft. He emphasizes the evolution of their mock drafts, aiming to provide comprehensive insights without holding back information, unlike previous versions that might have required subscriptions for complete access.

[01:49] Todd McShay: "We're not going to have time to get to every single pick. And it's kind of valuable at that point because that's the final mock, but..."

He acknowledges the growing community of listeners and expresses gratitude for their support, setting a collaborative and appreciative tone for the discussion.

2. Key Draft Predictions and Team Strategies

a. Tennessee Titans and Cam Ward

Todd McShay predicts that the Tennessee Titans will secure the first overall pick by selecting Cam Ward, their starting quarterback. He reasons that by respectfully canceling a meeting with Sha'Dor Sanders, the Titans indicate their commitment to Ward, eliminating the possibility of trading out.

[07:13] Todd McShay: "Tennessee is taking Cam Ward, not trading out. And I think what got everyone's attention was people I'm talking to. The winds are shifting..."

b. Cleveland Browns’ Colorado-to-Cleveland Pipeline

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the Cleveland Browns moving up in the draft to select Travis Hunter, an elite edge rusher from Colorado. McShay and Kiper delve into Cleveland’s strategy, emphasizing their focus on solidifying their defensive line to support their quarterback, potentially Jalen Milroe.

[09:15] Todd McShay: "In Mach 2.0, Cleveland is taking Travis Hunter. I don't think that's any surprise."
[11:13] Todd McShay: "It's not just about the arms for me. I think there are some concerns on tape. I think he's a very good player..."

Mel Kiper Jr. concurs, highlighting the importance of Cleveland not passing on a blue-chip edge rusher like Abdul Carter, reinforcing the Browns’ commitment to strengthening their pass rush.

[11:21] Mel Kiper Jr.: "He should listen. He's a top... He's an outstanding player. And I get that you might be more in love with the edge rusher in terms of your needs..."

c. New York Jets and Offensive Tackle Selection

The New York Jets are projected to address their long-standing need for a robust offensive tackle by drafting Elijah Menboo. This move is portrayed as pivotal for completing the Jets’ rebuild, providing them with a cornerstone to support their offensive line.

[31:17] Todd McShay: "This would be the first time the Jets rebuild would be complete. And it has spanned the course of three general managers..."

3. Trades and Position Needs

a. Atlanta Falcons’ Offensive Line Rebuild

McShay predicts that the Falcons will trade up to select Josh Connerly, an offensive tackle, addressing their dire need to bolster their offensive line amidst tight salary cap constraints and recent signings.

[51:13] Todd McShay: "I think it's a damn good pick."

b. Minnesota Vikings’ Defensive Cornerback Acquisition

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to trade back within the first round to select Benjamin Morrison, a cornerback from Notre Dame. This pick is seen as a strategic move to fit their cover-heavy defensive schemes, enhancing their secondary with a player who excels in interceptions and zone coverage.

[74:40] Mel Kiper Jr.: "I like the corner. I'm surprised it's that name though."

4. Position Deep Dives and Player Evaluations

a. Offensive Line Importance

McShay and Kiper discuss the critical role of the offensive line in building a successful NFL team. They emphasize that despite high-profile signings, having a solid offensive line foundation is indispensable for both protecting the quarterback and facilitating the running game.

[19:18] Mel Kiper Jr.: "More offensive tackles get in the first round than you think, my man."

b. Quarterback Class Analysis

The duo critiques the current quarterback class, expressing skepticism about the depth and quality. They argue that projecting four quarterbacks in the first round may dilute the draft’s overall quality, comparing it unfavorably to previous years.

[71:53] Todd McShay: "This quarterback class sucks. This is like Kenny Pickett's year."

5. Draft Market Dynamics and Team Decisions

McShay provides insights into how teams approach the draft market, particularly how they manage private workouts and visits to evaluate potential picks without revealing intentions prematurely.

[18:50] Todd McShay: "They’ve done a lot of work on them, and they do like to bring in mid-round guys to throw people off the scent."

Kiper adds that defensive positions like safety will see significant interest, especially in competitive divisions where strategic acquisitions can shift the balance of power.

[62:20] Mel Kiper Jr.: "Safety play in that division is kind of big between Joe Burrow and his set of problems..."

6. Notable Quotes and Highlights

• Todd McShay: _"You don’t pass on a blue-chip, a tier-one guy even if the quarterback."*
  [11:21]

• Mel Kiper Jr.: _"He’s an outstanding player... incredible value to get a Mason Graham at eight overall."*
  [32:10]

• Todd McShay: _"We're not to the point of like positionless basketball, but we're getting closer."*
  [23:32]

7. Listener Engagement and Future Shows

McShay wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to subscribe to The McShay Report for exclusive mock drafts and more detailed analyses. He teases upcoming live streams and shows during draft week, promising deeper dives into team strategies and positional needs.

[44:54] Todd McShay: "We have shows coming up next week. Just stay tuned. We're on Twitter @mcshay.*

8. Concluding Thoughts and Final Predictions

The episode concludes with McShay and Kiper reiterating their key predictions and the rationale behind their mock draft choices. They emphasize the fluidity of draft day decisions and the importance of staying informed through reliable sources like their shows.

[71:32] Mel Kiper Jr.: "I'm not comparing the two. I'm not..."

[77:14] Mel Kiper Jr.: "I want you to know that I'm here for you..."

Todd McShay expresses excitement for the upcoming draft events in Los Angeles, highlighting the collaborative and dynamic nature of their analysis.

[80:59] Todd McShay: "We appreciate you being here. Today was a fun one..."

Key Takeaways

• Mock Draft 3.0 offers a comprehensive and engaging analysis of the NFL Draft, focusing on team strategies, key picks, and positional needs.

• Cleveland Browns are positioned to make significant moves by selecting Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter, strengthening their defensive line.

• New York Jets aim to complete their rebuild by drafting a top offensive tackle, Elijah Menboo, addressing a critical need for their offensive line.

• Atlanta Falcons and Minnesota Vikings are anticipated to engage in strategic trades to secure offensive and defensive talents that fit their schemes.

• The current quarterback class is viewed skeptically, with concerns about the depth and quality impacting draft decisions.

• Offensive line remains a pivotal focus for teams looking to sustain long-term success, emphasizing the importance of blue-chip offensive linemen.

• Listener engagement is encouraged through subscriptions and participation in live streams, fostering a community around draft analysis.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "We're not going to have time to get to every single pick. And it's kind of valuable at that point because that's the final mock..."
  Todd McShay [03:05]

• "Cleveland is taking Travis Hunter. I don't think that's any surprise."
  Todd McShay [07:13]

• "He should listen. He's a top... He's an outstanding player..."
  Mel Kiper Jr. [32:10]

• "This quarterback class sucks. This is like Kenny Pickett's year."
  Todd McShay [71:53]

• "Safety play in that division is kind of big between Joe Burrow and his set of problems..."
  Mel Kiper Jr. [62:20]

This episode of The McShay Show provides an in-depth and dynamic discussion on the NFL Draft, offering listeners valuable insights, strategic predictions, and a comprehensive look into team needs and possible draft outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned NFL analyst or a casual fan, McShay and Kiper deliver an engaging and informative analysis to help navigate the complexities of draft season.