Podcast Summary: The McShay Show – NFL Combine Day 3 Reactions: Nick Emmanwori’s Historic Performance and Maxwell Hairston’s Big Day. Plus, An Exclusive Interview with Louisville QB Tyler Shough

Podcast Information:

• Title: The McShay Show
• Host/Author: The Ringer
• Description: Todd McShay, a seasoned NFL Draft and College Football Analyst, delves into the intricacies of NFL talent evaluation. From tracking top draft prospects to sharing insights from NFL front offices, McShay offers listeners an inside look into the draft process. The show features mock drafts, industry conversations, and game day reactions, airing Tuesdays and Thursdays weekly, with additional Saturday game day shows.
• Episode: NFL Combine Day 3 Reactions: Nick Emmanwori’s Historic Performance and Maxwell Hairston’s Big Day. Plus, An Exclusive Interview with Louisville QB Tyler Shough.
• Release Date: March 1, 2025

1. Introduction and Setting the Stage

[01:29] Todd McShay:
Todd kicks off the episode by welcoming listeners back and highlighting the transition to Indianapolis for the NFL Combine Day 3 workouts. He extends gratitude to the production team and shares an anecdote about relocating to the Intercontinental Hotel, praising its service and suitability for the live show.

Key Quote:
“We were supposed to go to one hotel... So, we traded, we changed over. They opened up a week ago... It's a wonderful spot.” — Todd McShay [02:09]

2. Highlighting Standout Performances

a. Nick Emmanwori’s Historic Performance

[04:00] Todd McShay:
Nick Emmanwori from South Carolina delivered a breakout performance, setting records that have seldom been seen since the early '80s. McShay details Emmanwori’s impressive metrics: a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, an 11-foot-6 inch broad jump, and a 43-inch vertical jump, all extraordinary for a defensive back, especially at 6’3” and 220 pounds.

Notable Metrics:

• Height/Weight: 6’3”, 220 lbs
• 40-Yard Dash: 4.38 seconds
• Broad Jump: 11’6”
• Vertical Jump: 43 inches
• RAS Score: 10.0 (perfect)

Key Quote:
“His RAS score was a perfect 10.0... Of all the strong safeties who have ever worked out here, he has the number one RAZ score.” — Todd McShay [06:07]

b. Maxwell Hairston’s Big Day

[17:25] Todd McShay:
Maxwell Hairston, a cornerback from Kentucky, also stole the spotlight with his exceptional performance. Standing at 5’11” and 183 pounds, Hairston ran a 4.28-second 40-yard dash, boasting a 39.5-inch vertical and a 10’9” broad jump. McShay emphasizes Hairston’s versatility and ball skills, comparing his athleticism favorably against other notable players like Cam Chancellor.

Notable Metrics:

• Height/Weight: 5’11”, 183 lbs
• 40-Yard Dash: 4.28 seconds
• Vertical Jump: 39.5 inches
• Broad Jump: 10’9”

Key Quote:
“Maxwell Hairston... he just kind of stamped it. Other corners that stood out... he ranks among the top five Corners in this class.” — Todd McShay [22:33]

3. Analysis of Other Notable Performances

a. Jade Baron’s Performance

[29:17] Todd McShay:
Jade Baron, a cornerback with suboptimal measurables (5’10.5” and 29.58-inch arms), surprised analysts by running a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and a 39-inch vertical. McShay discusses how Baron’s on-field performance and tape work help mitigate his physical shortcomings, positioning him as a valuable mid-round pick with potential to develop into a starting corner.

Key Quote:
“But throw on the tape and he makes plays on the ball. So cross that concern off.” — Todd McShay [33:01]

b. Darian Porter’s Breakout Year

[35:30] Todd McShay:
Darian Porter from Iowa State showcased significant improvement, transitioning from wide receiver to cornerback. At 6’3” and 195 pounds, Porter ran a 4.30-second 40-yard dash and impressed with his athleticism and ball-handling skills. McShay highlights Porter’s potential to be a mid-round pick and a valuable asset on special teams.

Key Quote:
“Darian Porter... he had a breakout year. If you don't know Darian Porter, he's a tall, long cornerback who spent a lot of time early in his career...” — Todd McShay [35:30]

c. Upton Stout’s Potential Steal

[48:07] Todd McShay:
Upton Stout from Western Kentucky, despite shorter arms (31.5 inches) and a lean frame (5’8.5”, 181 lbs), impressed with his 4.44-second 40-yard dash and a 37.5-inch vertical. McShay advocates for Stout as a late-round steal, predicting he could develop into a reliable starter.

Key Quote:
“I think Upton Stout is going to be a steal. He's going to watch, you watch that size. He's going to be available in that fourth, fifth round range...” — Todd McShay [48:35]

d. Additional Standouts and Sleepers

McShay discusses several other players who had notable performances, including Robert Longer Beam from Rutgers with a 4.39-second dash and a 36.5-inch vertical jump, Caleb Ransom from Tulane with a 4.33-second dash and a 40-inch vertical, and Katan Crawford from Nevada with a 4.41-second dash and a 41.5-inch vertical.

Key Quotes:
“They are going to be a number three starter as a rookie... All those guys here giving focus on this event.” — Todd McShay [45:10]
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4. Exclusive Interview with Louisville QB Tyler Shough

[73:01] Todd McShay:
In a heartfelt segment, Todd interviews Tyler Shough, the Louisville quarterback, who shares his journey overcoming injuries and personal setbacks. Shough discusses breaking his collarbone and fibula, transitioning from Oregon to Texas Tech, and finally finding his stride at Louisville. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, humility, and continuous improvement.

Key Quotes:
“I started at Oregon, where I was a backup to Justin Herbert... I thought my career was over, like, twice, right. I was carted off the field...” — Tyler Shough [74:54]
“...I had to cultivate that grit and just wanted an opportunity and luckily I was able to get it.” — Tyler Shough [76:24]

Insights from Shough:

• Resilience: Shough highlights how his injuries taught him mental toughness and a deeper appreciation for his opportunities.
• Coaching Impact: He credits coaches Jeff and Brian Braum for their pivotal roles in his development, balancing passion and analytical thinking.
• Mindset: Emphasizes the importance of competing, earning his spot, and not feeling entitled to anything.
• Future Aspirations: Looking forward to the NFL Draft with gratitude, readiness to elevate himself, and contribute to any team he joins.

Key Moments:

• Shough’s recounting of his injuries and recovery process.
• Discussion on the importance of mentorship and learning from veteran quarterbacks like Justin Herbert.
• Shough’s strategies for adapting to different offensive systems and improving his game.

Key Quote:
“I feel more than anything, really mentally equipped and physically prepared to go into the NFL at this point... I want to find a way to be the best, the best guy in the room every single day.” — Tyler Shough [78:53]

5. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Todd wraps up the episode by reflecting on the standout performances from Day 3 of the NFL Combine. He underscores the evolving landscape of the draft, where exceptional tape and versatility can offset less-than-ideal physical metrics. The interview with Tyler Shough serves as an inspiring narrative of perseverance and determination, reinforcing the theme that success in the NFL is not solely determined by combine metrics but also by character and work ethic.

Final Key Quote:
“...this is awesome. I want to go out there and show what I can do and throw... I know I can do it.” — Tyler Shough [85:44]

Takeaways:

• Performance Metrics vs. Tape: Exceptional on-field performance and film can significantly enhance a player’s draft stock, even if their physical metrics aren’t perfect.
• Versatility and Instinct: Players like Nick Emmanwori and Maxwell Hairston demonstrate that versatility and football instincts are highly valued by scouts and GMs.
• Resilience: Tyler Shough’s story illustrates the importance of overcoming adversity and maintaining a strong work ethic to succeed in the NFL.
• Draft Prospects: The cornerback and safety classes are particularly intriguing, with several players emerging as potential steals and high-impact picks based on their combine performances and college tape.

Closing Remarks: Todd McShay encourages listeners to stay engaged with The McShay Show for ongoing updates and insights into the NFL Draft process. He invites fans to subscribe to The McShay Report for detailed mock drafts and exclusive content, ensuring they remain informed about the latest developments in NFL talent evaluation.

Call to Action:
“Join Todd on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week and don't miss his Saturday game day reaction shows. For more draft access, subscribe to The McShay Report at mcshay-report.beehiiv.com/subscribe.”

This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, standout player performances, and the inspiring interview with Tyler Shough from The McShay Show’s latest episode, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the content and insights shared.