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. - The McShay Show

Transcript

Todd McShay (0:00)

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Unknown Speaker (1:25)

The.

Todd McShay (1:29)

We are back, men. We are back. It is day two of workouts of the 2025 NFL combine. 55 days left until the NFL draft meant. You good?

Unknown Speaker (1:41)

I'm great, man.

Todd McShay (1:42)

All right, good. Because we got to get into this thing. We got a lot going on. We moved sets, thankfully. Finally, I want to give a special thank you to Nick and Jake, our camera folks extraordinaire who have traveled with us from California to Mobile, Alabama, back to California with all their other duties and here now in Indianapolis, they moved us over from radio row. I'm done with that. I'm done with it.

Unknown Speaker (2:09)

Different vibes.

Todd McShay (2:09)

No, we're not going to be there next year. Like, it's great and everyone can have fun with it, but like, this is, this is us, right? And I also want to give a special thanks to Tucker and to Dan, who helped run all of this, our producers extraordinaire who have been, you know, boots on the ground making all this stuff happen. And also a thank you to the Intercontinental Hotel. We stumbled upon this place. I know no one wants to hear this story, but you're gonna have to listen for 30 seconds. We stumbled upon this place. We were supposed to go to one hotel. It never runs for us. A team showed up from the NBA. They, they decided they were gonna, you know, bump us out. It was like 6:00 at night. So we're walking around, we gotta go to the bathroom. We Come into the bathroom here at this hotel, the Intercontinental. Like, this is nice. Let's see if they got rooms here. We traded, we changed over. They opened up a week ago. Folks, if you're in Indianapolis, come out, come and check this place out. It's a wonderful spot. We've had unbelievable service and they've helped us. They've been open for one week and they, they've got this beautiful room for us. And now we're going to do our show here tonight live. We push it back to 8 o'clock. Too many workouts, too much going on. We were scrambling last night. So we've made adjustments. It's a better show. It fits us better. And we just, you know, we're very thankful for everyone here, including Jade, who served us lunch today and is a wonderful woman. And it just got me thinking. It was a perfect transition to Jade Baron. Had a really good day today too. So here we go. Man, did we need fireworks. Let's just call it what it was. We're excited about it. There were some good things to talk about yesterday with the defensive line workouts, interior and the edges. And we're so excited because these classes, historically good group for interior defensive linemen, probably the best since 1992. Great edge talent. But a lot of the top players did not work out and there was just, it just didn't live up to the hype. So we needed some fireworks today and oh my gosh, did we get it. Two players to me were stole the show. First of all, Nick Emanwaurie from South Carolina, your guy. And secondly, Maxwell Hairston, the cornerback from Kentucky. We've so much to unpack and there were a whole host of other great players that worked out. But there's a lot that the trickle down effective effectiveness at the top of the board at both of the positions in the first round. This is going to get interesting now. Nikki Minwari. I got a phone call from my guy Mensch in August. We're talking about, I'm talking about, I don't know where we're going to work this year. I've interviewed with, you know, we've had conversation with nine different places. We got to figure it out, how to make it all work. And he's like, yeah, but you got to watch this safety Nick Iman worry. And I don't even think we were pronouncing it right at that point from South Carolina. And I'm like, man, fine, okay. And I popped in the tape and there's a lot to like we saw, we can get into who he is as a player. Tell me what he did tonight that absolutely. Like Indianapolis is buzzing over what just happened.

Summary

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]
“CeamAS...

[Due to character limitations, this summary continues below.]

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.