Podcast Summary: The McShay Show

Episode: NFL Combine WR & RB Reactions: Is Matthew Golden the New WR1? Plus, The Running Back Class Shows Out.
Release Date: March 2, 2025
Host: Todd McShay, The Ringer
Guests: Mel Kiper Jr.

Introduction

In this episode of The McShay Show, Todd McShay and NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. delve deep into the performances of wide receivers (WR) and running backs (RB) at the latest NFL Combine. They evaluate standout athletes, discuss their potential draft positions, and analyze how these performances might influence team strategies in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Running Back Class: A Historic Showcase

Record-Breaking Performances

Todd McShay opens the discussion by highlighting the exceptional nature of this year's running back class. The group delivered one of the fastest averages in Combine history, with an impressive 4.48 seconds in the 40-yard dash—averaging the fastest times recorded for the RB position.

"[05:57] Todd McShay: 4.48 was the average. That's the fastest in the history of the combine for the running back position."

Bashel Tutin's Dominance

Bashel Tutin from Virginia Tech stands out as a top performer. McShay praises Tutin's combination of size, strength, and speed, noting his record-setting vertical jump.

"[05:32] Todd McShay: Bashal Tutin came out and... He had a 40 and a half inch vertical which was best in class."
"[05:57] Todd McShay: ...Edges in 40. It's straight line explosiveness from him on tape and that's what we saw today."

Tutin's athletic lineage contributes to his explosive performance, though McShay points out areas for improvement, such as lateral agility and route complexity.

Omarion Hampton's Versatility

Omarion Hampton emerges as a surprise with his 4.46-second 40-yard dash, showcasing impressive explosiveness for his size (221 pounds).

"[08:16] Todd McShay: ...he ran a 4.46. Thoughts?"
"[08:16] Mel Kiper Jr.: ...he showed out. There was no disappointments there."

Hampton's athleticism suggests he could be a valuable asset in the running game and return duties, despite concerns about his build.

Other Notable RBs: Trevion Henderson and Quinton Judkins

Trevion Henderson demonstrates exceptional lower-body explosiveness with a 39.5-inch vertical and a 10-foot 8-inch broad jump, making him a prime candidate for early drafting.

"[13:43] Mel Kiper Jr.: I was wondering if you're going to say that because those are outstanding results for a running back."
"[15:56] Todd McShay: He has a 39.5-inch vertical showing that lower body explosion that you're looking for."

Quinton Judkins also impresses with his 10-foot 11-inch broad jump and 4.43-second dash, indicating high potential despite some size concerns.

Wide Receiver Class: Matthew Golden Rising

Matthew Golden as a Potential WR1

The wide receiver segment centers around Matthew Golden from Texas, who McShay considers a strong contender for the top receiver spot in the draft. Golden's 4.29-second 40-yard dash and exceptional hands make him a standout.

"[21:22] Mel Kiper Jr.: He just showed out..."
"[57:29] Mel Kiper Jr.: I think he has a chance to be a really productive receiver in the NFL."

Golden's ability to make contested catches and his sharp route-running skills position him as a versatile threat on the field. Despite concerns about his size, his performance at the Combine bolsters his draft stock significantly.

Ted McMillan and Emeka Buuka: Evaluating Potential

Ted McMillan from Arizona and Emeka Buuka from Ohio State also receive attention. McShay notes McMillan's athletic traits but points out areas needing development, such as urgency and route consistency.

"[39:27] Todd McShay: ... McMillan is a Drake London, he’s an outside ex..."
"[40:37] Mel Kiper Jr.: ... am I a little bit low on him, I should say."

Buuka, while consistent and reliable, lacks the vertical threat that Golden brings, placing him slightly behind in the immediate draft considerations.

Quarterback Performances: Mixed Reactions

Tyler Schuck's Determination

Tyler Schuck from Missouri stands out among quarterbacks with a 4.63-second 40-yard dash and impressive arm strength. McShay commends his competitive spirit and adaptability.

"[78:43] Todd McShay: ... because I'm telling you, if you go down the list of like the top 20 receivers in the league, there's a disproportionate amount. They come from the second round. Right."
"[81:40] Mel Kiper Jr.: ... He puts more zip and velocity on the ball today than I thought he would."

Jackson Dart and Brady Cook: Emerging Prospects

Jackson Dart and Brady Cook also showcase promising skills, though with varying degrees of consistency and arm strength. McShay highlights Dart's 4.63-second dash and physical presence, positioning him as a potential high draft pick.

"[83:42] Todd McShay: ... Jackson Dart try to do a cartwheel..."
"[83:15] Todd McShay: ... size and speed translate to impressive Combine numbers."

Mock Draft Implications: Team Needs and Player Fit

McShay and Kiper discuss how the stellar performances of the RB and WR classes influence team drafting strategies. Teams with pressing needs in the RB position, such as the Raiders and Dallas, may prioritize these standout athletes early in the draft.

"[07:24] Todd McShay: ... Raiders at 6 is the first spot where there is a team that has a need at running back."
"[35:06] Mel Kiper Jr.: ... wide receivers are overrepresented in the second round because of their high potential."

The discussion also touches on how versatile players like Golden and Schuck could fit into various offensive schemes, offering teams flexibility in their selections.

Conclusion

The episode underscores the exceptional talent present in this year's running back and wide receiver classes, with standout performances that could redefine draft expectations. McShay and Kiper emphasize the importance of Combine metrics in evaluating player potential, while also considering game tape and positional needs of NFL teams. As the NFL Draft approaches, these insights provide valuable foresight into how top prospects might be selected and developed in the league.

Notable Quotes:

• “This is going to be an awesome showing. Even I didn't know it was going to be like this.”
  - [20:44] Todd McShay

• “JJ Harvey is a force multiplier. He’s a leader. He pushes everyone involved.”
  - [30:25] Todd McShay

• “He could be a really good number three and there are guys in the league that believe in him.”
  - [66:18] Mel Kiper Jr.

• “The running back group... in just 54 days until the NFL draft.”
  - [04:26] Todd McShay

For more detailed analyses and mock drafts, subscribe to The McShay Report here.