Podcast Summary: The McShay Show – "Todd’s Top 150 Big Board! Risers, Fallers, Team Fits, and More. Plus, a Linebacker Deep Dive."

Release Date: April 3, 2025

Introduction and Overview

In this episode of The McShay Show, Todd McShay delves deep into his newly released Top 150 Big Board, providing comprehensive insights into the rising and falling prospects for the upcoming NFL Draft. The discussion also includes an in-depth analysis of linebackers, shedding light on their potential impact in the league.

Top 150 Rankings Unveiled

[03:00] Todd McShay
Todd announces the release of his first Top 150 rankings, marking it as a significant milestone compared to previous Top 100 or Top 32 lists. He emphasizes the extensive evaluation process that has gone into these rankings, highlighting how they've integrated recent intel from league personnel.

Notable Quote:
"We've done a top 100, we've done top 32s. We're getting deep into these evaluations, so now is the time to drop this first Top 150."
– Todd McShay [03:12]

Position Group Deep Dive: Linebackers

The core of the episode focuses on a thorough analysis of linebackers, categorizing them based on their performance metrics and potential fit within NFL teams.

Key Discussions:

• Shador Sanders’ Position Among Top Picks:
  Todd expresses his skepticism about Shador Sanders landing in the top five, a shift from previous expectations. He discusses conversations with league personnel indicating that Sanders might not secure a top-five pick as initially projected.

  Notable Quote:
  "For the first time in this entire process, I truly believe Shador Sanders is not going to be a top five pick."
  – Todd McShay [09:07]

• Analyzing Defensive Line Depth:
  Todd reviews the defensive linemen ranked from 13 to 30, discussing players like Mike Green, Shamar Stewart, and James Pierce. He highlights the consensus opinions among league insiders regarding their potential draft positions.

  Notable Quote:
  "There's a lot of defensive linemen, but I, I'll tell you what really jumped out... Tetoa McMillan at 28 is, I think, a lot lower than some people think he should be."
  – Todd McShay [06:45]

Trade Dynamics and Draft Strategies

Todd and his co-host Mensch delve into the complexities of trading up in the draft, using historical examples to illustrate the formidable costs associated with acquiring top-tier quarterbacks like Shador Sanders.

Key Discussions:

• Historical Trade Examples:
  They reference the 2018 Cleveland Browns' trade to acquire Lamar Jackson, emphasizing the substantial draft capital required to secure a franchise quarterback.

  Notable Quote:
  "They traded up to pick Lamar Jackson to move back in 2018... it was a huge jump, but it's gonna cost a lot more because they know you're trading up for a quarterback."
  – Todd McShay [29:05]

• FanDuel Draft Odds:
  Todd shares insights from FanDuel regarding the shifting odds for Sanders, indicating an increased likelihood of him being selected in the third round.

  Notable Quote:
  "FanDuel has shifted the odds... Travis has +185 for Shador at 3."
  – Todd McShay [27:57]

Linebacker Spotlight

The episode transitions into a detailed examination of linebackers, focusing on individual talents, strengths, and areas of concern.

Highlighted Players:

1. Jihad Campbell:

   • Strengths: Exceptional speed (4.52 40-yard dash), aggressive pass-rushing abilities, and competitive coverage skills.
   • Concerns: At 235 lbs, he lacks the ideal size and arm length, which may impact his effectiveness against more formidable offensive lines.

   Notable Quote:
   "He has a good feel for where to attack and how to attack... he's one of those slippery guys who closes in a flipping flash."
   – Mensch [60:36]

2. Mark Schlesinger:

   • Strengths: Outstanding tackling skills with 132 tackles last season, quick reading of plays, and impressive interception capabilities.
   • Concerns: Limited playing time as a walk-on may impact his consistency and adaptability in high-pressure NFL environments.

   Notable Quote:
   "He has the most tackles... 12 versus Tennessee, 11 versus Oregon."
   – Mensch [66:21]

3. Cody Simon:

   • Strengths: Versatile in coverage, disruptive against the run, and exhibits strong leadership qualities.
   • Concerns: Inconsistent tackling efficiency, particularly against larger running backs, which could hinder his long-term prospects.

   Notable Quote:
   "He makes it so hard for offensive linemen to square up to him by changing speeds and directions."
   – Mensch [75:27]

Comparative Analysis: Off-the-Ball Linebackers vs. Edge Rushers

Todd and Mensch discuss the evolving role of linebackers in today's NFL, comparing traditional off-the-ball linebackers with edge rushers like Jalen Walker.

Key Points:

• Versatility in Defensive Schemes:
  Off-the-ball linebackers are now expected to excel in both coverage and pass-rushing, making them more valuable in modern defensive strategies.

• Physical Attributes and Technical Skills:
  The emphasis is on linebackers with longer arms and greater agility, allowing them to navigate through offensive lines and maintain effective coverage against versatile wide receivers.

Notable Quote:
"An interior rusher who can rush the quarterback is as valuable to me as an edge rusher."
– Todd McShay [58:26]

Team Fit and Future Projections

The hosts analyze how specific linebackers might fit into various NFL teams, considering current roster needs and defensive schemes.

Key Discussions:

• Cleveland Browns' Defensive Line:
  Todd highlights the Browns' formidable pass rush with Abdul Carter and Travis Hunter, questioning how they will manage this talent in conjunction with other defensive needs.

  Notable Quote:
  "Maybe it's Mikel here? Pretty good class."
  – Todd McShay [25:04]

• Impact of Linebackers on Team Performance:
  Emphasis is placed on how acquiring top-tier linebackers can influence a team's defensive prowess and overall success in the league.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

As the episode concludes, Todd encourages listeners to subscribe to The McShay Report for full access to the Top 150 rankings and future mock drafts. He emphasizes the importance of staying informed as the NFL Draft approaches, promising more in-depth analysis and updates in upcoming episodes.

Notable Quote:
"Go get the other 120 players I can get... it's worth it."
– Todd McShay [56:07]

Conclusion

This episode of The McShay Show offers a comprehensive look into the NFL Draft landscape, focusing on Todd McShay's Top 150 rankings and providing a nuanced analysis of linebackers poised to make significant impacts in the league. Through detailed discussions and expert insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of draft strategies, player evaluations, and team needs as the countdown to the NFL Draft continues.

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