Podcast Title: The McShay Show
Host/Author: The Ringer
Episode Title: What I’m Hearing: Edge Rushers Rising and Two Top-Five Shake-Ups. Plus, QB2 in Round 2?
Release Date: April 21, 2025

Introduction and Context

In this episode of The McShay Show, long-time NFL Draft and College Football Analyst Todd McShay engages in an in-depth discussion with fellow analyst Mel Kiper Jr. as they dissect the upcoming NFL Draft. Taped on Sunday night and released on April 21, 2025, the conversation delves into significant shifts in draft strategies, particularly focusing on the rise of edge rushers and unexpected changes in the top-five draft prospects. The duo also explores the intriguing possibility of selecting a backup quarterback (QB2) in the second round.

Quarterback Situation: Shador Sanders and Jackson Dart

Todd McShay (02:47):
"The quarterback situation this year is more dire than we initially thought. We’ve had confirmations that may indicate even fewer quarterbacks will be available in the first round than previously projected."

Mel Kiper Jr. (09:19):
"Taking a player like Shador Sanders without full organizational support could lead to significant turmoil. It’s crucial for the Giants to have everyone on the same page."

Key Points:

• Shador Sanders’ Draft Prospects:
  Todd reveals insights suggesting that the New York Giants are pushing to draft Shador Sanders at pick 3, despite head coach Brian Daboll’s reservations (02:47). Mel emphasizes the potential chaos if the GM and coaching staff aren’t aligned on the quarterback choice (09:19).

• Jackson Dart’s Position:
  Compared to Sanders, Jackson Dart appears to have a more secure and fitting opportunity, especially with teams like the Cleveland Browns (24:40). Todd acknowledges Jeff Daboll’s preference for Dart, highlighting his better fit within the offensive system (13:58).

• Potential for QB2 in Round 2:
  The discussion veers into whether teams might prioritize drafting a backup quarterback early, considering the uncertainty around starting QBs. Todd speculates that selecting a QB2 could become a strategy for teams aiming to secure depth at the crucial quarterback position (24:35).

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay (02:47):
"We're trying to win some games now, right? If you want to use a QB2, fine, I'll use a QB2."

Edge Rushers Rising: The Defensive Emphasis

Todd McShay (24:36):
"Edge rushers are becoming the focal point of this draft. Teams understand the paramount importance of pass rushers in today's NFL."

Mel Kiper Jr. (28:30):
"Mason Graham and other defensive talents are crucial, but they're facing tough competition from multiple teams targeting the same players."

Key Points:

• Premium Positions at Non-Premium Picks:
  Todd notes that while premium positions like quarterbacks might be devalued, defensive edge rushers remain high priority due to their game-changing potential (28:30).

• Top Edge Rushers and Team Targets:
  Players such as Abdul Carter, Jalen Walker, and Mason Graham are highlighted as top edge rushers. Teams like the New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders, and Carolina Panthers are reportedly positioning themselves to secure these talents (32:35).

• Strategic Drafting:
  The conversation underscores how teams are strategically planning to draft edge rushers without necessarily trading up, leveraging their current draft positions to maximize value (25:45).

Notable Quote:

Mel Kiper Jr. (28:30):
"There are a couple of people who question if Mason Graham is going to be a phenomenal pass rusher."

Top-Five Shake-Ups: Unexpected Changes in Projections

Todd McShay (25:07):
"Abdul Carter at pick 3 is expected, but Ashton Genti might drop to pick 6 with the Raiders, causing a ripple effect through the top five."

Mel Kiper Jr. (35:03):
"Teams are going out for different reasons, but consistently, edge rushers are taking the top spots where premium positions used to dominate."

Key Points:

• Abdul Carter as a Top Pick:
  Abdul Carter is projected as the likely pick at number 3, with expectations that the New England Patriots will opt for an offensive tackle soon after (25:07).

• Ashton Genti’s Potential Drop:
  Contrary to previous mock drafts, Ashton Genti may not go as high as pick 6, instead falling to teams like the Raiders who need defensive stands (25:07).

• Ripple Effects on Draft Order:
  The shift toward edge rushers has caused other top prospects in traditionally premium positions like quarterbacks and offensive tackles to fall further down the draft board (25:07).

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay (25:07):
"We've got a bunch of dudes that can rush the quarterback. It's the second most important thing in this national Football League. They're going to fly off the board."

Potential QB2 in Round 2: Enhancing Quarterback Depth

Todd McShay (24:36):
"Given the uncertainty around the starting quarterback spots, drafting a backup early could provide teams with much-needed depth."

Mel Kiper Jr. (34:38):
"The physical and mental demands on quarterbacks make having a reliable backup a strategic advantage."

Key Points:

• Strategic Backup Selection:
  Teams may prioritize selecting a second quarterback in the second round to ensure they have depth in their quarterback roster, reducing future risks related to injuries or performance issues (24:35).

• Long-Term Planning:
  This approach reflects a shift towards long-term planning, ensuring that teams are not solely reliant on a single quarterback, which is increasingly important in today’s high-stakes NFL environment (24:35).

• Impact on Draft Dynamics:
  The potential selection of QB2 early in the draft could alter the dynamics, as teams balance immediate needs with future-proofing their rosters (24:35).

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay (24:35):
"We might have to see one QB go in the first round and another in the second to manage our risks."

Other Key Positions and Players

Todd McShay (28:30):
"While edge rushers are the focus, we can't ignore the depth at offensive tackle, wide receiver, and other key positions."

Mel Kiper Jr. (42:24):
"Ashton Genti and Tyler Warren remain highly sought-after tight ends, while players like Caleb and Ben Johnson are expected to go in the mid to late rounds (41:14)."

Key Points:

• Offensive Tackles and Wide Receivers:
  The draft is seeing offensive tackles and wide receivers drop further down the board, allowing teams to address other needs first (25:07).

• Tight Ends and Versatile Players:
  Ashton Genti and Tyler Warren are highlighted as exceptional tight ends who could significantly impact their respective teams. Players like Caleb and Ben Johnson from Jacksonville are also in play for mid-round selections (41:14).

• Depth and Value Picks:
  The conversation emphasizes the availability of quality players in the mid to late rounds, suggesting teams have ample opportunities to secure starters without necessarily needing to gamble on top-tier prospects (22:43).

Notable Quote:

Mel Kiper Jr. (42:24):
"Ashton Genti and Tyler Warren are top tight ends that belong in the top 10."

Conclusions and Insights

Todd McShay (47:28):
"The draft is shaping up to be one of the most fascinating in recent history, with edge rushers leading the charge and traditional premium positions adapting to new demands."

Mel Kiper Jr. (47:27):
"It's going to be fun as teams navigate the unpredictability and make strategic decisions that could redefine their futures."

Key Points:

• Shift in Draft Priorities:
  The NFL Draft this year marks a significant shift towards defensive prowess, particularly edge rushers, altering the landscape of traditional draft hierarchies.

• Strategic Flexibility:
  Teams are displaying increased strategic flexibility, leveraging their draft positions to maximize value and address both immediate and long-term needs.

• Unpredictable Outcomes:
  The numerous pivot points and strategic gambits by teams promise a highly unpredictable and engaging draft, keeping fans and analysts on their toes.

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay (48:26):
"Don't be so narrow-minded in your thinking like the rest of them are right now. Pretty fascinating."

Final Thoughts

Todd McShay and Mel Kiper Jr. provide a comprehensive analysis of the NFL Draft's evolving dynamics, highlighting the rise of edge rushers and the potential for significant shifts in the top-five draft spots. Their insights into the quarterback selection strategy and the overall draft landscape offer listeners a nuanced understanding of what to expect in the upcoming draft. As the draft approaches, the excitement and strategic maneuvering by teams promise a captivating event for NFL fans.

Notable Overall Quote:

Todd McShay (48:26):
"Don't be so narrow-minded in your thinking like the rest of them are right now. Pretty fascinating."

This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and strategic analyses presented by Todd McShay and Mel Kiper Jr. in the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven’t listened to the full podcast.