Podcast Summary: The Ryen Russillo Podcast - The Annual Todd McShay–Daniel Jeremiah NFL Draft Fest!
Introduction
In this engaging episode of The Ryen Russillo Podcast released on April 15, 2025, host Ryen Russillo delves deep into the intricacies of the upcoming NFL Draft. Joining him are esteemed NFL analysts Todd McShay and Daniel Jeremiah, both prominent voices from The Ringer. The trio explores various draft scenarios, evaluates key prospects, and discusses evolving trends in player positions, providing listeners with comprehensive insights ahead of the draft.
1. NFL Draft Overview
Ryen Russillo sets the stage for the episode by highlighting the significance of the annual Todd McShay–Daniel Jeremiah NFL Draft Fest. He emphasizes that the discussion will cover first-round scenarios, potential trades, and notable sagas like the Nico I Am Alava situation.
“We're going an hour deep. We're going to give them war room scenarios...life advice with Wargon today. So get ready.”
— Ryen Russillo [00:00]
2. Quarterback Class Analysis
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the quarterback prospects, with a particular focus on Travis and Shador Sanders.
a. Travis's Positioning
Todd McShay expresses confidence in Travis securing the second overall pick, suggesting that the draft will become more interesting from the third pick onward.
“...everything's directing and trending towards Travis at 2. I really think 3 is where the draft kind of starts and where the fun begins.”
— Todd McShay [03:00]
b. Shador Sanders and Giants’ Dilemma
Daniel Jeremiah brings up the Giants' internal debate regarding Shador Sanders, highlighting last-minute developments like private workouts and potential ownership influence on draft decisions.
“It's a little bit contentious inside the giant Straft Room, and there are some people that are pushing hard for Shador.”
— Daniel Jeremiah [04:20]
Russillo adds to the intrigue by mentioning other quarterback prospects like Jackson Dart and Jalen Milroe, pondering their fits with teams like the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints.
“If Cleveland passes on quarterback...and the Giants pass on Shador at 3, and take Abdul Carter now you've got Cleveland at 33, Giants at 34, the Saints at 40...”
— Daniel Jeremiah [04:50]
3. Offensive Tackles Evaluation
The panel shifts focus to offensive tackles, discussing the top prospects and the evolving valuation of the position.
a. Will Campbell from LSU
Todd McShay lauds Will Campbell's work ethic and suitability for high-caliber teams like New England, predicting he will be selected between the 8th and 10th picks.
“...work ethic, intangibles, everything you hear out of LSU is worthy of that pick.”
— Todd McShay [07:19]
b. Kelvin Banks Jr. and Others
Daniel Jeremiah highlights Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas as a clean prospect with strong physical attributes, despite concerns about his tape.
“I think you're going to see whether It's Campbell at 4, Banks Jr. from Texas going at like 10 or 11...”
— Daniel Jeremiah [08:00]
4. Running Backs and Position Trends
The discussion evolves to the running back position, addressing the apparent shift in their valuation despite historical devaluation trends.
a. Talent Over Trends
Daniel Jeremiah emphasizes that exceptional talent can override current positional trends, citing players like Jinty and Genty as prime candidates for early selection.
“Talent always trumps trends...this is one of the most talented groups I don't know about DJ but that I've ever evaluated from top to bottom.”
— Daniel Jeremiah [10:31]
b. Strategic Drafting
Todd McShay shares his philosophy of prioritizing running backs when teams have already secured foundational positions like offensive lines and edge rushers.
“When you get the cart before the horse... I want all of your carries to matter once I start the clock on the running back.”
— Todd McShay [12:26]
5. Edge Pass Rushers Evaluation
A comprehensive analysis of pass rushers takes center stage, with the panel examining both talent and fit within team schemes.
a. Evaluating Skills
Daniel Jeremiah discusses the importance of balance between speed and power in pass rushers, referencing Bill Belichick's scouting principles.
“The guys that can do both and threaten with both the speed, quickness and power.”
— Daniel Jeremiah [22:30]
b. Comparing Generations
Todd McShay draws parallels between current pass rushers and historical figures like Vernon Golston, debating their readiness and impact in the NFL.
“Vernon Golston would have to do a three point turn to get in your kitchen behind you.”
— Todd McShay [22:37]
6. War Room Scenarios
The trio engages in "war room" exercises, simulating draft decisions for specific teams based on available picks and team needs.
a. Cleveland Browns at 33rd Pick
With Cleveland presumably taking Abdul Carter at 33rd, Todd McShay opts for Jackson Dart, citing his physicality and fit within their division.
“I like the fact that he's rugged. I like the fact he keeps getting better and better.”
— Todd McShay [34:35]
b. Kansas City Chiefs at 31st Pick
Daniel Jeremiah and Todd McShay debate between Omari and Hampton versus Tyler Booker and other running backs, ultimately favoring an explosive running back like Hampton for Kansas City.
“Hampton's my 13th overall player, so you're talking about a ridiculous value here.”
— Todd McShay [38:20]
c. Atlanta Falcons at 9th Pick
The panel humorously navigates a hypothetical trade scenario involving Michael Penix and the enigmatic Shador Sanders, highlighting the unpredictability of draft trades.
“If he doesn't go to the Giants at 3, fall to 21... What's wrong with that?”
— Daniel Jeremiah [47:16]
7. Evolving Draft Strategies and Trends
The discussion wraps up with reflections on how drafting strategies are shifting towards securing starters rather than potential stars, as well as the importance of positional value.
“It's just as a starter's draft, not a stars draft. So you're literally, your goal was to leave this draft with three or four starters, like solid starters.”
— Todd McShay [15:02]
“This year is going to be different, man. We get two guards, Zabel and Booker... a lot of back that go in the first three rounds.”
— Daniel Jeremiah [09:41]
Conclusion
Ryen Russillo, Todd McShay, and Daniel Jeremiah provide a thorough and insightful analysis of the upcoming NFL Draft, covering key positions, player evaluations, and strategic decisions teams may face. Their collaborative discussion offers listeners a nuanced understanding of the draft's complexities, enriched with expert opinions and strategic foresight.
“Make sure you don’t miss out on any of this. Stay tuned as we continue to break down all the biggest topics in sports.”
— Ryen Russillo [Conclusion Section]
Notable Quotes:
-
“Everything's directing and trending towards Travis at 2. I really think 3 is where the draft kind of starts and where the fun begins.”
— Todd McShay [03:00] -
“Talent always trumps trends...this is one of the most talented groups I don't know about DJ but that I've ever evaluated from top to bottom.”
— Daniel Jeremiah [10:31] -
“It's just as a starter's draft, not a stars draft. So you're literally, your goal was to leave this draft with three or four starters, like solid starters.”
— Todd McShay [15:02]
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the core discussions of the podcast episode, providing a clear and structured overview for both avid listeners and newcomers alike.