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Interview Only: ESPN's Adam Schefter breaks down NFL draft and QB Shedeur Sanders

The Stephen A. Smith Show

Published: Sat Apr 26 2025

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Stephen A. Smith Show – Interview with ESPN's Adam Schefter

Episode Title: Interview Only: ESPN's Adam Schefter breaks down NFL draft and QB Shedeur Sanders
Release Date: April 26, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Guest: Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Insider

Introduction to the NFL Draft

The episode delves into the latest developments of the 2025 NFL Draft, with host Stephen A. Smith engaging in an in-depth conversation with renowned NFL insider Adam Schefter. Skipping over the initial advertisements, the discussion kicks off at [01:02] with Stephen highlighting key draft events and introduces Schefter to break down the outcomes.

Key Points:

  • Cam Ward was selected as the number one overall pick by the Tennessee Titans.
  • Jacksonville Jaguars made a significant trade with the Cleveland Browns to secure the second pick, selecting Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter.
  • The Pittsburgh Steelers remain on the lookout for a quarterback, with Shedeur Sanders still undrafted as the draft progresses into the second round.

Shedeur Sanders: Undrafted in Round One

Stephen A. Smith expresses surprise over Shedeur Sanders not being selected in the first round, prompting Schefter to provide insights.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith [01:43]: "Shador Sanders didn't even get drafted in round one. Were you surprised by that?"

Adam Schefter's Response:

Adam Schefter [01:49]: "The longer this went on, the more it seemed like this was a possibility... When the Steelers passed on him at 21, it became a reality."

Analysis:

  • Shedeur Sanders was expected to be a top-tier quarterback prospect.
  • Teams like the Giants and Saints showed hesitancy, leading to his slide.
  • The Steelers opted for defensive needs over bolstering their quarterback position, selecting Derek Carmon instead.

Jackson Dart and the Giants' Strategic Move

The conversation shifts to the Giants' acquisition of quarterback Jackson Dart, which overshadowed Shedeur Sanders' draft position.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [02:53]: "The Giants and Saints and I believe the Cleveland Browns as well, all really like Jackson Dart. So much so that I think each of those teams would have taken Jackson Dart ahead of Shedeur Sanders."

Analysis:

  • Jackson Dart was a preferred choice for multiple teams, explaining his selection over Sanders.
  • The Giants acted swiftly to secure Dart without sacrificing future draft assets, unlike the Falcons who traded future picks for their choice.
  • This strategic move by the Giants demonstrates their commitment to strengthening their quarterback roster without jeopardizing long-term team building.

Jacksonville Jaguars' Trade for Travis Hunter

One of the most talked-about trades was the Jaguars acquiring Travis Hunter from the Browns. Schefter breaks down the rationale and implications of this deal.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [07:18]: "They saw somebody that they thought could come in and play wide Receiver at a high level for them... They felt like they were getting a star player, a dynamic presence, a great personality."

Analysis:

  • Travis Hunter is lauded as a "unicorn" player, drawing comparisons to Shohei Ohtani for his versatility.
  • The Jaguars were willing to trade significant assets, including first and second-round picks, highlighting Hunter's perceived value.
  • This move signifies the Jaguars' aggressive strategy to build a competitive roster around key talents like Trevor Lawrence.

Jacksonville Jaguars and Trevor Lawrence’s Future

Stephen probes into the Jaguars' confidence in their star quarterback Trevor Lawrence amidst the organizational changes.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith [08:33]: "How are the Jacksonville Jaguars feeling about Trevor Lawrence right now, their $55 million quarterback?"

Adam Schefter's Insight:

Adam Schefter [08:38]: "They have a new head coach, Liam Cohn, who they brought in to elevate Trevor Lawrence... a new GM, James Gladstone... hoping that between the new head coach, the new GM, new assistant coaches and the changing culture, that Trevor Lawrence can turn out to be the quarterback that many thought the Jaguars were getting when they selected him with the number one overall pick."

Analysis:

  • The Jaguars have revamped their leadership with a new head coach and the youngest GM in the league, indicating a fresh strategic direction.
  • These changes aim to maximize Lawrence's potential, reflecting the organization's commitment to his development and success.

Cleveland Browns' Position and Future Picks

The Browns' decision to trade up for Travis Hunter raises questions about their future draft strategy and quarterback plans.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [10:13]: "They could certainly opt to pick two really strong players and say we're punting on quarterback in what we consider to be a weak quarterback draft class."

Analysis:

  • The Browns have secured substantial draft equity by acquiring multiple first-round picks for future years.
  • This positions them to potentially address key areas in subsequent drafts, offering flexibility in rebuilding their roster post the Deshaun Watson trade fallout.

Giants' Draft Strategy and Team Sentiment

Schefter discusses the Giants' successful maneuvering in the draft, particularly their ability to secure Jackson Dart without surrendering future first-round picks.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [11:26]: "The Giants moved up for a quarterback and the Falcons a pass rusher. So again, what they gave up in return they felt was more than worth it to get the quarterback that at least few teams wanted here."

Analysis:

  • The Giants demonstrated shrewd drafting by acquiring Jackson Dart with minimal future cost, enhancing their quarterback depth while preserving future assets.
  • This strategy positions the Giants favorably for both immediate and long-term team development.

Surprises and Historic Trades in the Draft

Schefter reflects on the unprecedented scale of some trades during the draft, comparing them to historic deals in NFL history.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [13:19]: "That trade was one of the biggest on the quad trades that we've seen in NFL history... Both teams win here because the Jaguars get a certifiable star and the Browns come away with so much draft equity."

Analysis:

  • The trade between the Jaguars and Browns stands out for its magnitude and the mutual benefits reaped by both teams.
  • Such large-scale trades are rare, drawing parallels to notable historical drafts, emphasizing the significance of this year's draft dynamics.

Biggest Winners of Round One

When asked about the top performers of the first round, Schefter remains cautious, highlighting the unpredictability of draft success.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [14:58]: "It's always going to be about quarterbacks. So really, if Cam Moore turns out to be a star, then the Titans won the draft. If he doesn't, then they failed... It's like giving a student a grade on the first day of school before they completed their first homework assignment."

Analysis:

  • Schefter emphasizes that early evaluations are tentative, as players' true impact is only seen over time.
  • Cam Moore and Jackson Dart could emerge as pivotal players, but their long-term success remains to be seen.

Prospects for Shedeur Sanders in Round Two

The discussion returns to Shedeur Sanders, examining his chances of being picked in the second round.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [15:45]: "Not expecting New Orleans, and I don't feel overly confident on Cleveland, but I don't know that for sure."

Analysis:

  • While Sanders remains a coveted talent, his placement in the second round is uncertain.
  • Teams may still recognize his potential, especially if no clear fit emerges for him, leading to his eventual selection.

Running Backs: A Resurgent Value in the Draft

In the final segment, Schefter addresses the rising appreciation for running backs, citing recent high-profile signings and draft strategies.

Notable Quote:

Adam Schefter [17:13]: "We are heading into rounds two and three in a draft where the strongest position in this draft was running back."

Analysis:

  • The draft highlights a renewed focus on running backs, with several expected to make significant impacts.
  • This trend counters previous years' undervaluation of the position, signaling a shift in team-building philosophies.

Conclusion

The episode offers a comprehensive breakdown of the 2025 NFL Draft, highlighting strategic moves, standout players, and emerging trends. Adam Schefter provides expert analysis on team decisions, player potentials, and the broader implications for the NFL landscape. As the draft progresses, the insights shared lay the groundwork for understanding the evolving dynamics of team strategies and player valuations in professional football.

Final Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith [18:02]: "When only Adam Schefter there's nobody better when it comes to the NFL. Nobody better."

Key Takeaways:

  • Jackson Dart's selection by the Giants marks a strategic win without long-term asset sacrifice.
  • Travis Hunter joins the Jaguars in a historic trade, positioning both teams advantageously.
  • Shedeur Sanders remains a highly anticipated second-round pick with uncertain prospects.
  • A renewed emphasis on running backs signifies shifting priorities in the NFL Draft.
  • Leadership changes in teams like the Jaguars reflect a commitment to revitalizing key player roles.

For more insights and detailed analysis, tune into future episodes of The Stephen A. Smith Show on iHeartPodcasts.