NFL Draft Recap: NFC Winners & Losers + Penix Problems!

Summary:

Draft Reactions and NFC Winners & Losers 00:00

• The hosts discuss reactions to the NFL draft, including the NFC winners and losers.
• They mention the ongoing Dynasty League rookie draft and the updates in the Dynasty Pass.
• There’s excitement about the post-draft activities and the focus on analyzing the draft picks and players.

“Well, we’re coming to you with a brand new show a day early, breaking down the draft, so many reactions, lots of different players going lots of different places.”

Controversial Pick of Michael Penix Jr. 03:26

• The hosts express disbelief over the Atlanta Falcons‘ controversial pick of Michael Penik Jr. at number eight in the draft.
• They discuss potential justifications for the pick, emphasizing the high expectations placed on Penik Jr. considering his draft position.

“I have spent five days trying to figure out how it could be defended. I have… So it happened Thursday.”

Unpacking Michael Penix Jr.’s Future 07:20

• Concerns are raised regarding Michael Penik Jr.’s situation, going to a team where he may not have immediate playing opportunities.
• A comparison is made with other quarterbacks like Jordan Love, highlighting the differing paths to starting in the NFL after being drafted.
• The hosts delve into the plight of players like Penik Jr. who aspire to be franchise quarterbacks but face uncertain playing time.

“He did everything he was supposed to do to become a top 10 NFL draft pick.”

NFC Winners & Losers Discussion 08:56

• The team failed to address their need for cornerbacks in the draft, which was a crucial gap.
• The hosts announce the extension of a giveaway, including a signed jersey from Kyle Michael Pinnick’s Jr.
• Various jerseys will be given away, along with additional swag, and the deadline has been extended.
• The hosts reveal multiple jerseys were acquired, including one to be kept by Kyle.

This might be the most valuable thing we’ve ever given away.

Discussing AJ Brown‘s Extension and Outlook 11:02

• The Eagles signed AJ Brown to a lucrative three-year contract extension.
• The extension includes a substantial amount of guaranteed money totaling $84 million.
• The hosts express optimism about the dynamic trio of Devonte Smith, AJ Brown, and Jalen Hertz staying together.
• AJ Brown is now viewed favorably for dynasty leagues following the contract extension.

He belongs in that top 75 wherever you have him.

Ezekiel Elliott‘s Return and Impact 13:03

• Ezekiel Elliott has returned to the Cowboys after a stint with the Patriots.
• The hosts discuss the financial implications of the contract, including the dead cap payment for Elliott.
• Ezekiel’s performance is scrutinized, highlighting concerns about his declining abilities at almost 29 years old.
• Despite Zeke’s regression, they acknowledge he will still hold fantasy football relevance due to his reinstatement.

He’s not the same player he used to be.

Jerry Jones’ Decisions and Commentary 14:20

• The hosts critique Jerry Jones for publicly expressing his draft preferences and creating unrealistic expectations.
• Jones’ enthusiasm for prospects like John of them Brooks led to disappointing outcomes in the draft.
• They speculate on the Cowboys’ offensive strategy, emphasizing a likely heavier reliance on the passing game.
• Ezekiel Elliott‘s return is seen as an indication of the team’s focus on passing rather than running.

And then you can’t do that. What are you doing?

Quail Quirks 16:34

• Quails are peculiar birds that opt to run rather than fly, even when faced with danger, such as approaching vehicles.
• These birds seem to prefer walking and have a unique behavior of running into traffic with their young.
• Quails tend to move in groups, perhaps showing a tendency towards shared fate and risk-taking.

“They want to walk… They’re looking to die together.”

Draft Recap: NFC Winners & Losers 22:57

• The commentator felt he had a better performance this year, except for a mistake involving risky picks like Drake, May, and Jaden Daniels.
• Despite a setback with the Giants’ J.J., J.J. McCarthy joining Minnesota brought hope, especially for Justin Jefferson managers, signaling a potential positive change.
• J.J. McCarthy is viewed as a promising professional player, though his fantasy impact is uncertain at this stage.
• The Vikings’ urgent need for a quarterback solution was addressed with McCarthy’s arrival, averting a potential rebuild of the team.

J.J. McCarthy is going to be a good professional, but for fantasy, that’s very TBD.

Green Bay Packers: Marchion Lloyd Addition 24:29

• The Green Bay Packers‘ selection of Marchion Lloyd, a talented running back, offers promising depth to their already strong offense.
• Lloyd’s skill set of speed and receiving ability align well with the team’s strategies, resembling a potential fit similar to Aaron Jones.
• The move may challenge the current running back, AJ Dillon, and put pressure on Josh Jacobs to prove himself amidst the team’s rich offensive talent.

He’s got plenty of speed. He can catch the ball. He’s, you know, I could see a very Aaron Jones fit.

Detroit Lions Draft Analysis 26:47

• The Lions’ emphasis on drafting cornerbacks early indicates a focus on reinforcing their defense rather than their offense.
• The selection of massive offensive tackle Mountanue suggests a desire to fortify their front line with an imposing physical presence.
• Jamison Williams emerges as a significant winner, with the team’s confidence evident through offseason decisions and lack of wide receiver draft picks, signaling his expected increased role.

I think that shows confidence in Jamison Williams. No, I will not. They will not. Join me.

Ben Sinnott to Washington 30:09

• Ben Sennett got drafted in round two to the Washington football team.
• This move was seen as significant given his potential and the team’s need for a tight end.
• The fantasy impact of this draft capital for Sennett is promising.

He was already being called the senator for obvious reasons.

Prospects for Ben Sinnott in Washington 30:41

• Sennett, being selected in the second round, brings hope to Washington’s tight end landscape.
• Historically, top tight end picks have not always translated to success, but Sennett’s potential is intriguing.

I think it’s incredible… He wasn’t the first tight end draft because that doesn’t usually work out.

Malik Nabers’ Draft by the Giants 33:08

• Malik Neighbors’ selection by the New York Giants as the sixth overall pick in the draft is seen as a positive move.
• Neighbors provides a potential solution for the Giants’ lack of a standout wide receiver post-Beckham era.
• He is expected to have a significant role in the offense and could be a top fantasy option.

I think it is an outstanding situation for Malik neighbors. It’s going to provide a remedy to what we’ve seen in New York for quite some time now.

Impact of Darren Waller‘s Potential Retirement 34:01

• The Giants seem to be preparing for Darren Waller‘s unofficial retirement by drafting Theo Johnson in the fourth round.
• If Waller retires, this could create an opportunity for the newly drafted tight end to make an impact in the Giants’ offense.

Theo Johnson, a tight end that they drafted in the fourth round is an athletic free… For everything that Ben Synet did at the combine, Theo Johnson, these guys out of Penn State.

Cooper DeJean Rumored Breakout 36:21

• Twitter was abuzz with speculation over Cooper Dejean potentially breaking barriers in the NFL.
• While Dejean’s role may currently be as a backup, his versatility and potential make him a player to watch, especially in fantasy football.
• Will Shipley could become exceptionally relevant if an opportunity arises due to injury, showcasing his value as a quality running back.

Cooper Dejean breaking some barriers.

Will Shipley’s Fantasy Value 36:39

• Will Shipley, a versatile running back from Clemson, holds promise for fantasy relevance, especially in the event of injuries to key players like Saquon Barkley.
• Despite being a fourth-round pick, Shipley’s talent and adaptability could make him a valuable asset in the right circumstances.

Will Shipley is a quality back that can step into an offense like this.

Arizona Cardinals‘ Impressive Draft Picks 39:32

• The Arizona Cardinals made significant moves in the draft, securing promising talents like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey Benson.
• Harrison Jr., projected to be a top fantasy performer, joins an offense that could elevate his rookie season to remarkable heights.
• Trey Benson’s arrival adds depth and potential dynamism to the Cardinals’ retooled offense, hinting at a bright future for the team.

Marvin Harrison Jr. arrives. He is my wide receiver five in Dynasty Startup. I don’t blame you.

Trey Benson’s Impact on the Cardinals 41:42

• Trey Benson’s addition to the Arizona Cardinals‘ roster is met with immense excitement, with expectations high for his role as a lead running back.
• Benson’s allure in fantasy football stems from his profile aligning closely with desirable traits for a fantasy running back, positioning him favorably in the Cardinals’ evolving offense.
• The Cardinals’ aggressive approach to rebuilding their offense sets the stage for rapid improvement, signaling a potential turnaround for the team’s offensive prowess.

I was butt naked running through the streets celebrating that my RB1 had come to my team.

Arizona Cardinals Offensive Outlook 42:58

• The Cardinals have a promising offensive setup with Kyler Murray, coming off an ACL injury, and James Conner, who showed his prowess last season despite a history of missed games.
• Conner reaching 1,000 yards last year was a significant achievement given his injury-prone past.
• Despite Conner starting, Trey Benson is viewed as the future due to his high potential and skill set.
• The addition of Trey McBride at tight end and Michael Wilson at wide receiver complements the offense well alongside Greg Dorich.
• The Cardinals seem poised for a rebound in fantasy production and potentially becoming a top-half offense.
• The team’s future success hinges on developing players like Benson and approaching dynasty investments strategically.

“There is bounce back potential there for them to really step up as fantasy producers.”

Los Angeles Rams Running Back Situation 46:42

• The Rams surprised by drafting running back Blake Corum, creating competition for incumbent lead back Kieran Williams.
• While this move doesn’t spell immediate disaster for Williams, it does hint at a shift in the team’s strategy regarding the running game.
• Corum’s arrival may impact Williams’ workload, especially given Williams’ history of missed games.
• In the short term, Williams may see reduced snaps, affecting his fantasy standing, particularly in redraft formats.
• The Rams’ praise for Corum and their comparisons to Williams indicate a plan for Corum’s involvement as part of the team’s backfield strategy.
• The long-term impact is likely more pronounced in dynasty leagues, where Williams’ value may be affected by the potential emergence of Corum.

“He’s not my running back two overall anymore.”

Redraft Strategy and Player Evaluation 50:06

• Evaluating players in redraft leagues requires caution to avoid overreactions based on rookie drafts.
• Considering mid-round draft picks as valuable future prospects instead of immediate impact starters can be a prudent approach.

Redraft-wise, I don’t want to overreact.

Impact of Day Two Picks on Roster Depth 50:20

• Day two picks, even if talented, may not immediately alter the team’s dynamics but could serve as vital backups or depth pieces for the future.
• Players drafted on day two in the third round may not have a significant impact in the initial stages but could prove valuable later.

…if they’re really good, they’re really good…maybe a future option when the contracts run out.

Concerns Over Redraft Implications of Latest Draft Picks 51:48

• Drafting new players like Blake Corm may lead to uncertainty in redraft leagues, especially if they threaten the touchdown opportunities of established players like Kyren.

That’s the redraft fear because Kyren was so good at scoring touchdowns.

Evaluation of Ricky Pearsall’s Draft Impact 52:41

• The selection of Ricky Piersol by the San Francisco 49ers prompts cautious optimism due to uncertainty regarding his fantasy football potential in the team’s crowded wide receiver room.
• Comparing Piersol’s draft position to other rookies suggests a need to temper expectations based on the role he may play within the team.

The Piersol pick makes me just hold my breath.

Analysis of Isaac Guerendo’s Potential Contribution 54:46

• Isaac Guerrero’s impressive speed and size make him an intriguing addition to the team, potentially offering valuable depth behind star running back Christian McCaffrey.
• Guerrero’s skill set and physical attributes align well with the team’s requirements for a backup running back.

When you’re 220 pounds, you run 4-3-3.

Impact of Xavier Legette and Jonathon Brooks in Carolina 56:29

• The Carolina Panthers‘ draft picks Xavier Leggette and Jonathan Brooks are seen as potentially undervalued assets in rookie drafts, likely to contribute positively to the team.
• Leggette’s draft position may receive less recognition than his abilities warrant in comparison to typical first-round wide receivers.

I think Xavier Leggette and their second round pick, Jonathan Brooks, are both going to be potentially undervalued in specific rookie drafts.

NFL Draft Recap: NFC Winners & Losers

• Veteran player Adam Thielen, at 33 years old, remains with the team with unclear future prospects.
• The team made a trade for Diontae Johnson, hinting at his potential as a top target.
• A humorous opinion was shared about the team trading up one spot to secure a player for long-term sustainability due to a college athlete’s delayed breakout.
• Jonathan Brooks surprised many by being the first running back selected, indicating a significant shift in expectations for the team’s backfield.
• The outlook for Brooks is positive due to his versatility and potential as an every-down runner, especially in the passing game.
• Concerns exist regarding Brooks’ recovery timeline from an ACL injury, which could impact his immediate playing time.
• Despite potential challenges, the team’s commitment to the running game bodes well for Brooks’ fantasy prospects.

They want a three-down back who can mask whether it’s a run or a pass and they want to commit to the run. I actually love this landing spot for Jonathan Brooks. How early it was, the draft capital, the talent. The only big fear from a redraft perspective to me is simply what is his timeline coming back from the ACL?

Analysis of Draft Picks 01:03:21

• Discusses some standout names like Kool-Aid McKinstry and Bub, highlighting the uniqueness and memorability of these player names during the NFL draft.
• Mentions Spencer Rattler as another player with a cool name, contributing to the engaging and intriguing aspect of player selections.
• Raises the importance of focusing on player skills and attributes beyond just the appeal of their names to assess their potential impact on the team’s performance.

Player names like Kool-Aid McKinstry and Bub add an element of excitement and distinctiveness to the draft picks, emphasizing the uniqueness of player identities within the NFL.