Get to know players in the upcoming NFL draft as well as what NFL scouts are doing during different phases of the scouting season.
The man with all the news, Neil Stratton, and I discuss the changes to NFL Front Offices so far in the hiring/firing cycle. @NFL @NFLDraft @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 2025 NFL Draft is in the books and there is no question, the NFL is the best reality TV there is. From the Jaguars bold trade up to the Shedeur Sanders fall, 32 teams got better, even though the loudest (MEL) of voices would disagree. Neil and I have a short discussion on the former CU QB, how and why QB's fell the way they did and the draft as a whole. We then get into what the coming days will look like for Rookie Mini Camps and Organized Team Activities. We give advice to agents who may still be working the phones before finally getting to the landscape of front office hiring and firing coming down the line. @NFL @NFLDraft @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Scouting the League was live on Wednesday this week as I sat down with Eric Edholm, lead draft writer for NFL.com. We discussed many, if not all of the players selected in Round 1 and where we thought Thursday night would go. Get primed for Round 2 with some great player talk. @NFL @NFLDraft @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Eric Edholm - @Eric_Edholm Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 2016 NFL was the spectacle, drama and intrigue that the NFL wants it to be every year. From 2 QB's going at the top to the now infamous Bong Mask and slide of Laremy Tunsil. A lot of really good players were taken from rounds 1 to 7 and Neil Stratton's new book, Value Picks: The Drama, Decisions and Details Behind Eight Selections in the 2016 NFL Draft, talks through 8 of them. On today's special episode, Neil and Rodrik discuss those 8 picks while going in depth on the Atlanta Falcons Draft class that included 5 starters plus 3 significant contributors from the UDFA group. A story for every pick and all that went on leading up to draft night and an eventual Super Bowl run. These are true stories from a scouting assistant who got to witness it all first hand. Stories you will not hear anywhere else. @NFL @NFLDraft @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There was a time in college football when there was no such title as the "GM". The Good Ole' Days. Now - as every program searches the NFL, NCAA and even corporate America to find theirs, the job has become more important than ever. Gaizka Crowley, now General Manager for the Arizona Wildcats, was early to the game. Neil and I discuss with Gaizka the early path to college football with a startup called XOs Digital, his time in the MAC and at UNLV, his West Coast personnel conference and so much more. Plus - go behind the curtains on NFL Draft prospects Tetairoa McMillan and Jonah Savaiinaea from someone who was with them every day of the week. @NFL @NFLDraft @ArizonaFootball @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Gaizka Crowley - @Gaizka_UofA Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Service Academies, the Ivy League and many G5 schools have unique challenges when it comes time for the spring transfer portal; having experience in all 3 of those venues makes one uniquely qualified to face the challenge. General Manager of the UConn Huskies football program, Eddie Hernon, joins Neil and Rodrik to discuss all things college football. From his rise to the status of GM to his time at places like Army, Princeton and Rutgers to his crash course education with the Cleveland Browns. How he and Head Coach Jim Mora Jr. have attacked roster building and relevance at a big time basketball school and so much more. Insight into the ever growing college GM seat you won't hear anywhere else. @NFLDraft @UConnFootball @ArmyWP_Football @PrincetonFTBL @RutgersFootball Eddie Hernon - @EJ_Hernon11 Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Getting on an elevator with Professional Wrestling Legend Triple-H is just one of those things in the life of Martin Mayhew that he can look back on and smile. Helping build rosters in Detroit, Washington, San Francisco and New York have their smiling moments as well. Neil and I sit down with recently retired veteran of the NFL, Martin Mayhew, to talk all things scouting journey. From his time as a player and stint in the XFL to his well-rounded and business rise in NFL front office football. We hear stories about some of the great men he worked with and some of the DUDES that he got to draft. Plus - Rodrik shares his feelings on the REAL NCAA tournament you should pay attention to and an update on the Scouting Community. @NFL @NFLDraft @NCAAWrestling @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Martin Mayhew - @MartinMayhew35 Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Of all the aspects of the NFL Draft, free agency and roster building that go unnoticed (and uncovered), NFL Local Days are some of the best kept secrets. How do teams decide who gets to come? What all is covered? Who runs them? So many questions - and I have the answers. As a Pro Scout in Atlanta, I ran the local days for 2 years and explain everything that an agent (or football loving junkie) could possibly want, and need, to know. Plus - Neil hits on all aspects of Inside the League and what you need to be doing if you are planning to get certified in 2025 (Sign up for test prep with Neil!!) @NFL @NFLDraft @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
An education with arguably the best HC in NFL History, a seminar in Tampa with patience and an underappreciated GM to finally sitting in the Big Chair in Tennessee. Jon Robinson once thought he would be a teacher and coach - but the right connections, the right work ethic and the right opportunities landed him at the top of the Tennessee Titans. Neil and I sit down with Jon to talk all things NFL GM. From his path through the NFL and his many mentors and cohorts; to his time in Tennessee and the way he ran his front office. Hearing the TRUTH about the draft and free agent process with a successful GM. @NFL @NFLDraft @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - TheScoutingCommunity.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Building a roster at any level goes way beyond the 11 that line up on offense and defense. Special teams, forgotten about until the big play hits, is a pivotal factor as an NFL roster cuts down to 53, and as college rosters think about 105 and maneuvering in the transfer portal. So, how exactly is it all factored in? Neil and I are joined by fast rising coach and Special Teams Coordinator at Florida Atlantic University, Tyler Schovanec, to talk all things special teams. From his start as a QB and being the guy that could operate a computer to being prepared when the opportunity came (which some would call luck). Tyler talks us through his journey, his champions, his philosophy for special teams and so much more. Plus - get a full run down of every award winner at the Inside the League Seminar last week in Indy and see who took home the hardware. @NFL @NFLDraft @Jaguars @Texans @Titans @Colts @Raiders @Chiefs @Broncos @Chargers @Patriots @Dolphins @Jets @Bills @Bengals @Steelers @Ravens @Browns @Cowboys @Eagles @Commanders @Giants @Panthers @Falcons @Buccaneers @Saints @Cardinals @Rams @Seahawks @49ers @Packers @Vikings @Lions @Bears @FAUFootball @TexasTechFootball @CaseWesternFootball @CarrolFootball @HCU Tyler Schovanec - @CoachSchov Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Live from in front of Indianapolis Convention Center Room 123 where the 2025 ITL Seminar will take place later this evening, 5:30 pm to be exact, Neil and Rodrik talk all things combine. From a new GM in Jacksonville to what teams are and are not present. Updates on events and more. Tweet live questions to @InsidetheLeague and @RightStepAdv on twitter or stop by and see us in person. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 2025 NFL Combine is just about here and with that comes the Ellison Kibler at Merrill Lynch ITL Combine Seminar Presented by SkillCorner Weds, Feb. 26, at 5:30 p.m. in Room 123 of the Indiana Convention Center as well as the Vestible ITL Symposium Presented by Mascot Alliance Friday, Feb 28, at 8:30am at the Indiana Convention Center. Both events will feature some tremendous speakers and a chance to network with those in the football industry. From Awards to deserving scouts on Wednesday to a no holds barred (an not recording allowed) discussion on revenue building/sharing and all things college football landscape - there is something for everyone. Make sure you come see Neil and Rodrik and say Hi! Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Gordon Whittaker - Merrill Lynch Vestible Parker Graham - @ParkerCMGraham Yves Batoba - @YBatoba SkillCorner Hayden Schuh - @HaydenSchuh Mascot Alliance Casey Barksdale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Super Bowl 59 was a case study in winning in the trenches as the Eagles Offensive and Defensive Lines absolutely dominated the game. That philosophy, so masterfully executed by GM Howie Roseman and crew, led to a game that seemed over in the first quarter. So we asked Former Scout and NFL Offensive Lineman all about those trenches, scouting and so much more. From his playing days in the NFL and USFL to his transition into scouting and what that took. Building the Houston Texans from scratch with David Carr and Andre Johnson to being part of the Colin Kapernick 49ers and Cam Newton Panthers. The game has changed but good people that know ball are still the best scouts. Plus - how has the spread offense changed evaluations for the OL and what is Sumer Sports. @NFL @NFLDraft @SeniorBowl @Shrine @Jaguars @Titans @Raiders @Dolphins @Colts @Giants @Jets @Browns @Patriots @Cowboys @Packers @Eagles @Chiefs @Texans @Commanders @Panthers Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Joel Patten Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Senior Bowl and East-West Shrine games are in the books and we are in February of the 2025 NFL Draft Cycle. So what's next? Neil and Rodrik Discuss all that happens in the month of February as teams move closer to the Combine, Draft and Free Agency. But first - now that Neil is off the road, we dive back into all the Head Coach, General Manager and Coordinator hires and what the sense was from the scouting world. Who is getting it right and who is stumbling through the dark? All this and so much more. @NFL @NFLDraft @SeniorBowl @Shrine @Jaguars @Titans @Raiders @Dolphins @Colts @Giants @Jets @Browns @Patriots @Cowboys @Packers Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Time in Mobile is wrapping up but players still have a chance to shine. We check in with Neil and Ric and find out who showed up this week. Plus, who does Ric think can help themselves even more during the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Catching up with Neil Stratton and Ric Serritella in Mobile - they discuss the standouts and show stealers from their time in Frisco. Who was generating buzz and are the about to be some rule changes. From there - on to day 1 practice standouts in Mobile and who are those attending most interested in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When the football schedule takes you on the road, you adjust the gameplan to bring a winning product. So today, Scouting the League brings you an update from Mobile, AL and the site of the Senior Bowl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Transfer Portal has come, not gone anywhere, and made everyone in the world of college football a little less sane. With no consistent regulation, standard of practice or governing body with the ability to keep things in check, both schools, and agents, have taken full advantage of every loophole they can find. From the heart of SEC Country, Dave Shumate joins the show to talk all things portal and college football. A quick look at Ohio State and Notre Dame leads into the SEC where the Auburn Tigers seem to be putting the right pieces together. Is there a best way to do things and is there any sense of normalcy coming. Then, on the agent side, who and how are player representatives approaching athletes, schools and the business in an effort to either help players, or sometimes just make a quick payday. That and SO much more. @NFL @NFLDraft @SeniorBowl @Shrine @Jaguars @Titans @Raiders @Dolphins @Colts @Giants @Jets @Browns @Patriots @Cowboys @Irish @Buckeyes @Packers Dave Shumate - @DaveShumateSEC Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mickey Loomis and company have enjoyed a long run of, mostly, success down in New Orleans. But the cap strategy and change at Head Coach have created a less than desirable location come coaching hire 2025. So, where do they go? With a well thought of front office and a track record to back it, we discuss all the potential options, pitfalls, hurdles and road blocks the Saints will have as they look for new leadership this cycle. From the aging roster to the comfort in the front office, Neil and I ask the questions that no one else will. Penning, Kamara, Carr and so much more. Plus - take a quick run around the NFL and all the current openings in the post Black Monday cycle. @NFL @NFLDraft @SeniorBowl @Shrine @Jaguars @Titans @Raiders @Dolphins @Colts @Giants @Jets @Browns @Patriots @Cowboys @Irish @Buckeyes @Packers Nick Underhill - @Nick_Underhill Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When Black Monday rolls around, Coaching and Front Office staffs around the NFL are ready for both the expected, and sometimes, the unexpected. With the Patriots and Jaguars quickly moving on from their Head Coach to the Titans waiting a day, the cycle is far from complete. Neil and I talk rumors from around the league on what to expect in the coming days. A power struggle in Jacksonville? Who will the Kraft's pair with their Front Office? Are the Raiders going to make a move? Plus - on site from Orlando, FL and the 2025 Hula Bowl, Neil gives us some updates on the ground. @NFL @NFLDraft @HulaBowl @CGSAllStar @Jaguars @Titans @Raiders @Dolphins @Colts @Giants @Jets @Browns @Patriots Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed In Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When it comes to college all star games, the dominance of the East/West Shrine Game and Reese's Senior Bowl are clear. But there is a game in Fort Worth, Texas that has continued to change the way all star games are run. Jose Jefferson, founder and Executive Director of the CGS joins Neil and I to talk his origin story, his road to running an all star game and how the changing landscape of the draft process have shaped the event as we know it. From his humble (yet FAST) beginning at the University of South Dakota to his time in the Arena and Indoor Football Leagues, to coaching and eventually starting the CGS. A unique path that has continued to show his willingness to work as well as his ability to adjust. Plus, we talk players to be excited about at this years game and what new horizons he will see in 2025. @CGSAllStar @MRittCGS @GC24_Football @FloridaInternational @ShrineBowl @SeniorBowl Jose Jefferson - @JoseJefferson70 Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - Succeed in Football Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It can be a tough time of the year. While scouting reports have been turned in, December Meetings have wrapped up and time at home with family is a little easier - teams across the NFL prepare to make changes as the regular season draws to a close. Neil and I discuss all the rumors, the inevitable and perhaps the surprises that we are expecting to see in the coming weeks. It is no fun talking about jobs being lost - but unfortunately it is the nature of the business. We also dive into the opening round of the 12 team College Football Playoff. What were our takeaways and what do we expect next. @Texas @PennState @OhioState @NotreDame @Indiana @SMU @Tennessee @Clemson @Georgia @BoiseState @ArizonaState @Oregon @Giants @Jets @Raiders @Titans @Jaguars @Dolphins @Falcons @Saints @Bears @Browns @Colts Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - SucceedinFootball.com Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For some, the Christmas season means things slow down; for NFL front offices, things are just heating up. Whether you are a team in the playoffs, on the bubble, or have already been eliminated, decisions about 53 and beyond are in full swing. Neil and I ask Eric Stokes all the questions he had to deal with as a college director, scout and assistant General Manager. What factors are teams weighing late in the year? What is discussed during December meetings that shape the spring scouting schedule? We also talk 4 players that will surely be called come April's NFL Draft: CB/WR Travis Hunter, OL Will Campbell, QB Jalen Milroe and TE/WR Colston Loveland. Insight into a teams process this time of year you will not hear anywhere else - Oh, and a little Nebraska Cornhuskers talk as well..... @Huskers @Alabama @CUBuffs @LSUTigers @PennState @Michigan @Oregon @Marshall @OhioState @Tennessee @BoiseState @Panthers @Commanders @Seahawks @Packers @Eagles @Ravens Eric Stokes Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - SucceedinFootball.com Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Don't get lost in the sauce. That is a mantra that Nathan Applebaum, Director of Player Personnel at James Madison, clings to as the portal madness gets underway. So how does he make it happen? Neil and I discuss just that, along with much more this week. From his journey back and forth across the country to landing on a roster tasked with replacing 97% of the production. Recruiting the portal with an eye on "Dukes" and not just players. How the modern college football staff has to operate and so much more. Plus, Nathan gives us his horse in the College Football Playoff and who should take home the Heisman Hardware. @JMUFootball @FresnoStateFootball @MichiganStateFootball @GatorFootball Nathan Applebaum - @ApplebaumNathan - applebnq@jmu.edu Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
141 days to the opening night of the 2025 NFL Draft may seem like a lifetime away, but for the thousand plus prospects whose seasons are now done, the draft process is officially started. Neil and I talk with ESPN Draft Analyst and friend of Scouting the League, Jordan Reid to talk top prospects. From Travis Hunter and Ashton Jeanty to the full slate of QB's who are vying for the top spot. Top wide receivers, running backs, offensive lineman, tight ends and defensive lineman. Who are some additional names to watch and why? Not just who goes where, but why. Draft insight you will not get anywhere else. @NFLDraft @ESPN @CUBuffs @BoiseState @UNC @Georgia @Texas @OhioState @MiamiU @LSU @Michigan @Arizona @Missouri @TexasA&M @Alabama @Giants @Jaguars @Jets @Raiders @Steelers Jordan Reid - @Jordan_Reid Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
New York, New York - a catchy song title and 2 franchises that have questions at QB and possibly in the front office. With Joe Douglas out for the Jets and rumors swirling about Joe Schoen, Neil and I dive into what led them to this spot. From draft picks, to trades, free agent signings and a shared vision between the front office, head coach and ownership, there are plenty of places you can point. Should front office staff get longer contracts? Is it time to contractually recognize directors for their role in building a team? Will scouts ever get a better bargain? This, plus College Football Playoff talk and more. @Jets @Giants @Buccaneers @Saints @Bengals @Panthers @49ers @Dolphins @Steelers @Bears @Longhorns @Buckeyes @Hurricanes @Buffs @Bulldogs @Broncos @RollTide @Mustangs @ShrineGame @SeniorBowl @EricGalko @JimNagy @NFL @NFLDraft Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The game of football is ever changing. Offenses make changes and defenses catch up, get ahead, and force the offense to one again innovate. And as the game changes, technology gives coaches, front office staffs and those across the NFL more tools in the toolbox. Neil and I sit down with Sports Analytics Writer at ESPN, Seth Walder, to discuss all things analytics. From the Down 8 test, the Down 4 test, PAT or go for 2 and when to punt or go. We talk some of the top analytics professionals across the NFL and what franchises are doing it the right way. Plus, a peek into how teams use analytics to evaluate and valuate future NFL draft picks. An episode that both the football nerds and football jocks will love. @ESPN @NFL @NFLDraft @Browns @Cowboys @Falcons @Chargers @Jaguars @Colts @Ravens @Bengals @Saints @PFF @NextGenStats Seth Walder - @SethWalder Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last time we talked with Dane Brugler, we were looking at 2023 college tape and projecting guys for the fall season. Since then, Carson Beck has fallen, Travis Hunter and Ashton Jeanty have risen, and players in the top 50 have been shuffled all over. Dane joins us to give us some insight into his updated top 50 list as talk not just about who the top guys are, but why. From Offensive Line to Pass Rushers to Corners and of course Quarterbacks. We give you many of the names to watch who still has something to prove. @NFL @NFLDraft @TheAthletic @CUBuffaloes @GeorgiaBulldogs @OhioStateBuckeyes @LSUTigers @BoiseStateBroncos @RollTide @TexasA&MAggies @UTLonghorns @MichiganWolverines @NittanyLions @Raiders @Giants @OklahomaSooners @Mountaineers @TennesseeVols @MiamiU @FansFirstSN @Panthers Dane Brugler - @DPBrugler Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Whether you like them or not, the Cowboys are America's Team. That is in large part due to owner, and essentially General Manager, Jerry Jones. Wearing both hats means criticism comes along, even more than normal. But what does a Dallas front office really look like? How does Jerry operate? And what was it like running the draft in Dallas? A veteran of 27 years with the Dallas Cowboys, Tom Ciskowski gives Neil and I some rare insight to drafting in the Star. From Larry Allen to Emmitt Smith to Troy Aikman and so many more. A peek behind the curtain of perhaps the most polarizing organization in all of sports. @Cowboys @Falcons @MiamiHurricanes @SouthernCal @NebraskaCornhuskers @Commanders @FansFirstSN @NFL @NFLDraft @JimmyJohnson @JerryJones @TroyAikman @EmmittSmith Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When it is time to start talking about NFL Draft players, it is often obvious, who has done the work, and who is a twitter scout. So, to prepare you for those water cooler conversations, Neil and I dive into all things grade scale, player comparison, stacking a board and so much more. So many philosophies, so many ways to be successful doing it, but follow this outline, and you will at least sound like you know what you are talking about. @NFLDraft @Falcons @Panthers @Seahawks @Steelers @AlabamaFootball @OhioState @Cowboys Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Life on the road for any scout is a constant stream of report writing, character digging and changes to the schedule all while trying to keep up with what is going on in your own building and with your own team. When those changes happen at the pace they did in Carolina, good luck. Michael Coe joins us to talk all things football. From his transition from playing to the SR Bowl and eventually the Northeast Area. How learning a new building was made even more difficult by changes in front office. And how understanding the game from a players side paid off. Plus, we talk about drafting Bryce Young and whether he will ever be able to find success in Carolina. Bonus: Neil Stratton gives is a little teaser of his upcoming book (his 3rd!!) all about the 2016 NFL Draft. @Panthers @SeniorBowl @Steelers @Falcons @NFL @NFLDraft @ArkansasRazorbacksFootball @AlabamaStateFootball @Saints @Chargers @Seahawks @FFSN Michael Coe - @_coesign Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Jets and owner Woody Johnson started the annual firing cycle this week, on the coaching side, but are front office names in jeopardy as well? Joe Douglas is highly respected, does he get to pick the next coach? Neil and Rodrik don't speculate on the potentials, but instead, dig into what the successful traits today's owners seem to be gravitating to. From the media element to what should be standard. Plus, Neil gives some names that should be part of the annual interview process for that GM chair. Plus, scouting visits, the the internal scouting battle Rodrik has and more. @NFL @NFLDraft @Jets @Patriots @49ers @Saints @Jaguars @Panthers @Cowboys Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The NFL Draft Bible was once one of the hottest guides for those interested in the NFL Draft. But with changes in technology, paper copies went by the wayside, so changes had to be made. Adaptability; that is what today's guest, Ric Serritella, talked about, among other things, as his journey through the football world took him all across the country, and even north of the border. From a start with the YES Network to NFL All Star games, his new iteration of the Draft Bible to the Edmonton Elks. Ric has some unique opinions and perspectives that make you think about the game from a different lens. @EdmontonElks @NFL @NFLDraft @CFL Ric Serritella Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are NCAA All-Star games going the way of the dinosaur? Just a short time ago the 3rd game in the pecking order disappeared and now, with questions at the top, the Hula Bowl may be in jeopardy as well. Dane Vandernat, former Director of Player Personnel for the NFLPA Game joins us to talk all star games, dealing with agents, some of the best and worst stories from the game and where he thinks all star games are heading. Plus, Jamarcus Russell, Derek Carr, Jason Campbell, Jon Gruden and more. His time with the Raiders was certainly full of learning. Dane talks about all a team is going through right now and where a pro department is likely focused. @Raiders @SRBowl @ShrineGame @HulaBowl @CGSAllStar @NFL @NFLPA @NFLDraft @Saints Dane Vandernat - @DVandernat Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Leading through challenges is what often separates good leaders from great leaders. Great teams have great cultures, great cultures have great leaders, and somewhere in the midst of it all, is someone who helps drive those leaders in one way or another. Whether he would ever take credit for it, Jack Easterby has been a pivotal part of some of the great franchises we see operating today. Houston, Kansas City and New England all had roles for Jack and through it all, he led with the same, steady approach that he always had. Neil and I talk with Jack about all things culture and what it truly means. @Patriots @Texans @Chiefs @NFLDraft @Gamecocks Jack Easterby - @JackEasterby Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There are many ways to construct, build, adjust and win within NFL Front Offices. Different philosophies and leaders have kept certain franchises at the top of the game year in and year out - and the Philadelphia Eagles, behind GM Howie Roseman, is certainly one of those. From his start on the salary cap side of the front office to his growing role in personnel and evaluation - navigating life with 4 different head coaches - to even being exiled for a time, just to come back and lead the team to another Super Bowl, Howie Roseman has shown why he has deserved both of his Executive of the Year awards. We talk with Fran Duffy, who is as knowledgeable as any on all things Eagles front office, in a fascinating and in-depth look at one of the most stable franchises in the NFL. @Eagles @Jets @Packers @NFL @NFLDraft @Chiefs @MarkDulgerian #NFLIPP Fran Duffy - @FDuffyNFL Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Who drives the culture? The Head Coach? General Manager? Quarterback? Or someone else? Great teams almost always have a great culture and there is always a culture driver. We discuss some of the top cultures in the game of football with someone who has seen, first hand, great cultures in the NFL. Joey Clinkscales, a long time Jet and Raider talks Chiefs, Patriots, Ravens, Brady, Belichick, Lewis, who leads and why it matters. How do scouts evaluate for culture fit on the road and why does it matter who gets paid. Plus - some wild stories from Joey as he talked scouting nuggets he got on the road. Joey Clinkscales Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Scouting for 1 of 32 NFL franchises has its advantages and intricacies; scouting the entire NCAA and thinking about fit for all 32 takes another level of dedication. NFL Draft Analyst for The Athletic Dane Brugler joins the podcast to discuss just how he does just that. From getting his start with what later became "The Beast" to finding himself saying no to his NFL Dream job (family first!). How does Dane keep up with all things draft prep while also staying up to date on scheme and philosophy for 32 NFL teams? The path Dane has taken is certainly his own, but there are some principles he stands for that certainly apply to everyone. A respected NFL draft analyst that will have the goods for football lovers no matter where you are on in scouting circles. @NFL @NFLDraft @TheAthletic @Chiefs Dane Brugler - @DPBrugler Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - InsidetheLeague.com Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - RSAFootball.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The East-West Shrine Bowl has solidified itself as one of the two premier all star games for the NFL Draft hopefuls, all while adjusting on the fly and seeking to take the game to new heights. E/W Shrine Bowl Director of Football Operations and Player Personnel Eric Galko joins the podcast to talk about all aspects of the event and what we can expect in the future. From finding new locations in Las Vegas and Frisco, to the pressure free approach he takes with athletes and agents. The life changing experiences players have the with Shriners Hospital patients and how the game will continue to evolve. Never to early to start thinking about post-season all-star games, and this primer will help you be prepared. @ShrineBowl @Shriners @OptimumScouting @NFLPA @NFL @NFLDraft Eric Galko - @EricGalko - ShrineBowl.com Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague - InsidetheLeague.com Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv - RSAFootball.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Having the opportunity to work, learn and grow under some of the most highly respected decision makers in the NFL is one thing, taking advantage of all the mentoring is another. Eric Stokes certainly did the latter and discusses it all on Scouting the League. From his days with the Nebraska Cornhuskers under legend Tom Osborne, to joining a Seattle Seahawks staff with Mike Holmgren and Ted Thompson, Eric talks about all the influences he had along the way. John Schneider, Marty Hurney, Dave Gettleman and Ted Thompson, just to name a few. What did he learn from each of them and apply it to his scouting life. We also discuss what a front office exec is doing as we approach the final week of the pre-season and all the considerations a team has when setting not just their 53, but their practice squad as well. All this and so much more. Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv @NebraskaCornhuskers @Commanders @Seahawks @Packers @Panthers @Buccaneers @Dolphins @Browns @NFLDraft Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Getting into the scouting industry has changed, just a bit, since Tom McConnaughey got his start. But the principles of the game and what it takes to evaluate remain the same. Neil and I talk with Tom about the road he took to get into the NFL and the many changes he saw along the way. From the multiple GM's he sat under to the different Head Coaches and systems he was a part of. Drafting not just one, but two, Hall of Famers in the 2001 NFL Draft and the work it took to get those picks right. If you are a scout, you WILL learn something from this episode, no matter where you are in your career. Take notes, get better, and enjoy the road. @Chargers @Jaguars @SeniorBowl Tom McConnaughey Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Starting a new season of Scouting the League with one of the most well known, for good or for bad, agents in the business. David Canter of GSE Worldwide goes unfiltered with Neil and I to talk about the industry, his start and re-start, why he does what he does and the transition to a new agency. If you know David, you know this one will some fireworks, and regardless of what area of football you work in, you will enjoy it. **Recorded on 7-4-2024 Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague David Canter - @DavidCanter Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv @NFL @NFLDraft
The Baltimore Ravens are at the forefront of scouting stability in the NFL and T.J. McCreight was lucky enough to get his start there. But the Browns, Cardinals, Colts and Eagles did things well too. We dive into all things scouting with T.J. and how his multiple stops and roles shaped his scouting and career. What makes for a successful draft process? How should scouts approach school visits? What should new (and old) agents avoid? And so much more. Now a Senior Bowl Scout, T.J. gives insight and advice that is candid, simple and should be part of everyone in football's arsenal. T.J. McCreight Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv
Roc Nation Sports changed the sport representation space when Jay-Z entered the world. After his playing days were done, philanthropy led to NFLPA certification and eventually a lead role with the Roc Nation for John Thornton. Neil and I talk with John about how he got his start in the world of representation, how he operates differently than many agents out there and how Roc Nation has continued to be at the forefront of the industry. Does he have a leg up on other agents who did not play in the NFL? What does he see coming next in the industry? This and so much more in another can't miss episode. John Thornton - @JohnThornton Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv @NFLDraft Agent Live 360
Changes at General Manager often mean changes down the line, regardless of how well you do your job. Dru Grigson experienced that in Arizona after a long and successful run with the franchise. Their loss is your gain as Dru jumps on with us to talk all things front office, scouting and the Arizona Cardinals. How did he get his start and what did he learn as he moved up the ladder? How did the Cardinals evaluate their scouts and continue to develop their people? What was special about Kyler Murray and so much more. For the Scouts out there (and everyone else too) - this is as good as it gets. Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Dru Grigson Agent Live 360 @NFL @NFLDraft
From the top of the Philadelphia Eagles front office staff to one of the top agents in the NFL - Mike McCartney is a football guy. From his start in coaching to transitioning to scouting - Mike has been around the game. His decision to balance his life and become an NFLPA Certified agent then became the next hurdle. But with clients like Kirk Cousins and Aidan Hutchinson among the many others, Mike is doing just fine with Vayner Sports. We discuss all things NFL from the transition, to the changing NCAA landscape. The Cousins/Penix situation in Atlanta to managing scout/agent/source relationships in the business. A tremendous conversation that is good no matter what bucket of the industry you fall in. Mike McCartney - @MikeMcCartney7 Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv @NFLDraft @ColoradoBuffaloes
Jordan Mailata has become a well known name across the U.S. - but humble beginnings and the International Pathway Program helped him get his start and is now opening the door for future NFL Super Stars. Mark Dulgerian, International Scout for the NFL joins us to talk all things IPP and American Football around the world. Where are they scouting, how big has American football gotten across the globe, and what are scouts looking for. Plus, we discuss how the NFL has embraced the development for players in the US and even think about where the NFL will go internationally. Shocker - we think the NFL may follow the money..... A super educational episode that will get you all you need to know about American Football all over the world. Mark Dulgerian - @MarkDulgerian Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv @NFL - @Eagles - @NFLDraft International Pathway Program
At this time in 2023 there was optimism and question surrounding #2 overall Pick CJ Stroud, first year HC DeMeco Ryans and the Houston Texans; but now, 1 year later, that are the favorite to win the division and perhaps, represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. But the road was not smooth. Multiple HC's, the Deshaun Watson situation and mediocrity on the field. We talk with Aaron Wilson of NBC affiliate KPRC and Texans beat Reporter about how Nick Caserio has come into his own as the GM, how CJ Stroud is the piece that makes it go, why retaining Bobby Slowik was so important and so much more. If you love the Texans, the AFC South, roster & franchise building and football - this will be a fun one. In-depth analysis with Aaron who knows this roster, team and franchise, inside out. Aaron Wilson - @AaronWilson_NFL Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepADV @HoustonTexans - @NFL - @NFLDraft - @Titans - @Jaguars - @Colts
It doesn't matter where you start, it is where you finish. This is true not only on the competition field but in a career as well. From commodities broker to VP of Player Personnel for one of the most successful franchises of the last 20 years, Jake Rosenberg did it his way. We dive into his start with the Eagles, what factors have to come together to get a start in the NFL and where he is now. We talk contracts, Howie Roseman, a successful front office and all the obstacles to sustained success. Plus - why the work he is doing now will be seen for years to come. Jake Rosenberg - @JakeRosenberg33 Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv @Eagles @NFL
Kalyn Kahler has paid her dues in the media world writing for the Defector, Sports Illustrated, and now The Athletic. A start under Peter King taught her that hard work and figuring it out was all part of the job. Now, she brings us some of the most unique and insightful stories from across the NFL and NCAA. From Prospect X to International Player Intrigue and more. We dive in with Kayla on decisions made by Caleb Williams and Marvin Harrison Jr. and how that may affect future combines. S2 and AIQ tests, and what is their future. And the pressure cooker the Chicago Bears will be in this year. Plus- we discuss how a media relationship with scouts can be a tenuous and sometimes forbidden affair. Must listen episode! Kalyn Kahler - @kalynkahler Neil Stratton - @InsidetheLeague Rodrik David - @RightStepAdv Agent Live 360 @ChicagoBears @NFLDraft @NFL
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