Podcast appearances and mentions of Jack Campbell

The Detroit Lions must phase out three-linebacker defense and scrap the 3-3 in 2026. They played 657 of 1,050 defensive snaps in 4-3 last season, 62.57 percent, and used the 3-3 front 243 times, far more than any other team. The defense improves when Detroit lives in nickel and dime with more speed on the field. Should the Detroit Lions ditch three-linebacker packages in 2026? Yes. They leaned on three linebackers far more than the rest of the NFL, and it invited speed mismatches against modern offenses in 11 personnel. As Jeff Risdon noted, the Lions were in 4-3 on 657 of 1,050 defensive snaps, 62.57 percent, with only one other team above 50 percent at 52.88. Playing bigger and slower on passing downs made the second level late to space and created exploitable coverage targets. Risdon also said the quarterback rating allowed was almost the same whether Detroit had three linebackers on the field or not, which must change with a truer nickel and dime identity. What fronts should replace the 4-3 and 3-3 for Detroit? Detroit needs a heavier dose of 4-2 nickel, selective 5-1, and DB-heavy 3-2-6. Last year's baselines set the bar for improvement, not repetition. Usage facts that demand a shift As read by Risdon from Ryan Paganetti's study: the Lions used a 4-2 front only 111 times, last in the league. They used 5-1 zero times. They led the NFL in 3-3 with 243 snaps, while the next team was at 131, another at 31, and 17 teams did not use it once. Those numbers underline how far Detroit drifted from the league's nickel norms. Moving to 4-2 and sprinkling in 5-1 and 3-2-6 puts more speed and coverage on the field and better matches today's route distributions. Why did Detroit lean so hard into three linebackers last year? Injuries in the secondary and strong linebacker play pushed them there. Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell, Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone, and Detroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes tackled well, and as Risdon emphasized, Detroit had the best missed tackle rate in football based on the data he cited. But even with quality play, a third off-ball linebacker versus spread looks concedes quickness. Think of how Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff shreds heavy linebacker looks with routes that stress the hook-curl and seams. Opponents did the same to Detroit when the Lions stayed big. Better health for Detroit Lions safety Kirby Joseph and Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch, plus a deeper secondary, should free the defense to keep an extra defensive back on the field. Will coaching changes accelerate the shift? Yes. Dan Campbell can reallocate more time to the defense because the offensive room is stronger, and that helps Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard refine personnel usage. As Jeff Risdon said, Sheppard must earn it by choosing fronts that keep speed on the field and by reserving three-linebacker looks for true run situations, not as a default. Expect to see more four- and five-man fronts paired with nickel in camp. Watch how often Detroit keeps two off-ball linebackers on the field, how Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is deployed, and how Detroit Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez or rookie depth are used situationally. Against division quarterbacks such as Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, forcing the mundane snap after snap with nickel bodies is the point. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jackcampbell #alexanzalone #derrickbarnes #kirbyjoseph #brianbranch #jaredgoff #aidanhutchinson #malcolmrodriguez #calebwilliams #chicagobears #greenbaypackers #arizonacardinals #kansascitychiefs #dancampbell #kelvinsheppard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NHL Goaltender turned Executive Coach Jack Campbell talks about his three seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs, staying connected with Freddie Andersen, his 2022 All-Star experience alongside Auston Matthews, playing with Mitch Marner Willie Nylander John Tavares AM34 Connor McDavid Leon Draisaitl, his appreciation for Kyle Dubas Jonathan Quick Bill Ranford, getting confused for that other Jack Cambell from Michigan (the pro bowl NFL linebacker), why he loves now living in Panama City Beach Florida, and how he's made the career transition to helping others as an Executive Coach! For everything Jack Campbell please visit https://www.jackcampbellcoaching.com/ TORONTO LEGENDS is hosted by Andrew Applebaum at andrew.applebaum@gmail.com All episodes available at https://www.torontolegends.ca/episodes/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to shape their vision for the 2026-27 season, and this week brought plenty to discuss. We break down the release of the Leafs' regular season schedule, highlighting key matchups, rivalry games, and stretches that could define the season.We also dive into the latest offseason storylines surrounding the roster, the organization's search for additional impact talent, and what the front office's remaining priorities could be before training camp begins.Plus, we discuss the retirement of former Maple Leafs goaltender Jack Campbell and reflect on his time in Toronto, along with the latest news, rumors, and developments surrounding the organization.Join us for a complete breakdown of another busy week in Leafs Nation, featuring analysis, opinions, and what fans should keep an eye on as the countdown to the 2026-27 NHL season continues.

Today on The Oil Stream, Hernan Salas and Joaquin Gage are back to dive into the biggest storylines surrounding the Edmonton Oilers as the offseason continues to heat up.   Check Marks or Question Marks: Hernan found something that caught his eye about the Oilers' 2026-27 defensive core... One Oilers partisan stated that the Oilers had a top-tier defensive core. Is that true? Nanso gets Gager to dissect their D-core! The Babcock Effect: Mike Babcock is back behind an NHL bench—but what kind of impact will he have? The fellas discuss how his coaching style could influence his new team, whether the game has changed since his last stop, and what expectations should be heading into the season. Jack Campbell Retires: Former Oilers netminder Jack Campbell has announced his retirement from professional hockey after last suiting up in the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the 2024-25 season. What is he up to now? What do we remember about his time in Oil Country? Bedard Signs In Chi-Town: The Blackhawks locked up Connor Bedard to a massive five-year $75M contract. How does this deal impact Macklin Celebrini's future deal? Does this change things moving forward in the NHL? Who might be the highest-paid player moving forward?   All that and plenty more on another edition of The Oil Stream, right here on Edmonton Sports Talk. The Oil Stream is presented by Boston Pizza!

It's a brand-new week on Oilersnation Everyday, and Tyler Yaremchuk and Liam Horrobin have plenty to catch up on after an unforgettable weekend.The boys kick off the show by looking back at Liam's wedding, which brought together the Oilersnation crew for an incredible day filled with great memories, plenty of laughs, and a celebration that won't soon be forgotten. Tyler and Liam will share some of their favourite stories from the weekend, recap the biggest moments from the festivities, and reflect on a special day surrounded by family and friends.After that, it's time to dive into the latest headlines from around the NHL. Connor Bedard has officially signed a massive new contract worth $15 million per season, making him one of the league's highest-paid players. Tyler and Liam will discuss what the deal means for the Chicago Blackhawks, how it could impact future superstar contracts—including Connor McDavid's—and whether Bedard is already worth that kind of investment.The boys will also react to the news that former Oilers goaltender Jack Campbell has announced his retirement from professional hockey as he begins the next chapter of his career. They'll look back on Campbell's time in Edmonton and wish him the very best in whatever comes next.Later in the show, it's time for The First Question. With training camp getting closer, Tyler and Liam will debate which five players have the best chance of skating alongside Connor McDavid this season. Who deserves the first opportunity on the top line? Which combinations could give the Oilers the most success? And who could emerge as a surprise candidate? The boys will break down all of the possibilities and hear what the live chat has to say.To wrap things up, they'll hand out their favourite betting plays courtesy of bet365.

It's a Monday edition of The Nielson Show with Hernan Salas and Dave Jamieson filling in the big shoes of Dusty and LT.Eric. The guys open the show discussing the World Cup where we saw Spain take home the championship. After that, it's Off-Season? What Off-Season? For GCL Diesel where the guys discuss Jack Campbell retiring and making the switch to being a performance coach before getting into the Oilers off season moves and what intrigues you before the start of the season. Then it's the Good, Bad & Ugly for The Seven Eighty.  

The Detroit Lions cut cornerback Terrion Arnold to eliminate a season-long distraction and build around playable depth at corner. The legal case, including a million dollar bond and interstate court travel, limited availability and focus. As Scott Bischoff said, the timing and transparency issues pointed to a commissioner's exempt-list outcome anyway. Why did the Detroit Lions cut Terrion Arnold now? Detroit acted to remove a major distraction and move forward with players who can practice and play. Cornerback Terrion Arnold, Detroit Lions, faced kidnapping and robbery charges, a million dollar bond, and repeated travel for court, which prevented full investment in football. As Scott Bischoff noted, the post-hearing timing and a lack of full transparency pushed Detroit to act, and Arnold was headed for the commissioner's exempt list regardless. Kelvin Sheppard had already said Arnold was falling behind, and Russell Brown added that if teams truly wanted Arnold, a trade, waiver claim, or quick signing would have happened. Can the Detroit Lions cornerback room hold up without Terrion Arnold? Yes, it can function with veteran competence and real competition. Cornerback Roger McCreary, Detroit Lions, profiles as the starting nickel, cornerback Rock Ya-Sin, Detroit Lions, becomes a key outside option, and cornerback DJ Reed, Detroit Lions, settles the CB1 matchups when healthy. Rookies cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Detroit Lions, and cornerback Keith Abney, Detroit Lions, compete to seize CB2 or rotational roles, with Thomas Harper and others in the mix. Russ Brown pointed out that Rock Ya-Sin posted a career-high nine pass deflections last season and allowed only 28 receptions for 274 yards, and even as a rookie he started 13 games and allowed 46 receptions. For context, Amik Robertson gave up 70 receptions, almost 900 yards and 8 touchdowns last year. Detroit does not need rookies to play every snap in September. How will Detroit's front four and defensive plan protect the secondary? Increased pressure and flexible personnel shorten coverage snaps. Edge Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit Lions, teams with defensive tackle Tylek Williams, Detroit Lions, defensive tackle Alim McNeill, Detroit Lions, and edge Dorsey Moore, Detroit Lions, to generate the heat missing last year. Expect more nickel and dime once safety Brian Branch, Detroit Lions, returns and safety Kirby Joseph, Detroit Lions, is full go. As Russell Brown said, early in the season Detroit can lean a bit more on base with linebackers Jack Campbell, Malcolm Rodriguez, Dorsey Barnes, Jimmy Rolder and Trevor Nowaski until the safety room stabilizes. Coach Kelvin Sheppard has the bodies to mix packages. What should fans expect from Drew Petzing's offense? A more assertive, gap-heavy run game that marries to play action. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, Detroit Lions, will feature duo, pin-pull and trap concepts that fit running back Isaiah Pacheco, Detroit Lions, better than heavy zone. Tackle Penei Sewell, Detroit Lions, operates on the left, while the right side grows with tackle Blake Miller, Detroit Lions, and guard Tate Ratledge, Detroit Lions, plus guard Cade Mays, Detroit Lions. Quarterback Jared Goff, Detroit Lions, benefits from defined run looks and intermediate play action. Offensive sleeper Tight end Tyler Conklin, Detroit Lions, gives Detroit a vetted third-down and red-zone option, stabilizes 12 and 13 personnel, and eases early load if tight end Sam LaPorta, Detroit Lions, is limited. Defensive sleeper Defensive tackle Skyler Gibbs Howard, Detroit Lions, as a true three-tech, uses quickness to penetrate and disrupt in camp and preseason, complementing Mekhi Wingo, Detroit Lions. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #terrionarnold #rogermccreary #rockya-sin #djreed #ennisrakestrawjr. #keithabney #aidanhutchinson #tylekwilliams #alimmcneill #brianbranch #kirbyjoseph #isaiahpacheco #jaredgoff #tylerconklin #drewpetzing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions have the top-end talent to win a championship. PFSN's Top 100 lists seven Lions, with offensive tackle Penei Sewell at No. 4, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson at 12, running back Jahmyr Gibbs at 18, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown at 20. Health, execution, and timely plays must now match that talent. How many Lions made PFSN's Top 100, and who headlines it? Seven Detroit Lions made the list, led by offensive tackle Penei Sewell at No. 4 as OT1, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson at 12, running back Jahmyr Gibbs at 18, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown at 20. That is four Lions in the top 20. Quarterback Jared Goff is No. 53 and QB10, tight end Sam LaPorta is No. 87, and linebacker Jack Campbell is No. 95 as LB4. As Jeff Risdon noted, PFN's linebacker impact score had Jack Campbell No. 1 among linebackers in 2025. PFSN also notes Sam LaPorta missed eight games in 2025, yet his 54.3 receiving yards per game was his best per-game mark since his Pro Bowl rookie season in 2023. Why is left vs right tackle value overblown? Jeff Risdon emphasized that while Penei Sewell is moving to left tackle, elite edges attack both sides. Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher T. J. Watt rarely rushes against left tackles, Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson often works over right tackles, and Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett moves around. Does star power alone win the Super Bowl? No. Team health, execution, and key plays matter more than raw star counts. The defending champion Seattle Seahawks and the Super Bowl runner-up New England Patriots were not among the most represented teams on the Top 100 list. Seattle's core callouts on PFSN included wide receiver Jackson Smith-Njigba, defensive lineman Leonard Williams, and quarterback Sam Darnold at No. 71 as QB12. They won with health and timely defense. Detroit's takeaway is clear, as Risdon said, talent is there, but game-deciding plays must follow. What do the rankings say about quarterback Jared Goff and Detroit's offense? Quarterback Jared Goff at No. 53 and QB10 confirms he is not holding the Detroit Lions back. As Jeff Risdon stated, Goff is very good at what he is asked to do. Detroit does not ask him to run RPOs or fire frequent tight-window throws, and within that structure he wins. Risdon added that if the Seattle Seahawks can win with quarterback Sam Darnold and that supporting cast, the Lions can finish the job with Jared Goff. The ranking validates Detroit's approach, provided the offense sustains health and situational precision. How do the Lions stack up against the NFC North? Detroit leads the division with seven Top 100 players. Green Bay has four, Chicago has three, and Minnesota has two, reinforcing that the Lions possess the division's deepest top-end core. Green Bay's notables include quarterback Jordan Love at No. 34 as QB8, offensive tackle Zach Tom at No. 57 as OT7, and safety Xavier McKinney at No. 67 as S4. Chicago's trio features offensive tackle Darnell Wright as the top Bear, guard Joe Thuney at No. 65 as OG3, and quarterback Caleb Williams at QB15. Minnesota's two are wide receiver Justin Jefferson at No. 16 as WR4 and edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel at No. 99 as Edge12. As Risdon concluded, Detroit's talent is real, now the execution must be too. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #peneisewell #aidanhutchinson #jahmyrgibbs #amon-rast.brown #jaredgoff #samlaporta #jackcampbell #samdarnold #leonardwilliams #jacksonsmith-njigba #jordanlove #zachtom #xaviermckinney #darnellwright #justinjefferson #pfsntop100 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ESPN has released their Top 10 list of Off Ball Linebackers and Wide Receivers. Was our favorite Commanders receiver in the mix? What about linebackers? Frankie Luvu was an All-Pro after the 2024 season, did he get recognition amid a down 2025 season? Scott Jackson and Anthony Armstrong discuss the lists and the names in this episode of BLEAV in Commanders. 00:18 ESPN Released Top 10 OLBs and Top 10 WRs 00:41 AAA's Thoughts on the WRs 2:00 Two Unranked Wideouts made the list - JSN and George Pickens 5:25 Jaxon Smith-Njigba Should be #2 5:46 Who makes the list next year? 10:10 Having continued success in the NFL 11:56 Off Ball Linebackers 12:28 Fred Warner 14:11 Roquan Smith 14:30 Carson Schwesinger 16:30 Zack Baun 17:00 Jack Campbell and Azeez Al-Shaair 18:27 Jordyn Brooks and Nick Bolton 20:50 Edgerrin Cooper and Devin Lloyd 21:50 Honorable Mention LBs - Luvu and Wager "received votes" Thanks for making it this far! LIKE to Beat Philly SUBSCRIBE to Beat Dallas SHARE to Beat New York Follow Scott | Follow Anthony | MINDSET Hat #RaiseHail Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We apologize for all the poop talk.

The Detroit Lions defense in 2025 was not bad, it was untimely. They ranked 22nd in scoring defense but finished 17th in yards allowed per game and ninth on third downs, and Pro Football Focus graded them as a top-five defense overall. The real issue was explosive plays and situational lapses at key moments. Was the Detroit Lions defense actually bad in 2025? No. The unit performed better than its reputation. As Jeff Risdon noted, the Lions were 22nd in points allowed, 17th in yards per game at 332.8, and middle of the pack at 5.4 yards per play. Crucially, they allowed a 36.9 percent third-down conversion rate, which ranked ninth, while the offense converted 38.8 percent, 19th. That disconnect fuels the perception. The defense was on the field in tough spots and failed at the worst times, which is different from being bad snap-to-snap. Which numbers explain the gap between strong grades and points allowed? Excellent. PFF's cumulative defensive grade for Detroit was 81.8, fifth overall, with a 78.5 run defense grade that ranked fourth. Tackling graded at 74.9, second behind the Green Bay Packers. The pass rush ranked fifth, and pressure rate ranked fourth, with help from Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson. Coverage graded 74.1, tenth. Raw team data backs several strengths: Detroit allowed the sixth-lowest completion rate at 61.6 percent, averaged 7.3 yards per pass allowed which ranked 23rd, and posted an 8.11 percent sack rate, eighth. Special teams graded sixth. The defense simply surrendered too many explosive plays and got burned by short fields when the offense failed on third and fourth downs. Those two factors drove points more than down-to-down quality. What must change in 2026 to turn solid metrics into stops? Cut the explosives and win the pivotal snaps. That means finishing drives with takeaways or stops on third and manageable, and protecting field position instead of gifting short fields. As Jeff Risdon theorized, using more zone coverage and replacing some base 4-3 snaps with extra defensive backs or an additional lineman instead of a linebacker can specifically help in coverage. He also noted using the punter a little more in marginal situations to avoid feeding opponents favorable field position. Turnovers and situational management Risdon's Houston analogy underscores it: clean up turnover differential and third-down execution and a defense that already grades well turns those metrics into points prevented. Do the Lions have the personnel to fix it? Yes. Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson closed strong after a slump and remains the headliner up front. Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell delivered impact against the run, and the interior pairing of Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill and Detroit Lions defensive tackle Tyleik Williams should be a strong one-two punch. Depth has improved in the secondary, though, as Jeff Risdon cautioned, safety Brian Branch and safety Kerby Joseph entering the start of the year is not optimal. Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone's role can flex within sub-packages to prioritize coverage matchups. Bottom line, as Risdon put it, the defense was unfortunate and untimely in 2025, and those are correctable issues. He's over the 10.5 win total. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #lionsdefense #nflstatistics #pff #pffranking #pffgrades #aidanhutchinson #jackcampbell #alimmcneill #tyleikwilliams #brianbranch #kirbyjoseph #alexanzalone #profootballfocus #losangelesrams #seattleseahawks #greenbaypackers #passrush Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chad Leistikow and Scott Dochterman take Legends & Listeners on the road to The Other Place in Cedar Falls for a live show featuring Detroit Lions All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell and former Hawkeye and NFL offensive lineman Ike Boettger. The guys also discuss Jamie Pollard's retirement, the future of Iowa's NIL efforts after Swarm winds down, and what it all means for Hawkeye athletics.

The boys finally get to the defensive line in their ongoing position series.  Where does it rank in the NFC North.  Plus Jason and Jacob give us their all-time favorite Detroit Lions on the DL.   The boys also share their feelings on the Terrion Arnold release.Visit us on X: @talkinggritpodJason - @Jason_TGPodJacob - @jmallittonYouTube - www.youtube.com/@TalkingGritFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559912376520Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/r/Talkinggritpodcast/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview03:18 Discussion on Jack Campbell's Ranking08:44 Terrion Arnold's Arrest and Its Implications27:18 Lions Defensive Line Analysis31:57 Defensive Line Dynamics37:58 Analyzing the Vikings' Defensive Line41:24 The Bears' Defensive Line Assessment45:28 The Packers' Defensive Line Strengths50:41 Ranking the NFC North Defensive Lines56:48 Favorite Lions Defensive Players01:00:37 Top Defensive Linemen Rankings01:08:16 Greatest of All Time: Defensive Linemen Discussion01:13:40 Upcoming Topics: Running Backs and Quarterbacks#detroitlions #NFL #football #NFCNorthresourcesNFL Top 100 List - https://www.nfl.com/news/top-100-players-2024Terrion Arnold Legal Case Details - https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2024/08/01/terrion-arnold-case-updateDetroit Lions Official Website - https://www.detroitlions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Horror Short Film Director Roundtable is one of the most important things that we did at the Portland Horror Film Festival. It provided an elevated platform for horror short filmmakers. Oftentimes, this is ground zero for original horror ideas. Unless you are a Hollywood nepo-director, short film creation is where you learn your chops. I wanted to give these creatives an opportunity to share their experiences in making movies, both good and bad, so that we can all learn a little more about the craft. Life as a short filmmaker can be an experience in the shadows. Your films are rarely seen outside of film festivals, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. This is where most creative minds hone their crafts. Take a simple concept and do it well. Do you have something scary or funny to tell? Is there an idea that has been lurking in the back of your brain that you have to give life to? A short film will give you the opportunity to learn production, editing, budgeting, and team management. It also places you in a community of people who are open to sharing their work with one another. That’s where the round table fits in. After our discussion, I told the group that, even though I wanted this discussion to be a forum for them to share their wins and losses with each other, I selfishly set up this talk so I could learn more about horror moviemaking. Nine years in on being a small horror press journalist, and I still feel like I am only scratching the surface about what a director has to do. Just how do you do it? These discussions give me more talking points and access to better questions to ask. The Portland Horror Film Festival is one of the best curated horror film festivals in the country. Not only do Gwen and Brian Callahan select some of the best horror short films for their festivals, but they also provide opportunities for short film alumni to showcase their feature films. One of the questions I asked in our roundtable discussion was, “How many of you are looking to be feature film directors?” All of them raised their hands (with the exception of Patrick Hogan, who has already directed a feature film). For these directors, here is some encouraging data. This year alone had FIVE directors who previously presented short films at either PHFF or the H.P. Lovecraft Film Festival and later had their feature films shown at these festivals. Here are the PHFF Alumni filmmakers who presented a short film and then a feature: Anthony Cousins: Short Films – “The Bloody Ballad of Squirt Reynolds” and “Every Time We Meet for Ice Cream Your Whole Fucking Face Explodes” to Feature Films – Frogman (2023) and Frogman Returns (2026) Jeff Ferrell: Short Film – “Morella” to Feature Film – The Demonatrix (2026) Levi Buchannan: Short Film – “We Said Forever” to Feature Film Sitra Achra (2026) Krsy Fox: Short Film – “What the Spell” to Feature Film – Big Baby (2026) Masaki Nishiyama: Short Film “Smahorror” to Feature Film “The Invisible Half” (2026) Zack Ogle: Short Film “We Got a Monkey’s Paw” to Feature Film – It Needs Eyes (2025) Craig Ouellette: “Str$p” to Feature Film – Straight on Til Morning (2025) Andrew Bowser: Short Film – “Little Willy” to Feature Film – Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Evil (2022) Izzy Lee: “My Monster”, “Dark Signals”, “Rehomed” to Feature Film – House of Ashes (2024) Kenichi Ugana: Short Film – “Visitors” to Feature Film – Love Will Tear Us Apart (2023) Alice Maio Mackay: Short Film – “The Serpent’s Skin” to Feature Film T-Blockers (2023) Matthew John Lawrence: Short Film “Larry Gone Demon” to Feature Film – Uncle Peckerhead (2020) Justin Harding: Short Film “Kookie” to Feature Film – Making Monsters (2019) The PHFF Horror Short Film Director Roundtable Recording: Here is the roundtable discussion. It’s all about the lessons learned. The good, the bad, and the ridiculous. My past experience doing these round tables sometimes put the filmmakers on the spot, and I didn’t want this to be a “stump the directors” exercise. I prepared them with the following questions: Apart from financing, what was the biggest challenge in making your movie? What was the most interesting thing you learned while making this film? How many of you are filmmakers as a second career? What remains a mystery to you as a filmmaker that you think might be answered by one of your peers in this discussion? What piece of advice do you have for your fellow directors? This group really got into the discussion, and had the festival not started up, we could have gone on for quite a while longer. I had a great time, and I believe they did as well. The Horror Short Film Director Roundtable Films: Blindsided Directed by P. Patrick HoganStarring Crystal LoverroPortland Horror Film Festival: Winner of the Devil’s Discord (Best Sound Design) A blind schoolteacher struggles to survive through a nightmarish night when an alien spaceship crashes and unleashes a monstrous predator. This unique horror short film features an all-low-vision cast and places the audience in the POV of a blind protagonist who is only able to hear what happens around her. Director Statements: “Blindsided is a riveting short horror film that takes a unique narrative approach, providing audiences with an immersive glimpse into the harrowing experience of Maria, a blind woman confronting the most terrifying ordeal of her life. The horror remains unseen, both to her and the audience, heightening the suspense and reminding us that sometimes, the most terrifying things are the ones we don’t see coming… This is an innovative short film that ventures into uncharted territory within the horror genre. The narrative unfolds in a tranquil neighborhood, abruptly disrupted by a crashing alien spacecraft and the horrifying monster it unleashes into the night. However, what sets this film apart is the unique perspective from which the story is told – the POV of Maria, a blind schoolteacher living alone. Maria’s desperate struggle to evade the otherworldly predator, guided solely by what she hears, will provide an experience unlike any other horror short. Additionally, to promote diversity and inclusivity, in conjunction with our Disability Authenticity Consultant Vanni Le and Casting Director Danielle Pretsfelder Demchick, all the characters in the film are played by low-vision actors, placing the spotlight on the often-overlooked talent within the low-vision community. We are very proud of Blindsided and look forward to enjoying it in theaters with an audience who doesn’t know what they are about to experience.” Scullion Written and Directed by Trevor GracianoStarring: Whitney Garner as “Samantha”, Cody Parr as “Greg”, and Jim Close as “The Maid” A playful couple test their household chore habits and unknowingly summon a vengeful presence. Director Statements: “We all carry habits inherited from our parents into adulthood. I grew up in a religious household where some of those habits were helpful, but many were not—and they've lingered in ways I don't welcome. Some habits fade with time, while others remain, quietly shaping us in the background. This film explores the struggle to break free from those ingrained patterns, and the imaginative consequences of what happens when they refuse to let go. *It's really just about how to load the communal dishwasher correctly.” Worst Thing You’ve Ever Done Directed by PJ GermainWritten by Autumn Palen and PJ GermainStarring: Brady Gentry, Benjamin Nowak, Bix Krieger, Charlie N. Townsend, Cailyn Rice, Ethan Ahn, Emma Smith Watts, and Erin Rae Kykendall HIGH SCHOOL REALLY SUCKS… and no one knows that better than best friends Aaron and Keith. So when they set out to crash the last graduation party of the summer, emotions fly high, and the culture clash of teenagers finds them playing a simple game that has dire consequences. Director’s Statement: “Before he passed, screenwriter Gil Dennis told me during my time at AFI, “Write what hurts.” That idea has stayed with me; it's the compass I use when choosing the stories I want to tell. When I first read Autumn Palen's original draft of Worst Thing You've Ever Done, it hurt. It transported me back to moments in my own adolescence; memories filled with shame, ridicule, and isolation. But what floored me was its third-act twist. It was something I'd never felt so viscerally in a short script. I knew I had to direct it. What began as a contained character piece evolved into something more personal. I rewrote the script to reflect my own lived experiences, with every character, every event drawn from real moments that left a mark. I wanted to take a character that I felt so intertwined with, and make him someone that the audience would really relate to before reaching the moment where everything changes; the blood-drenched punchline to the twisted joke these high school kids played on each other. I set it during the 90’s, as it was a period of transition for me as an 80’s kid, being on the cusp of the old and new world. I needed the film to be an exploration of adolescent loneliness which dealt with the complexity of the friendships and social hierarchies that often defined who we were at that fragile age. We weren’t quite kids anymore, but we weren’t adults yet either, so how did we approach the consequences of reckless behavior? My team and I knew that casting would make or break the film. To capture that truth, casting was everything. I reviewed over 6,000 submissions, narrowing it down to a callback of who I thought could embody the characters. I needed authenticity, so at that callback, I ditched the script and asked actors, in character, to describe moments like first dates or getting asked to prom. It revealed who leaped from the page and became real. A week before we were to start shooting, my original cinematographer had to back out due to a conflict with the TV series he was currently shooting, and months of planning began to crumble. In the days leading up to whether or not we were going to cancel the project entirely, my long-time collaborator and cinematographer Jeff Billings took on the task. We shot the film over 3 tireless days, and as any director knows, you plan as much as you can; however, the plan eventually goes out the window. So I played a game of pivoting and being malleable myself in order to get what we needed to tell the story. The film is a testament to all the parts working together for a singular goal, and my hope is that when that first music cue drops, the audience is strapped in and ready to ride the roller coaster to that final frame.” https://vimeo.com/1071562836/377ba7d361?fl=pl&fe=cm Cat and Mouse Written and Directed by Brady CatesStarring: Halima Kamara as “Michelle”, Collan Simmons as “Felix, and Ron LaprechtEdited by Luke Oleen Junk, and Hayley Frederick Michelle is caught in a killer’s sadistic and carefully orchestrated game. With danger closing in at every turn, Michelle must outwit and outlast her relentless pursuer. But as the night goes on, unsettling clues reveal that all may not be what it seems. This time, it's the mouse's turn to catch the cat. My Severed Arm Written and Directed by Casey de FremeryStarring: Olivia Rose Prince as “Sidney”, Ryan Romine as “Mason”, and Julia Linger as “Commercial Model”Portland Horror Film Festival: Funny Bone Award for Exceptional Horror Comedy A woman tries to escape a serial killer using DIY videos, but the internet won't stop trying to sell her things first. Director’s Statement: “My Severed Arm is a horror-comedy about a “final girl” who, after fleeing into a cabin in the woods, discovers that her greatest threat isn't the machete-wielding slasher outside—it's the barrage of unskippable ads and paywalls blocking her access to life-saving information. Trapped, bleeding, and desperate to repair the tools around her, she turns to YouTube—but instead of help, she's ambushed by holographic tutorials and polished commercial spokespeople invading the cabin like digital ghosts. The film began with a thought I couldn't shake: what if you had to listen to ads when calling 911? It was a joke at first, but one that felt eerily plausible five minutes into the future. I've learned so many practical things through platforms like YouTube, but over time, that access has been buried beneath monetization schemes, misinformation, and endless self-promotional detours. This story is my response to that frustration—exaggerated into a literal life-or-death scenario. Stylistically, I wanted to evoke the stark, grim energy of Evil Dead or Cabin in the Woods, but undercut it with the absurdity of consumer culture leaking into every moment. That blend of horror and comedy, physical space and digital intrusion, is what drives the tone. At its core, My Severed Arm is about survival—both in the horror-movie and digital sense. It's about what happens when urgency meets algorithm, when access to knowledge is shaped by incentive structures that don't care if you bleed out. The film asks: what good is information if it's hidden behind paywalls, pop-ups, and promo codes? But more than anything, I want the audience to laugh, cringe, and feel that creeping recognition that this isn't the future – it's the now.” Into The Stand Directed by Mackenzie Hamilton and Taylor FuchsWritten by Mackenzie HamiltonStarring: Sarah Rich as “Quinn”, Ariana Raygoza as “Rosa”, and Nick Dietrich Tree planters Quinn and Rosa return to camp for another summer in the wilderness. Rosa is newly sober, and Quinn is quietly anxious about how she'll handle the camp's hard-partying culture. At the welcome-back party, Rosa is tempted to drink, prompting Quinn to intervene. Shaken, Rosa heads into the forest to clear her head, but doesn't come back. When Quinn goes after her, she's met with eerie signs: strange noises, a mangled deer, and an odd light deep in the woods. As the forest closes in, Quinn questions if there is something else out there. Director’s Statement: The woods have always haunted me. Growing up in rural Vancouver Island, I would often cut through forest trails to reach friends’ houses. When it was night, we would meet in the middle of the trail to keep each other safe. Thankfully, we always found each other, but I frequently wondered what if we didn't? What if something else was out there, waiting in the darkness of the woods? Into the Stand is inspired by the many times I scared myself on those trails, letting my imagination run wild. Now that I'm older, my fears are centered around more tangible things, like navigating how to let go of people you love when you can't control what they're going through. This story is deeply informed by themes of sobriety, codependency, and how the urge to help someone can sometimes lead you somewhere dark. Ultimately, Into the Stand is a fun horror made in the community I grew up in with friends who helped bring it to life. My husband and I co-directed this short film, transforming the woods on my parents' farm into a tree-planting camp, and had a blast turning a familiar place into something eerie and cinematic. It's a scary film that is personal and full of heart, and I'm overjoyed to be telling stories in the places that shaped me. –Mackenzie Hamilton and Taylor Fuchs Nurture Written and Directed by Nick SnyderProduced by Sam SnyderStarring: Travis Bilenski as “Ren, and Kailey Rhodes as “Rose”Portland Horror Film Festival: Winner – Goule D’or Best Short On a remote Oregon farm, a couple grieving from a miscarriage finds hope in a mysterious flower. But as it heals her, the flower takes root in him. Nurture is a dialogue-free folk-horror fable about love, grief, and the consequences of taking too much from nature. Director’s Statement: NURTURE marks my return to narrative filmmaking after years of honing my craft in visual effects, motion design, and commercial work. Inspired by the Pacific Northwest and the quiet mythology of its forests, this dialogue-free folk horror short explores grief through the lens of a nature curse. Where grief deepens love and a curse demands sacrifice, NURTURE examines the dangerous hope that something broken can be restored without cost. Other Notable Horror Shorts from the Festival: There were 48 short films shown at the Festival, selected from over 500 submissions. Here are a few notable and favorite films that were also showing at the festival. Famous Directed by Rosita Lama MuvdiWritten by Jordan MonaghanStarring Jordan Monaghan “A young woman desperate for social media fame exploits her father's death to go viral. But the volatile world of internet stardom pushes her to the edge.” Punchy and poignant. Famous taps into the darkest desires of influencers desperate to get likes. Just how far will you go for a few more “likes and subscribes”? Jordan Monaghan chases likes the wrong way in “Famous” (2026) Favela Amarela (Brazil) Written and Directed by Nicolas Lobato and Tiago TuchuStarring Richard Abelha, Giselle Batista, and Sai “A student from the favelas of Rio de Janeiro joins the local drug militia to pay for college and uncovers an NGO linked to powerful politicians that hides dark rituals devoted to the King in Yellow.” I won’t be surprised if this stunning short film also plays at the H.P. Lovecraft Film Festival. It is saturated in Brazilian culture, mixed with a heavy application of Cosmic Horror. Favela Amarela (2026) Wall Udder Written and Directed by Alexandra HaydenStarring Kevin Grady, Sawyer Fuller, and Bries Vannon “A dissatisfied woman confronts repressed feelings of malaise after her partner comes home smelling like milk.” Hysterically gag-inducingly funny! There is a double-punchline gag that brought the house down. Part of the Shorts Gone Wild block at PHFF, where the festival screens the zaniest submitted shorts. This did not disappoint. Ewwww! Who wants some milk? “Wall Udder” (2026) Tooth-Hurty! Directed by Jude MadonnaWritten by Katie SmallStarring Katie Small, Jude Madonna, Brook Hogan, and Tommy HardenPortland Horror Film Festival Winner: Abby Normal Award: For the exceptionally weird and disturbing “Lucy is a people-pleasing writer-photographer whose dream of being an artist remains just out of reach. A comment from her boyfriend about her teeth triggers Lucy to make an appointment for a dental checkup for the first time in years with the mysterious yet heavily advertised Big Smiles Dentistry.” Super clever! There should be more horror movies about trips to the dentist. This made my toes curl and had me in stitches, as well. Say Ahhh! Katie Small in “Tooth-Hurty!” (2026) CHÄIR Directed by Chris McInroyWritten by Chris McInroy and Carlos La RottaStarring Carlos LaRotta, Kim Lowery, and Chloe McInroy “Carl just wanted to sit down. The chair had other plans.” I am always a fan of Chris McInroy. He and Carlos do a crazy short film every year. I am in awe of how these guys make deadpan, silly, and super-gory original content. It won’t be long before they release a greatest-hits compilation, and I will be in line to buy it. This spoof on Ikea furniture assembly is a tribute to all of us who have struggled to assemble the Scandinavian furniture at home. Carlos LaRotta contemplates his struggles putting a chair together in “CHÄIR” (2026) The Bones Exist Directed by Kelsey Bollig and Matthew DuVallWritten by Matthew DuVallStarring: Alex Pena as “Manny”, Siya Maleki as “Diego”, Jack Campbell as “Don Rob”, Michael Manzako as “The Boy”, and Alex Bankler as the Utah Raptor.Portland Horror Film Festival Winner: Tompe L’oiel Award for Best Special Effects In the unforgiving wilderness of 1850s Alta California, a dwindling group of gold prospectors encounters a feral boy who forces the men to confront the horrors lurking in the woods and the sins of their past. This combines two of my favorite genres: Dinosaurs and Westerns. Perhaps not done since The Valley of Gwanji, The Bones Exists shows plenty of raptors hunting cowboys and does so convincingly. Bonus points for showing the most current understanding of raptors as feathered dinos. Munch Munch! “The Bones Exist” (2026) Flush (France) Written and Directed by Raphaël TreinerStarring Eléonore Gurrey as “Marianne” and Christophe Ntakabenura as “Ben” Abominable plumbing and violent deaths. MARIANNE, extremely pregnant, and BEN, a plumber and one-night stand, team up to survive an epic night and face the monsters of a building beset by an unknown evil. I am a sucker for the Trapped in a Bathroom trope, even going so far as to host a Crypticon horror panel on the topic. This film goes to the top (plumbing) shelf. This is Cosmic horror that brings all the icky, goopy, nasty elements you might expect from this theme is on full display. To think that an effective little romance element managed to sneak into the plot, and you have something unusually effective. I love it when the French go weird. Eléonore Gurrey and Christophe Ntakabenura are unlikely allies in “Flush” (2026)

Derrick Barnes spoke with Detroit Lions NFL reporter/podcaster John Maakaron about his preparation for the 2026 season, impact of Alex Anzalone when he was on the team, becoming a leader in his sixth NFL season! 

This week host James Weaver is joined by the full R&D department as Bryce Rossler, Alex Vigderman, and CEO Matt Manocherian wrap up the Scouts vs Stats series with the Top 10 Defensive Players in the NFL. At the start, they address the two league-altering trades that happened earlier this week involving AJ Brown, Myles Garrett, and Jared Verse. The group debates some of the top names like TJ Watt, Micah Parsons, Dexter Lawrence, Kyle Hamilton, and Pat Surtain. They also touch on some surprise mentions like Jordyn Brooks, Fred Warner, and Jack Campbell. Listen to find out who ranks #1 on each list!Off The Charts features a blend of statistical insights, tactical analysis, and personal opinions, aimed at providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the week's key matchups and the intricacies of the sport. You can follow our content on Twitter at @Football_SIS, on Bluesky at @sportsinfosis.bsky.social and at sportsinfosolutions.com.

On today's Local News Hour, Summit County Council Chair Canice Harte recaps discussions about possible short-term rental restrictions in the area (9:44). Then, Kate Wynn previews the Gateway to Summer event in Kamas on June 12 and 13 (26:37), and Jack Campbell with the High Country Fly Fishing Club details a free fly fishing event at Deer Valley Ponds on Saturday (35:38).

Why Blake Miller Fits the Job The Detroit Lions Podcast zeroed in on the offensive line build after the draft. The focus was Blake Miller stepping into the right tackle spot while Sewell moves to the left side. Miller was described as one of the most experienced linemen in this class, with four years of work and a heavy snap load at Clemson. The book on him is clear: reliable, steady, and ready to play early. There are limits. He plays upright at times, and his athletic profile may cap the ceiling. He is not expected to be flashy or perfect. He is expected to be consistent. Strong enough. Athletic enough. A steady performer on the right side once he settles into the NFL. That level of baseline competence on a rookie deal is valuable. The expectation is capable starter play after some early leeway. Sewell's Switch and the Young Right Side The conversation backed the move of Sewell to the left without much trepidation. Confidence ran high that the transition will hold. A point of debate centered on the right side growing together, with Tate Ratlidge on that side and Miller as a rookie. The group acknowledged bumps are likely early in the year when a second-year player and a rookie share that edge. Coaching and structure are the counter. The Lions can help with tight end alignment to Miller's side and avoid leaving both young players on an island. Continuity across the rest of the line and a smart play caller can shield them as they settle in. Expect some turbulence, then progress. The description of Miller's game even echoed the reliable profile long tied to Taylor Decker at left tackle, a comparison that drew a nod that it worked out well. Petzing's Offense, From a Voice Who Worked With Him The show also touched on new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing. One guest worked in Cleveland when Petzing was there as the tight ends coach and offered a positive read. The takeaway was practical: he helped with understanding the offense and details from the ground up. That perspective matters as the Lions tailor protections and calls to bring the young right side along. Put it together and the roadmap is straightforward. Miller brings dependable snaps. Sewell handles the left. The staff leans on continuity and targeted help to guide the right side. It is a plan built for the NFL grind, and the Detroit Lions Podcast laid out how it can work. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #nfl #drewpetzing #jackcampbell #keithabney #blakemiller #jimmyrolder #derrickmoore #tyrewest #lionsdraft Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Randy and Rich this week going over the contract extension received by Jack Campbell and other news, as OTA's kick off a beautiful Michigan Spring. Remember to follow, download, rate and review The M-66 North Detroit Lions Podcast. We are always available on Apple Podcasts, Castbox, Anchor.FM, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Check us out and give us a follow on Twitter at @M66NDLP, @woodentunes2, @TwitrTom, and @pisspoorpackers. Thanks for listening and #Watch for deer #OnePride #Go Lions! Non-scripted, loosely planned, totally uncredentialed, and currently commercial free

A leader paid like a cornerstone Jack Campbell's new deal landed, and the Detroit Lions linebacker matched the moment. In his press conference, he opened with thanks. Family. His wife and her family. Coaches. Jared Goff. It fit the player Detroit sees every Sunday. Grounded. Direct. Team first. He also remembered draft night noise. Campbell said someone sent him a clipping that called him the worst draft pick ever. His response set his tone. It was not about proving doubters wrong. It was about proving the believers right. That is the voice of a middle-of-the-defense anchor. The Lions treated him like one with this extension, and he earned it. Production that forces respect Campbell stacked an elite 2025. He recorded 176 tackles. That ranked fourth in the NFL and marked the 21st most in a season since 1983. He added five sacks, four pass breakups, and three forced fumbles. He was the only linebacker in football to top three in all those categories. That is volume and impact. Availability matched the output. He played all but four defensive snaps for Detroit last year. When injuries hit around him as a rookie, staying on the field taught him to lead. The growth carried into an All-Pro season. Coverage was once the knock. It is better now. The four pass breakups underscore that he is no longer flat-footed at the catch point like he was early. Campbell credited linebackers coaches Kelvin Sheppard and Shaun Dion Hamilton for sharpening his game. What's next in the middle There is still ceiling. Campbell can keep tightening his coverage. He can time blitzes a little better. He can be cleaner strafing laterally when blockers climb. The context will test him. Without DJ Reader and Roy Lopez as true nose tackles, second-level linemen might get cleaner paths to him. He will have to beat those angles. The expectation is he will. First-team All-Pro status says plenty, but the standard rises again. Contract structure at a glance The extension runs four years for $81,000,000. Total guarantees are $51.15 million. Of that, $22.9 million is fully guaranteed at signing. New money guaranteed is $48.4 million. Campbell received an $8.6 million signing bonus. His 2026 and 2027 salaries are fully guaranteed. That is how a franchise invests in its defensive core. This Detroit Lions Podcast episode centered on a simple truth. Campbell's game, voice, and durability align with what the Lions want in the middle. The numbers back it up. The contract does, too. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jackcampbell #nfl #contractextension #lionsdefense #contractdetails #samlaporta Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The best of Jack Campbell from his presser.

Captain Jack!

Doug can't stand up.

Some good news finally for the Tigers?

Jack Campbell gets PAID! Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, and Sam LaPorta are mysteries. And so is that O-line... A lot of questions asked and answered as Dave Birkett takes us inside the Lions OTA's! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NFC North Roundup: Bears Stadium Bill, Lions Pay Jack Campbell, SCOTUS Boosts Flores, and Josh Jacobs Arrest — On the Fans First Sports Network's “Who Will Be King?” NFC North roundup, Dave (Vikings 1st & SKOL) with Pay (Chicago) and Foster (Detroit) discusses OTAs and major off-field storylines: Illinois' legislative session nearing its end as the Bears seek stadium-related tax certainty tied to Arlington Heights, with Governor Pritzker suggesting the team could be in Illinois or possibly Indiana, and criticism that the Bears lacked key studies like traffic analysis. Detroit's Jack Campbell signs a four-year, $81 million extension, making him the second-highest paid linebacker, with discussion of his development from draft criticism. The panel covers the Supreme Court declining the NFL's petition in Brian Flores' discrimination case, keeping it out of league arbitration and moving toward court discovery. They also review Josh Jacobs' arrest in the Green Bay area on multiple domestic-abuse-related allegations including a felony strangulation/suffocation count, noting innocence until proven guilty and the Packers canceling OTA media availability. 00:00 NFC North Cold Open 01:37 Meet The Panel 03:20 Bears Stadium Bill Drama 07:18 Arlington Heights Vs Indiana 09:30 Who Owns The Stadium 15:14 Lions Pay Jack Campbell 19:14 SCOTUS Boosts Flores Suit 22:49 Will Flores Settle 30:04 Back From Break Jacobs Arrest 33:18 Jacobs Arrest Fallout 34:23 Charges Clarified 36:33 Packers Dodge Media 37:09 DV Reality Check 38:58 Trade Rumor Panic 40:18 Vikings QB Battle 45:17 Fixing The Leg Kick 47:15 Chemistry And Attendance 49:26 Division Win Totals 53:33 Bears Injury Update 55:18 Lions OTA Storylines 56:39 Wrap Up And Plugs FAN WITH US!!!  Follow us on Twitter ✖️ for more updates… Pay @TheRealPayday, host of Frustrated Chicago Sports Fan Channel, June @asgjune & M Foster @Mbrfosterchild, hosts of the Bleachers To Speakers [Lions] podcast, and Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare, from @Vikings1stSKOL. This has been a joint podcast production partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN. ⭐️ Subscribe to us here! - Vikings 1st & SKOL, https://www.youtube.com/@vikings1stskol92 ⭐️ and here - Bleachers to Speakers, https://www.youtube.com/@BleachersToSpeakers-yq8tm ⭐️ and here - Frustrated Chicago Sports Fan, https://www.youtube.com/@FrustratedChicago ⭐️ V1&S on X can be found at @Vikings1stSKOL ⭐️ V1&S Discord at https://discord.com/invite/493z6mQXcN ⭐️ At Fans First Sports Network - https://www.ffsn.app/teams/minnesota-vikings/ ⭐️ Catch it here: https://youtu.be/hMa6Z2Frpns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NFC North Roundup: Bears Stadium Bill, Lions Pay Jack Campbell, SCOTUS Boosts Flores, and Josh Jacobs Arrest — On the Fans First Sports Network's “Who Will Be King?” NFC North roundup, Dave (Vikings 1st & SKOL) with Pay (Chicago) and Foster (Detroit) discusses OTAs and major off-field storylines: Illinois' legislative session nearing its end as the Bears seek stadium-related tax certainty tied to Arlington Heights, with Governor Pritzker suggesting the team could be in Illinois or possibly Indiana, and criticism that the Bears lacked key studies like traffic analysis. Detroit's Jack Campbell signs a four-year, $81 million extension, making him the second-highest paid linebacker, with discussion of his development from draft criticism. The panel covers the Supreme Court declining the NFL's petition in Brian Flores' discrimination case, keeping it out of league arbitration and moving toward court discovery. They also review Josh Jacobs' arrest in the Green Bay area on multiple domestic-abuse-related allegations including a felony strangulation/suffocation count, noting innocence until proven guilty and the Packers canceling OTA media availability. 00:00 NFC North Cold Open 01:37 Meet The Panel 03:20 Bears Stadium Bill Drama 07:18 Arlington Heights Vs Indiana 09:30 Who Owns The Stadium 15:14 Lions Pay Jack Campbell 19:14 SCOTUS Boosts Flores Suit 22:49 Will Flores Settle 30:04 Back From Break Jacobs Arrest 33:18 Jacobs Arrest Fallout 34:23 Charges Clarified 36:33 Packers Dodge Media 37:09 DV Reality Check 38:58 Trade Rumor Panic 40:18 Vikings QB Battle 45:17 Fixing The Leg Kick 47:15 Chemistry And Attendance 49:26 Division Win Totals 53:33 Bears Injury Update 55:18 Lions OTA Storylines 56:39 Wrap Up And Plugs FAN WITH US!!!  Follow us on Twitter ✖️ for more updates… Pay @TheRealPayday, host of Frustrated Chicago Sports Fan Channel, June @asgjune & M Foster @Mbrfosterchild, hosts of the Bleachers To Speakers [Lions] podcast, and Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare, from @Vikings1stSKOL. This has been a joint podcast production partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN. ⭐️ Subscribe to us here! - Vikings 1st & SKOL, https://www.youtube.com/@vikings1stskol92 ⭐️ and here - Bleachers to Speakers, https://www.youtube.com/@BleachersToSpeakers-yq8tm ⭐️ and here - Frustrated Chicago Sports Fan, https://www.youtube.com/@FrustratedChicago ⭐️ V1&S on X can be found at @Vikings1stSKOL ⭐️ V1&S Discord at https://discord.com/invite/493z6mQXcN ⭐️ At Fans First Sports Network - https://www.ffsn.app/teams/minnesota-vikings/ ⭐️ Catch it here: https://youtu.be/hMa6Z2Frpns Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're not political, she's just hot.

In this episode, Jason and Jacob analyze the top linebackers and tight ends in the NFL and NFC North division, sharing insights, rankings, and personal favorites. They discuss player performances, team strategies, and speculate on future roster changes.Visit us on X: @talkinggritpodJason - @Jason_TGPodJacob - @jmallittonYouTube - www.youtube.com/@TalkingGritChapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates02:18 Position Breakdown Series Overview05:11 OTAs and Player Participation Expectations09:16 Lions Linebackers Overview11:27 Jack Campbell's Contract Details13:04 Future Contracts and Team Stability16:24 Linebacker Performance Expectations18:07 Comparing Lions and Vikings Linebackers24:12 Bears Linebackers Overview31:17 Analyzing the Packers Linebacker Crew36:51 Comparative Analysis of NFC North Linebackers42:35 Favorite Lions Linebackers of All Time45:27 Ranking Current NFL Linebackers49:35 Overview of Lions Tight End Group56:05 Examining Bears Tight End Group59:33 Assessing Packers Tight End Group01:02:41 Tight End Rankings in the NFC North01:05:45 Favorite Tight Ends of All Time01:10:36 Current Top Tight Ends in the NFL01:16:45 The Greatest Tight End of All TimeFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559912376520Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/r/Talkinggritpodcast/#detroitlions #NFL #football #NFCNorth

DUI Dash Cam of Britney Spears released, Eli Zaret on the failing Detroit Tigers, RIP Kyle Busch, White House shooting, Stephen Colbert's final Late Show, Chelsea Handler still mad about the Kevin Hart roast, Dr. Chris Brown, Elliot Page memes, and graduation fight videos. Trudi (and Doug Podell) starred in the St. Clair Shores parade. Sponge absolutely ROCKED Rock & Brews Thursday night. Eli Zaret drops by as the Detroit Tigers season is already over, the Detroit Pistons are out of the playoffs, New York Knicks>Cleveland Cavaliers, Travis Kelce embarrasses Taylor Swift courtside, NBA vs their fans, Eli vs Women's MMA, Johnny Manziel MMA fights, Ray J fights, Henry Ruggs wants out of prison, a 24-team CFB Playoff, ESPN's obsession with hot dogs, the White House rumble June 14th, Florida's Teddy Bridgewater Act, Jack Campbell extended by the Detroit Lions, and BranDon challenges everyone in the audience to a fight (for $100K). The Crash's Mackenzie Shirilla is getting it on in prison and creating content. Stephen Colbert wrapped it up drawing 6.7M viewers. Colbert went on Monroe Community Access TV after the finale. Blue Dot Fever is taking over the nation as artists cancel tours. The dash cam of Britney Spears' DUI has been released. Breaking News: She's a loon. RIP NASCAR's Kyle Busch. The Indy 500 had an awesome ending. The WNBA sucks. Did you know a woman played for the Indiana Pacers. Drew Carey hates Spencer Pratt. Chelsea Handler hates jokes, whites, males, Shane Gillis, Tony Hinchcliffe, and the patriarchy. There was a shooting at the White House. Donald Trump Jr. got married. His ex was just diagnosed with breast cancer much to Tiger Woods' chagrin. Teen Takeovers are running amok in Chicago. Check out this graduation fight. Chris Brown is a doctor. 8th grade is full of so much trauma. Elliot Page memes are sweeping the internet. Sydney Sweeney was nude again on TV. Markleverse: Prince William did an interview. Here is an actual conversation with Meghan Markle in the Royal Palace. Mike Tindall hates Prince Harry. Meghan Markle's chocolate is the worst. Merch is for sale! Buy it. Or don't. But do. If you'd like to help support the show… consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (Drew Lane, Marc Fellhauer, Trudi Daniels, Jim Bentley, BranDon, and Roberto).

Hvem har vundet Offseason? Efter draften og den helt store bølge af signings i Free Agency er overstået, har vi nu et ganske godt billede af, hvordan de enkelte hold kommer til at se ud, når 2026-sæsonen bliver sparket i gang til september. I næste uge vurderer vi NFC-holdene, og i denne episode zoomer vi ind på de 16 AFC-mandskaber og kommer med en vurdering af, hvor godt de egentlig er sluppet igennem de seneste måneders forsøg på at opgradere. Vi runder også et par nyheder – blandt andet er rookierne godt i gang med at skrive under på deres første NFL-kontrakter. Ingen af dem kommer umiddelbart til at gå sultne i seng, og det gør Lions' linebacker Jack Campbell heller ikke. Han har nemlig fået en ”relativt okay” kontraktforlængelse, mens quarterback Matthew Stafford nok heller ikke brokker sig over den seneste justering af sin kontrakt i LA. Vært: Thomas Qvortrup. Medvært: Claus Elming. NFL Showet produceres som altid i samarbejde med www.taffel.dk & www.oddset.dk fra Danske Licens Spil (18+).

Matt and Ash discuss this week in Lions news, including Jack Campbell's new contract, and the final 7 unique games of the NFL schedule for Detroit.Explicit Language is in this Podcast.Please don't forget to hit the follow button so you don't miss an episode!Join our Discord channel: https://discord.gg/Jw7tWfCnqNFacebook page: @RoarothelionsukFacebook group: Detroit Lions Fans UK One Pride World WideTwitter: @ROTL_UKInstagram: @ROTL.UKTwitch: rotl_ukYouTube: Roar Of The Lions UKWebsite: Rotluk.com (new merch store available via website)

Why the Fifth-Year Option Never Made Sense The Detroit Lions made Jack Campbell the NFL's second highest paid linebacker. The number is big, and the reasoning is clear. Off-ball linebackers are grouped with pass-rush linebackers for option calculations. That bucket includes names like Micah Parsons. Even Miles Garrett falls into that label in the accounting. Aidan Hutchinson could be listed there, too. Because Campbell earned first team All-Pro, the fifth-year option would have escalated beyond his annual number. The option math was upside down. So the Lions acted early and got cost certainty. The same structure exists for other young Lions. Jahmir Gibbs had a smaller escalator tied to Pro Bowls. This is how the NFL and NFLPA built the system. It rewards production, but it can spike costs at certain positions. Inside the Deal and the Market Campbell's contract lands at $81,000,000 total value and $20,250,000 per year. Only Roquan Smith tops him in total dollars. Only Fred Warner makes more per year at $21,000,000. Average per year is the clean measuring stick. Total value often carries fluff. Teams use mechanisms like void years, and the back end can be soft. The Detroit Lions Podcast spelled out why this price point isn't out of bounds. It is pushing the market, not breaking it. He is young, coming off his first contract, and already an All-Pro. Someone else will leapfrog him soon. That is how the market works. What Campbell Puts on Tape Campbell's tape backs the investment. He forces fumbles by punching the ball out. Officials explained why some of those attempts will now be penalties, and he had a couple misses. The core skill still matters. He arrives on balance. He squares up. He finishes. You rarely see a bad snap. The only consistent nit is occasional coverage wins by the offense. His instincts show up. So does his reactive quickness and eye discipline. He does not overrun the point of attack. That matters for this defense. The pet peeve with linebackers who fly past tackles or get stiff-armed because they are out of control does not apply here. The comparisons offered were about style and reliability. Think Lance Briggs. Think Chris Spielman. Right place. Right angles. Right result. What's Next in the Hierarchy Campbell is now slotted as the No. 2 off-ball linebacker by pay. The plan was to stack up other Detroit Lions stars and where they rank next. That conversation is coming. For now, the headline stands: the Detroit Lions paid for steady, high-end play. The NFL market context and option math justify it. The Detroit Lions Podcast laid out the numbers and the tape, and both point to value. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jackcampbell #nflcontractrankings #peneisewell #jaredgoff #kerbyjoseph #alimmcneill #voidyears Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jack Campbell Locked In, Option Math Explained Jeff Risdon went live on the Detroit Lions Podcast for a bonus hit. Chris was slated to join, but he's on short-term injured reserve. The headline was simple. Jack Campbell announced his contract extension. It runs through the 2030 season. The why behind Detroit declining Campbell's fifth year option mattered. His All-Pro nod pushed that option cost to the franchise tag level for linebackers. The NFL does not separate off ball linebackers from pass rushing linebackers in that calculation. That puts Campbell in the bucket with players like Micah Parsons. That price is prohibitive for any off ball linebacker. An extension always made more sense. Final numbers were not available. The expectation was in the $16–18 million per year range, but the structure will tell the real story. The key pieces to watch: what is guaranteed at signing and how many void years get attached. Fan Reveal, Super Bowl Goal, and Campbell's Leap The news broke in a fan-forward way. Sweta Patel, a loyal Detroit Lions fan, shared the extension first with the team's blessing. Peter Schrager amplified that she indeed had it. Detroit followed with a video featuring Campbell. He smiled and set his goal out loud: the Super Bowl. The growth that led here was steady. Early on, Campbell could get flat-footed in coverage. He guessed on reads at times. Shedding blocks was inconsistent. The tape evolved. Last season he earned first team All-Pro. His missed tackle rate stood out. He was reliable. He was where he needed to be. Always around the ball. The extension validates the development. The Money Mechanics and What's Next Detroit's approach to contracts remains a strategic subplot for the NFL audience. The Lions prefer void years over traditional restructures. That creates cap flexibility today but limits the ability to restructure deals later. You cannot easily add more years if dead years already stack at the back end. The number of void years on Campbell will signal how aggressively Detroit wants to push money forward. If the deal carries only one void year, it suggests confidence. Confidence in Campbell signing another extension down the road. Confidence in handling the rest of the core without robbing future space. The draft class of 2023 sits next in line. Branch and Laporta are in contract years as second-rounders and are coming off injuries, which complicates projections. Gibbs can wait a bit longer if necessary. And Penay's next extension is not far out. It could come as early as next offseason. For the Detroit Lions, this bonus Detroit Lions Podcast episode framed the moment. Campbell is locked up. The cap chessboard is in motion. Eyes now shift to guarantees, void years, and the next signatures. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jackcampbellextension #fifthyearoption #franchisetaglevel #jahmyrgibbs #lionscontracts #brianbranch #samlaporta #detroitdefense Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jack Campbell is Signed! Are the boys happy with the deal? Plus a fun little offseason top. Top 5/Bottom 5 Logos and Jerseys. Are you Team Jacob or Team Jason?Visit us on X: @talkinggritpodJason - @Jason_TGPodJacob - @jmallittonYouTube - www.youtube.com/@TalkingGritFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559912376520Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/r/Talkinggritpodcast/#detroitlions #NFL #football #NFCNorthChapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates12:13 Life Perspectives and Listener Engagement21:06 Discussion of NFL Team Logos and Personal Preferences31:07 Logo Preferences41:06 Best Uniforms51:24 Worst Uniforms56:25 Top 5 Alternate Jerseys01:03:39 Bottom 5 Alternate Jerseys

Today we're broadcasting live from the wonderful American Dunes Golf Club in Grand Haven. Throughout the show we were joined by some of the great people connected to American Dunes and Folds of Honor as they're celebrating Patriot Golf Days this Memorial Day Weekend. By simply golfing at a participating course, you can help our heroes - just go to PatriotGolfDays.com to find out more. We also talked all about the Detroit Lions as Jeff Risdon from the Detroit Lions Podcast joined us for all three hours of the show. During that time, he and Huge talked about what the current offense and defense look like for the Lions, talked about strengths and weaknesses of the team, talked about the Jack Campbell news, talked about the strength of schedule, discussed the rest of the NFC North, talked about storylines surrounding the NFL, and so much more. In our second hour, we were joined by Mitch Lyons from Mitch Lyons Wealth. He and Huge gave their thoughts on the Tigers, Detroit Lions, and more. We were then joined by Sara Bush who is with Folds of Honor and American Dunes. She talked about Patriot Golf Days and what it means for Folds of Honor, talked about Folds of Honor Fridays, and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we're broadcasting live from the wonderful American Dunes Golf Club in Grand Haven. Throughout the show we were joined by some of the great people connected to American Dunes and Folds of Honor as they're celebrating Patriot Golf Days this Memorial Day Weekend. By simply golfing at a participating course, you can help our heroes - just go to PatriotGolfDays.com to find out more. We also talked all about the Detroit Lions as Jeff Risdon from the Detroit Lions Podcast joined us for all three hours of the show. During that time, he and Huge talked about what the current offense and defense look like for the Lions, talked about strengths and weaknesses of the team, talked about the Jack Campbell news, talked about the strength of schedule, discussed the rest of the NFC North, talked about storylines surrounding the NFL, and so much more. At the end of the first hour, we were joined by Ian Ziska who is the Head PGA Pro at American Dunes. He and Huge talked about Patriot Golf Days, told us about some of the specials they have to offer this weekend, talked about what's happening this Summer, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ben and Kory discuss discuss Jadeveon Clowney as a potential late free agent signing before opening up the mailbag. Then, news of Jack Campbell's contract extension breaks mid-episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

(0:00) “What do you have growing on your face?”(7:10) Chris learned an Arsenal chant(14:05) RIP Yankees legend John Sterling(16:25) 2026 Rookie Predictions: This year’s Cam Ward? Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza(20:35) This year’s Tyler Shough? Cardinals QB Carson Beck(24:20) This year’s TreVeyon Henderson? Cardinals RB Jeremiyah Love & Seahawks RB Jadarian Price(27:25) This year’s Quinshon Judkins? Commanders RB Kaytron Allen & Broncos RB Jonah Coleman(30:00) This year’s Cam Skattebo? Chargers WR Brenen Thompson & Buccaneers DB Keionte Scott(32:45) This year’s Tetairoa McMillan? Titans WR Carnell Tate, Saints WR Jordyn Tyson, Commanders WR Antonio Williams(37:05) This year’s Luther Burden III? Panthers WR Chris Brazzell II & Dolphins WR Chris Bell(39:40) This year’s Grey Zabel? Texans OL Keylan Rutledge & Ravens OL Vega Ioane(41:00) This year’s James Pearce Jr? Jets DE David Bailey, LB Malachi Lawrence, 49ers DL Romello Height(44:00) This year’s Abdul Carter? Chiefs DE R Mason Thomas, Ravens DE Zion Young, Patriots LB Gabe Jacas(47:15) This year’s Carson Schwesinger? Titans LB Anthony Hill Jr, Commanders LB Sonny Styles, Vikings LB Jake Golday(50:30) This year’s Nick Emmanwori? Cowboys S Caleb Downs & Browns S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren(52:45) Andy Reid says QB Patrick Mahomes is in “good position” to participate in OTAs(56:35) Fernando Mendoza learning to play from under center(1:01:00) Texans agree to 3-year extension with LB Azeez Al-Shaair(1:02:15) Why did the Lions decline Jack Campbell’s 5th-year option?(1:06:15) Surprise poll! Which Simms impression is better: Bane or Patrick Mahomes?(1:08:30) Malik Willis goes viral…why are QBs bad at throwing a baseball?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ian Harditz joins Jeremy to analyze rookie landing spots and player values for dynasty fantasy football. They also discuss the financial implications of NFL positional markets regarding linebackers like Jack Campbell and explore the longevity of the Sabres' Blade Gang fan movement. 01:52 - Ian Harditz Fantasy Breakdown 06:02 - Dynasty Running Back Analysis 12:16 - NFL Positional Market Trends 19:30 - Sabres Blade Gang Debate 23:40 - NHL Jersey Superstitions

Detroit locks in Gibbs, declines Campbell's option The Detroit Lions made their first major post-draft decision. Jameer Gibbs is secured on his fifth-year option for 2027 at 14.3 million. Jack Campbell's fifth-year option will not be exercised. The difference is the math. Campbell's All Pro season flipped his option into the franchise tag value for linebackers. That one-year number sits at 21.9 million. Detroit will not carry that charge for an off ball linebacker in 2027. The team still controls Gibbs for 2026 on his rookie deal. Picking up his option locks a placeholder for 2027 at a number that is likely below his market. A new contract can supersede it. Expect that conversation before 2027 arrives. Why the linebacker price exploded Option values escalate. A Pro Bowl raises the figure. An All Pro nod pushes it to the franchise tag value. The NFL and NFLPA still group all linebackers together. Off ball players are lumped with edge rushers. That puts Campbell in the same bucket as stars like Micah Parsons and even Miles Garrett if classified that way. It distorts the market for a player who does not rush the passer on every snap. Campbell has earned top status at his role. He ascended last season. But a single-year 21.9 million cap hit is untenable. Declining the option is not a slight. It is the necessary bridge to a long-term deal that reflects his impact without smashing one season of cap space. The path to a Campbell extension A multi-year agreement spreads cost and control. Think four years at a market rate level with significant guarantees. Structure matters. Detroit can use signing bonus and option bonuses, then add void years to spread charges. That amortizes money over time instead of swallowing it in one year. The result is a cleaner 2027 cap while rewarding an elite off ball linebacker. This approach also removes the uncertainty that comes with a single-season option. It provides stability for the player and flexibility for the club. The longer negotiations wait, the more comparable deals rise. Moving now helps both sides. Branch and LaPorta hit contract years Second-rounders do not have fifth-year options. Brian Branch and Sam Laporta head into the final years of their rookie contracts. Branch's injury complicates timing. You want the deal, but the health timeline is unclear. He has never won with raw speed. He wins with feel, with smarts, and with physicality. That profile still plays, but the medical piece matters. Laporta's situation is straightforward. No option, one year left, and production to price. Expect those talks to heat up after the option decisions cool. The Detroit Lions Podcast will stay on the mechanics as May 1 approaches and the 2027 picture sharpens. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jahmyrgibbs #jackcampbell #fifthyearoptions #contracts #brianbranch #samlaporta #contractextensionprojections #jamesproche #djreader Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Lions picked up the 5th-year option on Jahmyr Gibbs, but declined that of Jack Campbell

The 2026 NFL Draft closed on Saturday, and the Detroit Lions Podcast zeroed in on how Detroit finished. Day Three lacked its usual spark. Too many late picks around the NFL look unlikely to stick. That reality shaped a sharp read on what the Detroit Lions did and why. Jimmy Roeder at 118: Box thumper with work to do Detroit opened Day Three with Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jimmy Roeder at No. 118. Jeff Risdon had him at No. 177 on his board but backed the fit. He watched Roeder live three times, including mop-up duty in the 2024 Fresno State game. The traits showed up. Roeder thrives in the box. He stacks, strafes, and drives downhill at the run. He does not shed consistently, but he sorts traffic and finds the ball. He is a fantastic form tackler. He can close on screens, blow up a bubble screen, and reach the sideline if the edge is not sealed. The flags are clear. Coverage is the biggest one. He does not always trust his eyes. He started only one year at Michigan and played a lot of vanilla zone. There is upside, but he must get off blocks better. When the defensive line wins up front, Roeder pops. When it does not, he can fade. That mirrors how Jack Campbell looks better when DJ Reader, Ty Lake Williams, and Alene McNeil are rolling. Roeder walks in as direct competition and insurance for Malcolm Rodriguez, who returned on a one-year deal. He brings special teams experience. The value was a touch early, but the role makes sense in Detroit. Derek Moore at 44: Why Detroit moved Detroit traded up to 44 for Derek Moore on Friday night. The front office believed Baltimore would take him at 45. The Jesse Minter connection made that a plausible fear. That was their guy. They went and got him. The message was simple. Be aggressive. Do not sweat trade value charts. If you land the player, the move is worth it. Moore projects as a win. Keith Abney at 157: Undersized corner, heavyweight hits Arizona State defensive back Keith Abney at No. 157 was the favorite pick of the day. He reminds you of Amik Robertson. He is an undersized outside corner who hits like a safety and tackles like a safety. The question now is where the Detroit Lions envision him. Outside, inside, or a hybrid path will define his rookie impact. The tools and temperament are there. Day Three did not deliver the usual thrill. The class across the league looks thin. Still, Detroit found specific roles and leaned into identity. That is how you survive the NFL marathon. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #202nfldraft #lionspicks #jimmyrolder #keithabney #skylergill-howard #tyrewest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A draft that flips expectations Uncertainty rules the 2026 NFL draft. Only one quarterback looks like a first-round lock. The wide receivers, once viewed as light, surged into the star group. Running back thins after Jeremiah Love. The board pushes teams toward less celebrated positions. That creates value and hard choices. It also exposes which front offices are organized and which are guessing. Tight ends, safeties and OL carry the board This Detroit Lions Podcast episode zeroes in on where the talent sits. Tight end is a headline. Kenyan Sadiq grades as a top-tier prospect and projects to go very early. Safety is strong and deeper than usual. Interior offensive line offers starter traits into Day Two. Offensive tackle holds up well, too. The sweet spot stretches through Day Two and into Day Three for these groups. Teams willing to invest in non-premium positions can clean up. That mirrors how the Detroit Lions built recent drafts with results. The conversation tracked how recent cycles elevated quarterback, running back and wide receiver. This year tilts differently. Safeties and tight ends stand out. Interior linemen anchor the depth. It is not a bad class. It is a unique class that demands precision and a clear plan. Linebacker calculus and Detroit lessons Linebacker is still devalued on draft night, but the names have juice. Arvel Reed and Niese Styles headline. CJ Allen is climbing. Jacob Rodriguez could even sneak in, depending on need. Teams hesitate unless the traits scream All-Pro. The Lions have shown it can work. They invested in Jack Campbell. They added Brian Branch and Sam LaPorta. They hit on Jabir Gibbs. Non-premium positions produced premium impact. This class lines up with that approach, especially on Day Two and Day Three. Trade talk and board ripple The Dexter Lawrence trade drew measured praise. New York did well. Cincinnati's angle also tracks. They never truly replaced DJ Reed and missed that presence. Moves like that shift boards. Safety runs can start earlier. Offensive line plans adjust. Big-name safeties can still slide outside the top 10 or even top 20, but the overall depth gives teams options. For Detroit, the value bands match where the roster-building model has thrived. Tight ends, safeties and offensive linemen anchor this draft. That is where the 2026 NFL board feels strongest and where smart clubs can separate. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #2026nfldraft #tampabaybuccaneers #kenyonsaddiq #drewallar #minnesotavikings #draftinpittsburgh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trade-Up Logic for a Tight Roster On April 14, Jeff Risdon opened the Detroit Lions Podcast by dropping his annual dream draft. The premise is simple. Targets he prefers at every pick, no trades in the mock, and a clear-eyed look at roster math. His NFL calculus points one way. Trade up over trading back. Risdon expects three or four selections this year might not crack the active 53-man roster. Not because they cannot play, but because the Detroit Lions have fewer open chairs. Late picks can sit on the practice squad. That shifts value toward higher picks instead of collecting more Day 3 swings. He contrasted it with earlier Lions eras that forced rookies into the lineup. Amari Spivey got thrown to the wolves. A late-round inside backer from Cal had to play right away. Today's depth means patience. Recent examples back it up. Dominic Lovett, a seventh-rounder a year ago, barely saw the offense and made little impact on special teams. Dan Jackson, also a seventh-round pick, returns healthy but might not have played much as a rookie anyway. That is a different Lions reality. It makes trading up more attractive this spring. Caleb Lomu at 17 and Panay Stays Right Risdon's first-round dream pick is Caleb Lomu, the Utah left tackle. The choice ties directly to keeping Panay Sewell at right tackle. Sewell is the best in the world there. Move him and he would still be great, but why disrupt excellence. With a true left tackle in Lomu, Detroit can preserve its right-side identity. Risdon praised Lomu's athleticism, length, and smarts. Crafty feet. Room to grow. He admitted the run blocking is not elite yet. Others are better in that phase. Spencer Fano brings more in-line drive. Francis Malinois does too. But the upside with Lomu at left tackle fits the long view while maintaining continuity with Sewell. Building the Right-Side Run and Interior Fits The vision extends to the run game. Keep the Detroit Lions pounding right. Pair Sewell with Tate Ratledge and have Cade Mays available to reinforce that side. Lomu holds down the blind side while the right side remains the hammer. The balance lets the offense dictate with angles and tempo without retooling the front. That philosophy also informs the board. In a weaker draft, higher picks matter more than a pile of late fliers. The Detroit Lions Podcast framed it cleanly. Aim your swings where roster spots actually exist. Trade-Up Wildcard and Year-Two Buzz If he did climb from 17, Risdon identified a prize. Niese Styles is his No. 2 overall player. A safety background shows up in space, yet he is bigger than Arvel Reed, who projects as an edge. Styles can play with Jack Campbell and unlock sub-package flexibility. There is carryover optimism too. Last year's dream manifested early hits. The Lions landed Tylek Williams and Isaac TeSlaa sooner than expected. Risdon likes what comes next, especially for Williams in year two now that he knows NFL life. The dream stays ambitious. The logic stays grounded. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #nfl #dreamdraft #caleblomu #lefttackle #panaysewell #tradeup #tradeback #tylekwilliams #isaacteslaa #tateratledge #cademays #spencerfano #niesestyles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One Year Ago, the Mocks Missed Two weeks from the 2026 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions Podcast rewinds to last spring. The mock draft pulse around Detroit told one story. The actual first round told another. The board buzzed with edge rushers and tackles. Derek Horton from Oregon surfaced. Kelvin Banks and Grey Campbell showed up. Donovan Esaraku led the projections to pick 28. Jihad Campbell appeared in multiple runs. Nick Skorton and Michael Williams stayed popular among the edge crowd. The problem was fit. Linebacker was not the urgent need some insisted it was. Jack Campbell was rising into an all‑pro level performer. Alex Anzalone held the room and covered space. Depth existed until Malcolm Rodriguez's injury later in the year. The frenzy still pushed front‑seven names, mostly edges, into the Lions slot because it felt safe. The Pick Few Saw Coming The Detroit Lions took Tylek Williams, defensive tackle from Ohio State, in the first round. Almost no mock two weeks out had that connection. One social post on March 10, 2025, put Williams as a first‑round expectation after the combine. Then the projection shifted. Confidence wavered. Two days before the draft, a strong league voice said Williams would be the pick. That tip got ignored. The card in Detroit matched the early combine read, not the late‑cycle noise. The lesson is clear. Information gathered at the NFL combine tends to hold up. Pro days, public trackers, and the mock churn can blur the picture. The 2025 cycle did exactly that. It pushed a wave of edges and a linebacker into focus while the Detroit Lions quietly lined up a disruptive defensive tackle. The 2026 Takeaway As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, remember what actually aligned with the pick a year ago. Combine intel mattered. Need still mattered. The perception that Brad Holmes refuses to draft for need gets overstated. The stronger takeaway is more precise. He does not force edge early if the board and role do not match value. Expect heavy speculation again. You will see more edges mocked to Detroit. You will see another linebacker or two. That happened last year with Donovan Esaraku, Jihad Campbell, Nick Skorton, and Michael Williams cycling through the slot. The room, the roles, and the Lions priorities will decide, not the volume of projections. Last spring offered a blunt reminder. The earliest accurate breadcrumb came out of Indianapolis. It pointed to Tylek Williams and interior disruption. The late noise washed it out. Detroit still made the right call. Keep that framework close as the clock ticks toward the 2026 first round. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #tylekwilliams #nfldraft #mockdrafts #defensivetackle #combineintel #donovanesaraku #jihadcampbell #jackcampbell #alexanzalone #malcolmrodriguez #edgerusher #nickskorton #michaelwilliams #bradholmes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Xavier grew up in central Iowa and prepped at South East Polk before joining the Hawks in January of 2022. He joins to discuss being days away from Iowa's Pro Day after a strong NFL Combine, describing the stressful schedule, extensive medical checks, and interview prep through weekly Zoom mock interviews. He reflects on training in Austin, returning to Iowa City, and his high school recruitment as a Southeast Polk standout, explaining why he chose Iowa over Ohio State and Notre Dame and valuing Kirk Ferentz's stability and the staff's honesty about earning everything. X shares early “welcome to college football” moments, his relationships with coaches Wallace, Parker, and Woods, and how he grew into a starter, including starting the Music City Bowl. He discusses NIL experiences like filming a Powerade ad, learning from teammates like Cooper DeJean and leaders like Jack Campbell, adding a more aggressive defensive mindset, favorite games, and his plan to make an NFL roster starting on special teams while completing agility, bench, and drills at Pro Day. If you love the show and want to show support, tell your friends! And, check out our exclusive content at Patreon.com/washedupwalkons where you can find extra podcast episodes, exclusive merchandise, Merch discounts with every tier, private Walkon discord channel access, and more! Find us on social media @washedupwalkons Visit TheWashedUpWalkons.com for all of our episodes, merchandise, and more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.