Category: NFL

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Based on the insightful conversation between Matt Harmon and Dan Pizzuta (of the 33rd Team) on the latest Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, there are compelling reasons why the Denver Broncos should consider drafting North Carolina Tar Heels running back prospect, Omarion Hampton.

Firstly, both Harmon and Pizzuta agree that the Denver Broncos boast arguably one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. Not only were they ranked first in both pass block win rate and run block win rate last year, but they also have demonstrated a solid foundation that sets the stage for significant offensive improvements. The Broncos' offensive line can create ample opportunities for a talented running back like Hampton to excel and elevate the ground game.

The Broncos' running game is a key area that stands to benefit significantly from a dynamic presence like Hampton. With Hampton's strength in breaking tackles and generating yards after contact, he possesses the explosive potential that the Broncos currently lack. Pizzuta emphasizes that Hampton only averaged 1.5 yards before contact per rush last year but still ranked sixth in yards after contact per rush, showcasing his ability to turn poor conditions into positive plays.

With Sean Payton as the head coach, the Broncos have an offensive mind that can effectively utilize a powerful and explosive runner. By adding Hampton, the Broncos can maximize his capabilities and fully leverage the offensive line’s strengths. This potential addition would not only give Denver an edge in the run game but also add another layer of depth and versatility to their offensive playbook.

Furthermore, the complementary role that Hampton can play alongside the existing offensive talent — led by Bo Nix coming off a successful rookie season — provides a seamless fit for the Broncos. Having a back who can make a defender miss five yards past the line of scrimmage rather than at it means more big plays and a consistent offensive threat.

Hampton's skills and the Broncos' already strong offensive line provide a formula for him to succeed if he lands there — and for fantasy football managers to have another intriguing back with opportunity and upside to consider come draft season.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

What is Travis Hunter's ideal role in the NFL — cornerback or receiver?

Nate Tice and Charles McDonald discussed that exact question on the latest edition of the "Football 301" podcast, where they also ranked the cornerbacks in the upcoming NFL Draft.

"As a cornerback, man, this is about as good as it gets ... He's No. 1 cornerback in this class," McDonald said. "And I think that any team that drafts him to play cornerback, you're getting someone who can be like a CB1, one of the best players in the league right off the bat."

They both emphasize his exceptional feel for the corner position, his elite athletic gifts and his special, rare ball skills. Tice describes Hunter as having an almost instinctual ability to bait quarterbacks and make plays in zone coverage, while McDonald praises his willingness to be a playmaker.

They both agree that Hunter's physical traits, including his speed, length, and ball skills, make him an incredibly valuable prospect. Though Hunter's physical frame might benefit from a bit more bulk for the NFL's tackling demands, his competitive nature and versatility shine through. 

They imagine his ideal role in the NFL as primarily focusing on cornerback responsibilities, while also having the potential to contribute as a receiver in a more limited, specialized role. 

Here is how they rank the cornerbacks in the upcoming draft:

1. Travis Hunter (Colorado)

Why: They praise Hunter for his incredible athleticism, instincts, and playmaking ability. His ability to play both cornerback and wide receiver at a high level is unique.

2. Will Johnson (Michigan)

Why: Johnson's combination of size, instincts, and ball skills make him a top prospect. Although 2024 wasn't as strong due to injuries, his 2023 tape showed shutdown capabilities.

3. Shavon Revel Jr. (East Carolina)

Why: Despite being from a smaller school and having an ACL injury, Revel's physical attributes and performance stood out as a top-level cornerback.

4. Jahdae Barron (Texas)

Why: Known for his versatility, Barron’s speed and physical ability make him a strong slot corner candidate despite not being an overwhelming presence outside.

5. Maxwell Hairston (Kentucky)

Why: Hairston’s speed and athleticism defined him as a high-potential prospect, although concerns remain about his versatility. 

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Missouri's Armand Membou has become increasingly prominent among scouts and draft analysts, standing at No. 16 on Yahoo Sports' consensus NFL Draft big board. He is drawing significant attention for his athleticism and potential versatility. Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice analyzed Membou's pros and cons on a podcast episode of "Football 301" with former NFL head coach Mike Tice.  

Membou primarily played right tackle for Missouri. That's where his athleticism truly shines. He plays with excellent change of direction and agility and possesses footwork that stands out, especially in the high-paced college football game. His ability to handle wide receiver screens and perform in open space positions him well for teams that value dynamic offensive line play. Membou's skills with arm extension enables him to keep defenders away effectively, a technique that is critical as linemen face increasingly sophisticated defensive maneuvers.

One crucial question surrounding Membou is his versatility — does he have the capability to transition to left tackle? 

While many believe he possesses the athleticism to make the switch, the spotlight remains on ensuring his technique and strength are where they need to be in the NFL. Membou's fit seems almost tailor-made for schemes that prioritize outside zone runs, thanks to his exceptional ability to get out in space quickly and manage blocking in motion.

Though Membou's agility is undeniable, there are areas for growth that the Missouri standout can focus on to elevate his game further. Improving his strength will be critical, ensuring he can hold his ground against more massive NFL defenders. Nevertheless, with his current trajectory and skills, Membou is set to meet and exceed these challenges through further development.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Based on the insights shared by Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice and Mike Tice in the "Football 301 Podcast" episode, Donovan Jackson emerges as a notable NFL Draft prospect for several compelling reasons.

Firstly, Jackson boasts versatility in his play, having shown proficiency at guard and tackle during his time at Ohio State. His experience playing multiple positions on the offensive line makes him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking for depth.

Secondly, Jackson's athleticism stands out. Even though he shifted to tackle following Josh Simmons' injury, it was the later tackle tape that highlighted his movement skills, making him even more appealing as a guard. The Tices appreciated his athleticism and ability to perform in space, which suggests that Jackson has the potential to excel in various offensive schemes.

"How do you miss on the player like this?" Mike Tice asked. "This player is going to be a good player in the league for. For quite a while. ... 

"I would definitely have Jackson ahead of [Alabama guard Tyler] Booker." 

Moreover, Jackson's pedigree and physical attributes are hard to ignore. As a player who started multiple games and demonstrated solid performance at a high level of competition, he has the experience and background that scouts often look for in a draft prospect.

Finally, his length (33-inch arms), combined with the athleticism noted by Nate and Mike Tice, positions him as a strong candidate to contribute effectively at the next level.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

In a recent episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports discussed the potential impact of the Dallas Cowboys drafting Arizona Wildcats WR Tetairoa McMillan. As he explained, the Cowboys struggled last season to utilize fantasy football star CeeDee Lamb effectively due to a lack of a true X receiver. With Lamb forced to spend nearly half of his snaps on the outside, his role as a slot receiver — a position where he truly excels — was diminished.

McMillan, with his impressive build and skill set, is well-suited to take on the X receiver role. Standing at 6'4", he offers the size and presence needed on the outside, allowing Lamb to return to the slot. This shift not only plays to Lamb's strengths but also adds a new dimension to the Cowboys' offense. As Trapasso noted, McMillan's ability to win in contested catch situations and his proficiency in the intermediate passing game make him a perfect fit.

What's more, Lamb's versatility means he can still take snaps at the X position, adding an element of unpredictability to the offensive scheme. The synergy between Lamb and McMillan could create nightmares for opposing defenses, forcing them to account for multiple threats across the field.

This strategic draft decision goes beyond optimizing personnel — it's about unleashing an explosive potential that lies within the Cowboys' offense. Pairing Lamb's dynamic playmaking ability with McMillan’s strong, consistent presence on the outside could indeed make for a formidable duo.

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For a Cowboys team looking to bolster its arsenal and contend in a competitive league, drafting Tetairoa McMillan could be the key to unlocking new levels of offensive success and truly unleashing the potential of CeeDee Lamb.

Incorporating TMAC into the Cowboys’ roster could turn an already potent offense into one of the most feared in the NFL — something fans are eager to see.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Mike Tice, former head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, joined his son, Nate, on the Football 301 podcast to discuss the offensive line prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Here is how Mike Tice ranks the o-linemen in this year's class:

1. Josh Conerly Jr. (T, Oregon): Mike Tice highly praises Conerly as his No. 1 offensive lineman in this draft. He appreciates Conerly's great technique, footwork, hand usage and ability to extend his arms. Tice believes Conerly has a lot of good traits, making him a premier offensive tackle in this year's draft.

2. Josh Simmons (T, Ohio State): Tice is fond of Simmons and considers him a true left tackle. He highlights Simmons' athleticism, smoothness and ability to finish plays. Tice also notes that Simmons can sink and flip his hips effectively, especially on the backside.

3. Kelvin Banks (T, Texas): Tice sees Banks as a tackle due to his athletic ability. He highlights Banks' excellence in space, good redirection and ability to maintain contact with pass rushers. Tice believes Banks is capable of playing left tackle at the next level.

4. Armand Membou (T, Missouri): Tice ranks Membou highly for his excellent agility, foot fire in the run game and use of his arms. He appreciates Membou's ability to excel in wide receiver screens and his ability to redirect quickly.

5. Will Campbell (T, LSU): Although Tice indicates that Campbell may project as a guard due to his arm length, he recognizes his strengths as a young player. Campbell is praised for his intelligence, aggression and ability as a blocker.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Oregon's Derrick Harmon is emerging as a standout prospect on the defensive line. Harmon is drawing significant attention for his versatility, skills and ability to impact the run and passing game.

Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice ranked him 15th on his big board entering April and Charles McDonald put him 21st on his board. 

Harmon is heralded for his adeptness at playing across the defensive line. Tice appreciates Harmon's ability to line up as a true three-technique defensive tackle, meaning he typically lines up on the outside shoulder of the guard, positioning himself perfectly to disrupt runs and passes.

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Harmon's game film illustrates his proficiency not merely in racking up big plays but also in doing the important in-between work. He's noted for keeping his feet moving, maintaining his gaps and contributing significantly during twists and games, a tactic involving defensive linemen exchanging roles to confuse the offensive line.

One of the more fascinating comparisons for Harmon is to former NFL star Akeem Hicks. Like Hicks, Harmon is expected to contribute effectively against both the pass and run, potentially proving to be a valuable asset to any defensive scheme. This versatility allows him to fit into gap-shooting defenses, where the objective is to penetrate and disrupt the backfield, as well as two-gap systems, where retaining a position and controlling the blocker are key.

The enthusiasm surrounding Harmon is largely due to his balanced skill set, suggesting a high floor with plenty of ceiling yet to be realized. Harmon's robust performance numbers were highlighted in the "Football 301 Podcast" episode that broke down the top defensive linemen in this upcoming draft. 

Whether dominating at the line of scrimmage or making critical stops behind it, Harmon is poised to be a significant asset in this year's defensive line class. 

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Michigan's Mason Graham stands out as a top-tier defensive tackle prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft with incredible potential thanks to his explosive playmaking and versatility. However, injury concerns, length issues, and questions about consistency and sack production make him a prospect that NFL teams will have to evaluate carefully to ensure his college dominance can translate to the professional field.

Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice and Charles McDonald dove into the pros and cons of Graham's game. Here's what they found:  

Why Graham is high in class of defensive linemen

Explosive playmaker: Graham has earned the nickname "the human hand grenade" due to his ability to detonate plays upon impact. His explosive athleticism and knock-back power are impressive attributes that set him apart from his peers.

Versatility: Graham can play as a three-technique in normal downs and shift inside to a one-technique on pass rush downs. This flexibility makes him a valuable asset for NFL teams looking for a dynamic presence.

Big play generator: Beyond being just a big body on the line, Graham is known for generating significant plays in the pass rush and run defense. His ability to contribute meaningfully across the board bolsters his stock as a top prospect.

High potential for dominance: His 2023 game tape shows stretches of outright dominance, indicating that when healthy and in form, Graham can take over games. His quickness, strength and ability to penetrate the line make him a threat to offenses.

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Yellow and red flags on Graham 

Injury concerns: While Graham's 2023 season showcased his potential dominance, there was a notable drop-off in his 2024 season, partly due to injuries. This raises concerns about his durability and ability to sustain high performance over a full NFL season.

Lack of length: One of the main blemishes in Graham's profile is his 32-inch arm length which, although not a deal-breaker, might limit his effectiveness against longer-armed offensive linemen in the NFL. This could impact his ability to consistently create separation and execute certain pass rush moves.

Consistency: While most reports laud his potential, there's acknowledgement that Graham didn't consistently dominate in 2024. His performance fluctuated, posing questions about his ability to maintain a high level of play week-in and week-out in the NFL.

Projection as a sack artist: There is some uncertainty about whether Graham can be a guaranteed double-digit sack player, which is often a benchmark for elite defensive tackles. Although he has moments of brilliance, questions about his ultimate ceiling in terms of sack production remain.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

When considering which running back is the best fit for the Dallas Cowboys, it's essential to align the player's skills with the team's existing offensive scheme. Based on the insights from the latest episode of the "Yahoo Fantasy Football Forecast" with Matt Harmon and Charles McDonald, there are a few standout candidates from the current draft class who could fit well with Dallas's offense.

The Cowboys have traditionally leaned on a versatile run game, capable of executing both zone and gap-scheme runs effectively. This presents an opportunity for a running back who can handle various types of rushing plays, contribute as a pass catcher, and offer a decent level of speed and agility to break plays in the open field.

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Two running backs mentioned in the podcast that stand out as potential fits for the Cowboys are:

TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State

According to Harmon, TreVeyon Henderson is likened to Aaron Jones in terms of playing style, who has been proficient in zone run schemes. Since Dallas sixth in percentage of zone runs, Henderson's ability to stretch plays to the outside and make gains past the initial defensive line could be crucial. His ability as a pass catcher also presents additional benefits, making him a dual-threat out of the backfield.

Kaleb Johnson, Iowa

Harmon and McDonald spoke well of Johnson's prowess in executing outside zone plays, which are a part of Dallas’ game plan. With his smooth running style and good vision, Johnson could be an option that maintains the balance of Dallas's traditional ground game while offering relief options in the pass game.

Both of these potential draftees could thrive in the Cowboys' offensive system, whether they're running the ball or catching passes in a quick-hitting, high-paced offense. Each provides unique attributes that align with the Cowboys’ needs, making them solid candidates to consider come draft day.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

As we wade through the buzz of the NFL draft season, it’s becoming clear that this year might boast the best running back draft class we’ve seen in a long time. With a deep pool of talent and a variety of skill sets that fit seamlessly into today’s NFL, there's a lot to be excited about. Here’s why this draft class is potentially historic.

Generational talent Ashton Jeanty leads deep class

At the helm of this class is Boise State's Ashton Jeanty, a player who is drawing comparisons to some of the top backs drafted in the past decade. Jeanty's staggering production — 2,601 yards in one season — and his ability to absorb contact make him a perfect fit for any team needing a game-changing runner. While discussing the class on the latest Fantasy Football Forecast, Charles McDonald and Matt Harmon both agree that, while Jeanty may not quite match the otherworldly athleticism of a Saquon Barkley or Todd Gurley, his combination of vision and durability places him in elite territory.

The talent doesn't stop with Jeanty. Players like Omarion Hampton from North Carolina, who boasts a robust NFL-ready frame and impressive receiving ability, highlight the depth of this class. Hampton’s balance of power and agility can complement any offensive scheme, making him a likely first-rounder.

Ohio State brings two noteworthy talents to the table with TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Henderson offers a splash of playmaking ability, ideal for teams running outside zone schemes, whereas Judkins provides a bruiser style that can keep defenses on their heels. Both players have the potential to be significant assets depending on their landing spots.

Looking deeper into the class, Kaleb Johnson and Dylan Sampson provide intriguing options. Johnson, with his steady, Arian Foster-esque game, can be a stabilizing force in a zone-heavy run attack. Meanwhile, Sampson offers explosive capabilities that might just translate to game-breaking performances on Sundays, despite him playing in Tennessee's unique offensive system.

This running back class stands out, not just for the marquee names at the top but for the wealth of talent throughout. Players like these in the second and third rounds are reminiscent of the gems we saw in the 2017 class, which included fantasy football stars like Alvin Kamara and Kareem Hunt.

With so many teams seeking a boost to their rushing attacks, this is an ideal year to have an open spot in the backfield. From potential first-round selections to mid-round gems, the caliber and variety of this class make it one of the deepest and most intriguing prospects for the NFL draft in recent memory. Keep an eye on these running backs as they transition to the pros; they have the makings to shape the future of NFL running games for years to come.

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As Charles McDonald aptly puts it, "We're going to get back to doing what football is all about—running the ball." Indeed, this may be the perfect class to usher in a new era of ground-and-pound football in the NFL.