NFL Draft Season Is Finally Here (w/ Ian Rapoport)
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “NFL Draft Season Is Finally Here (w/ Ian Rapoport)” inside PodZeus.
The Stugotz and Company podcast kicks off NFL Draft season with a lively discussion featuring NFL Network senior insider Ian Rapoport, who shares his deep expertise on the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. The episode opens with a flurry of sponsor intros before diving into the latest NFL drama, particularly the ongoing turmoil in Philadelphia surrounding A.J. Brown and Jalen Hurts. Hosts Clifford Taylor IV and Stugatz express confusion over the Eagles’ internal instability despite their recent Super Bowl success, with Rapoport suggesting a trade for Brown is likely, possibly to the Patriots, though timing may be delayed until after June 1st to manage cap implications. The conversation then shifts to draft analysis, with Rapoport highlighting top prospects like Fernando Mendoza, Makai Lemon, and emerging defensive talents such as Dylan Tanneman and Mansoor Delane. He also discusses the impact of off-field incidents, like Reuben Bain’s 2024 accident, noting teams have had ample time to conduct due diligence. Rapoport emphasizes the draft’s unique blend of excitement and stress, calling it his second-favorite sporting event after Augusta. The episode closes with reflections on media dynamics, the pressure of press conferences, and the unpredictable nature of sports reporting.
The Eagles are likely to trade A.J. Brown, possibly to the Patriots, but may delay the move until after June 1st to reduce cap penalties.
Fernando Mendoza is a strong number one overall pick candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders, with Rapoport believing he has the intangibles to succeed.
Makai Lemon is a top-tier wide receiver prospect, potentially falling to the Jets at pick 16, though his draft stock may be more in the 11–20 range.
Defensive talent is rising in the draft, with standout names like Dylan Tanneman (safety), Mansoor Delane (corner), and Freeling/Proctor (tackles) gaining traction.
The NFL Draft is now a multi-day event that allows for deeper analysis and real-time drama, making it a favorite for insiders like Rapoport.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor Breaks and Intro
Multiple podcast sponsors are introduced, including Humor Me with Robert Smigel and Friends, Sports Slice, The Clifford Show, the 1021 Podcast, Learn the Hard Way, Deeply Well with Debbie Brown, and Help From a Hypocrite, all promoting their shows on iHeartRadio and Apple Podcasts.
Eagles' Internal Turmoil: Brown, Hurts, and the Press Conference Game
“I think that's the way it's heading. It's just, you know, everyone's in a little bit of a standstill salary cap wise because, you know, for the Eagles they could do it now but they'd have to move some things around.”
Draft Analysis: Top Prospects and Rising Names
“I would say the tackles are probably rising. You know, Freeling from Georgia, Proctor from Alabama, and those are ones that I would say maybe top 20 now, maybe, you know, probably top 15.”
Draft Strategy, Trades, and Team Moves
“I would say probably Cowboys would be a team that could move up for an impact, you know, big time defensive talent.”
Rapoport’s Draft Passion and Media Life
Rapoport shares his deep love for the NFL Draft, calling it his favorite event after Augusta. He reflects on the pressure of breaking news, the reality of missing stories, and the balance between personal life and professional duty.
“I think that's the way it's heading. It's just, you know, everyone's in a little bit of a standstill salary cap wise because, you know, for the Eagles they could do it now but they'd have to move some things around.”
“I would say the tackles are probably rising. You know, Freeling from Georgia, Proctor from Alabama, and those are ones that I would say maybe top 20 now, maybe, you know, probably top 15.”
“I would say probably Cowboys would be a team that could move up for an impact, you know, big time defensive talent.”
Hosts
Guest
A.J. Brown
person
Ian Rapoport
person
Philadelphia Eagles
other
Las Vegas Raiders
other
Jalen Hurts
person
NFL Network
organization
Fernando Mendoza
person
Howie Roseman
person
Makai Lemon
person
Aaron Rodgers
person
Shadowbanned (w/ Marc Hochman)
Stugotz and Company • 31m • 3/31/2026
With Stugotz & Hoch: The Chuck Norris Episode
Stugotz and Company • 30m • 3/31/2026
Coaches in Shape (w/ Golic)
Stugotz and Company • 33m • 3/31/2026
The Best of Stugotz and Company LIVE!
Stugotz and Company • 54m • 3/31/2026
Encore: GBF- Day Drinking (w/ JuJu Smith-Schuster)
Stugotz and Company • 27m • 4/1/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “NFL Draft Season Is Finally Here (w/ Ian Rapoport)” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime