Episode #192 Alabama NFL Draft 2020 Recap

Stephen M. Smith from Touchdown Alabama and Justin Riley joins the show to recap Alabama players’ performance in NFL Draft 2020.

Show Notes

1. Tua Tagovailoa, Miami (No. 5 overall)
2. Jedrick Wills, Cleveland (No. 10 overall)
3. Henry Ruggs III, Las Vegas (No. 12 overall)
4. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Denver (No. 15 overall)
5. Xavier McKinney, S, New York Giants (No. 36 overall)
6. Trevon Diggs, CB, Dallas (No. 51 overall)
7. Raekwon Davis, DE, Miami (No. 56 overall)
8. Terrell Lewis, LB, Los Angeles Rams (No. 84 overall)
9. Anfernee Jennings, LB, New England (No. 87 overall)

• Jalen Hurts to Philadelphia Eagles
• James Winston officially signs with the Saints

Transcript

Santiago Leon
All sports cast April 28 2020. If you haven’t yet, please subscribe on all our channels YouTube, Periscope and iTunes. If you’re an iTunes, please leave a rating and review. It will help us out tremendously. And visit us on the sports cast dotnet the sports cast on net for the latest in free agency draft news, and some NBA news and also some wrestling we included wrestling recently because of the drama of sports. This episode is brought to you by instant Bible app download is the Bible on your iPhone, share verses to the world and and be blessed. Alabama, not the number one school that got drafted, it was actually LSU but Alabama is deep in talent. And they and almost all all of them got drafted this past weekend and to flesh things out. No No other persons that could No, no Alabama really well, inside and out. Justin Riley and Steven M. Smith, welcome to the sports cast.

Stephen M. Smith
Go ahead Justin

Justin Riley
Oh man, I was waiting for you to come in. Man. I’m excited. Just had a pretty big draft like you said. Glad to be joined by Stephen yet to talk football

Santiago Leon
before we get started wearing but yeah, go ahead, Steve. Tell you’re welcoming your introduction to the world right now.

Stephen M. Smith
I’m excited to be here. The draft was fantastic. Something new, especially virtually but got things going on things to talk about now.

Santiago Leon
Justin, I want to hear your quick recap. 60 seconds of what was your thoughts of this first virtual NFL Draft?

Justin Riley
Me personally, I actually enjoyed it a lot more. I know. It’s crazy to be saying that considering the money vacation we had, we didn’t have the big hoopla we didn’t have the the Big Show fireworks explosions and all that. Instead we were treated to a more intimate setting with the coaches gyms and prospects at home with their families just felt more relaxed to me. I really enjoy that aspect of it. And it was just great and a sense that we had a solid sports event to be watching and look forward to. Of course, like you already said brother, the SEC a complete Domino spearheaded by LSU I believe they have 14 pigs the SEC total had give or take 63 picks in all, which again, they lead all conferences and selections. I know that the folks outside the SEC nation who are wanting us to have a downfall are pretty upset because that’s not coming soon. So it was more like the SEC invitationals to the NFL Draft. But I enjoyed it man.

Santiago Leon
Before before we move forward, what else? He gets so much players? I know they just want a championship. But, I mean, if they didn’t win the championship with this talent be able to surpass in the draft. Let’s go Steven.

Stephen M. Smith
I still think I still think she would have probably gotten caught the amount of dives and just due to the needs that were in this particular draft, but what was crazy was to me is how are the NSU players and come off the board and so the second two middle rounds, the first guy that Joe ball off the board number one overall, they got Justin Jefferson to the Vikings. And last but not least, at the tail end there. They’ve got qlae Edwards is there I think, I think I think the nine backers snuck in their two packs with Queen snuck in there so they got three to four off the board in the post. Round I was expecting more so for that first round, you know, bam and NSU are kind of tied in man rounds. That’s when you saw more Tigers come off the ball.

Santiago Leon
Alabama was definitely a highlight but one of the biggest highlights was to attack a little boy. He was a first Alabama drafted. There was rumors you know, even days before that he might have dropped out of the top 10 we even said it on the show. But let’s get on Justin’s first reaction of what you thought when? When to I got drafted by the Miami Dolphins?

Justin Riley
Well, the tale of two emotions for me I’m not sure how it was for Steven, and I’ll explain it. I was pretty excited. First of all, he is drafted high. He was still in the in the top five and it seemingly all the doubts and all the chatter, gossip, whatever you want to call it was was blown away and he still held firm to that top spot. And that was with the Miami Dolphins now The other side of things. I am very worried about that selection isn’t a great fit for the organization. Absolutely. This is a guy that has unlimited potential has been compared to Drew Brees and quite potentially be the savior of the organization. But watching the Miami Dolphins draft, I was pretty concerned. Why am I concerned one? They have one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL Matter of fact last season they ranked 28th in pass protect. That’s not they gave up 56 sacks. That doesn’t bode too well. The guy that has durability concerns so I’m a little concerned. They sort of addressed it in the draft. I think they’re a little bit too late as far as addressing the offensive line need. They of course got Austin Jackson at USC Robert hunt in the second round from Louisiana Lafayette and Solomon Kinley from Georgia. Honestly, I felt like the dolphins could done a little bit better, maybe sacrifice. There are other topics in the first round, maybe a second round pick as well and moved up in the draft and gotten one of the more premier offensive tackles that are out there. That definitely will give me security and to his protection. Another thing that really stood out to me was outside of devaughn say Parker, the Miami Dolphins have nothing at water Seaver therefore given to and nothing to work with. And they didn’t address that need in the draft either. Matter of fact, at one till a seventh round, they actually drafted a wide receiver and that was Navy’s Malcolm Kelly. He’s great or he was very good. But he’s not exactly the big splatter, hoping for being a dolphins fan, but also being people who were pulling her toe to a toggle via loa. So those my main concerns as far as to being dragged to like I said, it was Happy and both concerned. I’m extremely excited for the young man glad for the opportunity. But I’m really concerned Now, on the other half of that if they decide to sit to this year, and just let him you know, come at the right time let the process work itself out. stead of rushing himself in everything I just said kind of gets pushed to the side. But if things don’t start going the way they had hoped it for hoped it would this season, and all of a sudden they’re trying to push too into the mix. Then my concerns become very valid.

Santiago Leon
Steven Smith, what was your first reaction when to get the fifth picks in Miami Dolphins.

Stephen M. Smith
I share the same sentiment I just did. I mean the first round her to allow us all to go. Number five overall I was overjoyed. I was happy for him. I think there was an article came out hours before the draft, talking about how to test his physical for the dolphin. So at that point, you kind of feel like All the smoke screens. We’re about to we’re about to come down and you know Brian Flores who was a Bill Belichick disciple, the head coach, now the dolphins was going to go and get his guy but at the same time going back to what Justin mentioned, the dolphins picked up decent offensive lineman not necessarily the best was in this draft of the Gotham USD, it’s still a little bit wrong to have to work on fine tune so the techniques in his game and for to the best thing for him would be to sit him up, got him he have a whole year of learning behind why Patrick? At the same time, it’s Gus Fitzpatrick go out there and crap the bed and mess up and then you have to really forced to out there or would be a situation where if they choose to spot play to at their spot, play him and they’ll fix touchwood does well to goes out through Wow, everybody, and everybody’s going well. We got to put it out there. So it’s gonna be interesting to save a dynamic that they choose to go with in terms of to I bought just seeing here my initial reaction can take and watch no thankfully, Miami was able to look past all the smoke screen and get somebody that went healthy. This is the next best thing since Dan Marino. Justin you

Santiago Leon
spanked the dolphins throw into on the first game started

Justin Riley
No, I’ll be very very shocked even though I think there’s gonna be enormous pressure to get him in right away just because everybody’s excited and they they’re just ready to see the dolphins take the next step back towards being elite. Hopefully, logic will step in and he won’t be playing right away. And like I said he be allowed to sit and just let the process work itself out. And let it be Fitzpatrick’s team for a while. Even if things don’t go according to plan or as fast as people would hope And then let to come in later but I don’t fully expect him to start.

Santiago Leon
I am uh, I mean I’m from Miami. I’m in Miami. I really do think that Fitzpatrick is the bridge for two. I really do think they’ll sit him out maybe the last two games they might start but the bright future is ahead. Steven What do you want the dolphins to do to the to protect to uh, obviously, you know, should the dolphins tank for another year and get some more players? Or what are your expectations for next season for to?

Stephen M. Smith
Well, I wouldn’t necessarily think tank because if you look at Brian Flores once again a bill banacek guy he’s not gonna believe in tanking by the biggest thing I like to see for the golf and is getting a couple of more really good offensive linemen but not just bad. You know, getting some good running backs in here. I know he had an office, they have mouths they have mouth gas, who came out of Washington a couple of years back you They really you know decent play a pretty good player but getting somebody that’s a real you know star studded marquee name running back in this draft craft in 2021 getting the running back can come in here and grow with to develop to and then drafting some of your more high end offensive lineman so not necessarily tag but you know get some more pieces around to protect to at the same time get that running back that you need that can handle, you know a load.

Santiago Leon
Justin, you mentioned about last season that the that the running back average, almost two yards per carry, um, do you think the dolphins gonna run it back?

Justin Riley
Do I think they need to run back without question but they also need an offensive line is gonna open up hold as well. You know, they actually ranked 27th in yards per game which is terrible. They also So got their run stuff 26% of the time. You know, they picked up Matt Breda, which is decent, but if you don’t have an offensive line, it’s gonna open up holes. It’s not gonna do him a bit of good and he’s a good he’s a talent. But it just surprised me too that the running back position as Steven mentioned was not addressed in this draft either. You lost you lost our boy from Alabama to Arizona this this past season Canyon Canyon Drake. I mean, incredible player. But what what answer did you have for that departure? Nothing. Your leading rusher for the dolphins last year was Ryan Fitzpatrick that’s that’s pitiful. That’s not the time but the dolphins didn’t address that need. And I’m equally curious as to why the dolphins while DJ Fluker is was you know out and about they didn’t pursue him at all. I’m excited as a ravens fan. Atlanta ravens. Great for me, but why didn’t the dolphins enter in the conversation? acquiring his services?

Santiago Leon
Well, we’ll say the Ravens talk a little bit later but I do have to point out the dolphins had to give up a lot this past year in order to get a lot of draft picks for this year, obviously I do agree with Justin and Steven that they did not use the pacifically for the running back. But position. What grade would you give the dolphins from this draft?

Santiago Leon
Steven?

Justin Riley
See?

Santiago Leon
Steven Smith.

Stephen M. Smith
I’m gonna go a b minus.

Santiago Leon
Okay, I was gonna say B. You know, not the greatest. I don’t know. Sure. Westar logic. There’s a lot of teams that pick some random players like the Raiders. Anyways, anything else about to before we head into Derek Willis.

Unknown Speaker
No one Good jedrek Willis

Santiago Leon
got selected by the Panthers at the eighth. Pick the browns.

Santiago Leon
I know. Yes the way it was the know the number 10 buddy.

Justin Riley
Yeah. Oh wow, they’re dogpound

Santiago Leon
Oh, okay. Derrick Brown. What are your first thoughts when the Browns got brown? Derek Willis sorry.

Stephen M. Smith
I’ll go ahead and take this. I was I actually liked this move by Cleveland. I mean, Cleveland is not a bad team. In terms of time. When you look at Baker Mayfield, Nick Chubb, Kareem Han, Odell Beckham, Jarvis Landry, they got David and Joe ku and they stole Austin Hooper from the Falcons so the Browns never had that. It’s just the organization is dysfunctional. So if they can ever get over that part of the coin that we can see something special turnout for the brass, but just the public Will’s a solid solid pick. You put him in that pack. He has never played that tackle before, but he’s learning he’s picking up some cues right now from the great. Joe Thomas, who played in the Browns for quite a long time was a perennial Pro Bowl guy. So he’s already from Joe Thomas right now, if he could adjust that left tackle spot, the Browns already adjusted the right tackle spot and get jet continent in the Titans. I like to move Justin Riley

Santiago Leon
jeddak will is going to Cleveland Browns he’s joining Baker Mayfield and OBJ Is that a good spot for him?

Justin Riley
Well, it’s absolutely a great spot for him and it’s absolutely phenomenal big by the Cleveland Browns in the aspect of yes like we just got through saying that Browns have phenomenal town across the board as one location that’s been offensive line. They’ve had a horrendous offensive line and they have haven’t addressed that. And if you’re really going to see where this Baker Mayfield project is going to go, you’re going to have to have an insurance policy or protection plan in order to get you know, get it off the ground. So here it comes edrick wills there’s gonna be a supply left tackle and I don’t think there’s gonna be any problem as far as adjusting goes. You know, if you play for Nick Saban, one thing that you’ve got to learn is to be versatile think he’ll have any problem there, but he’s just a mountain of a man they can just get the job done. And it’s a great start to getting this Baker Mayfield project off the ground, like I said, and he’s gonna be able to open up holes for some two great runners. And I think that he’s going to be a guy that will be in the league for at least 10 or 15 years. So great paid by the browns, actually projected this to happen. One of the few draft picks. I got right my mom,

Santiago Leon
so I’m pretty excited. We won’t mention where you put too, is key word Justin What I meant was Derrick brown going to the Carolina Panthers. Real quick just And what are your thoughts about him going there?

Justin Riley
So let me ask you this you want me to comment on an Auburn guy on an Alabama show? Oh gosh.

Santiago Leon
Okay get

Justin Riley
off of here Just let me and Steven take it okay so the way okay Never mind that you just committed a serious crime you know, they’ll pay for listening which I think they are they might be sitting fire outside your studio right

Santiago Leon
now. This is sec show guys. Congratulations for him. The highest paid for Auburn. Our credit to them. They’re doing well in town recruiting wherever you want to say it. Let’s go Henry rugs the third Justin going to Las Vegas Raiders the first wide receiver selected. We were thinking this would have happened. It did happen. First thoughts?

Justin Riley
Well, first of all, I’m glad that you got the right player in the right place. Second of all, Henry rugs was a guy that actually had come up with both the board first and this talented wide receiver class. Why is that? Well, Jon Gruden has no secret that he has been just incredibly jealous of the plethora of weapons that Andy Reid and his boys at Kansas City have. So he felt with this draft, he needed to stockpile to build combat that and what a way to start get the fastest player in the draft and Henry rugs. Again, I say four to seven speed is something worth mentioning several times, gives them a great weapon. And I also like how he went out and got some guys to play opposite of him to take pressure off and you got Brian Edwards from South Carolina and then also got the the versatile limb Bowden from Kentucky so that serves as a great compliment. Rob’s won’t have to be the guy assuming all the pressure off the bat, but also really excited about is that he’s gonna be teaming up with none other than his former Alabama teammate, Josh Jacobs So, all of a sudden by drafting rugs and combining them with the other draft picks, and Jacobs, you take offense that base was comparable to a Schwinn bike and upgraded to a Mazda rotti that’s that’s the way I see it now depending on which quarterback is there, and how that’s gonna pan out. It remains to be seen, but to be honest with you doesn’t matter is going to be Mariota or Derek Carr. It’s gonna be really hard to mess this up. I’m really excited that rugs is there.

Santiago Leon
Steven, how excited are you for rugs going to Las Vegas?

Stephen M. Smith
well forget about me. Let’s talk about the Al Davis family. Those are the ones are excited. I mean, our Dave is somewhere in his grave going they made the proud they because he’s because he’s always been your speed guy. And what was crazy was Mike Mayock. The GM The Raiders was at every Alabama practice or if not almost every Alabama practice last season he was on campus. I physically saw him a number of times walking around with Coach Saban having conversations talking about players. So you kind of had an idea that he was either mentioning Henry rods or mentioning a Trayvon Diggs mega Toria Lewis. Some players were thrown into the ear of Mike Mayock from Nick Saban. And to get a Henry Ross, somebody who not just ran four to seven, how about that 42 inch vertical young man and his his ability to attack the football this season as as much as I love Jerry, Judy, now do Henry Rollins was able to get off the ground and attack the football and make those contested 5050 touches quite a number of times in this career. So to have that type of guy that can not just take the top off the secondary and beat your deep, but if you gotta have a 5050 ball, Zoom Zoom rug can get it done.

Santiago Leon
Let’s move on to the New York Giants they pick Xavier. No, no sorry, Jerry, Judy. Go into the Denver Broncos, Justin. Now, the stick was Steven Gregg by the Broncos. People were predicting Jerry to go there or to New York. First thoughts

Stephen M. Smith
on this move by Denver, john Elway. He’s got the quarterback and drew Locke and what you have to do to help you knock out you give them some weapons. You already fought back courtland Sutton in 1000 yard season a year ago, you get arguably the best wide receiver in this draft the best route runner in this draft, the best combo receiver draft and it’s jus lock in the static line now. I mean, he was on Twitter shortly after the draft going Judy, you want to go with the playbook right now. You want to run routes right now. That link up with me right now. So we can get this thing top. And so when you look at the AFC West with Kansas City and the weapons Patrick mahomes has and now the Raiders are starting to stockpile. You look at what the FIFA charges have done with getting Justin Herbert to pass their guys. Drew lock with Jerry Judy and courtland Sutton. This Wow, AFC West has gotten a little bit crazier.

Santiago Leon
Justin who had a better deal. Was it the Broncos game Jerry Judy or, or Vegas gain rugs?

Santiago Leon
I mean, which I mean, which of the players got a better deal?

Justin Riley
Well, I mean, they both got a pretty good deal being drafted in the first round. But what’s really impressive is that as Jerry Judy going to the Denver Broncos, first and foremost, you got to ask was john Elway locked away in like a storage bin or something? Because he clearly wasn’t making these great picks. I mean, this isn’t typical. I am I’m just blown away by what how the Broncos were able to do in this year’s draft man, from top to bottom it was just quality pick up the quality pick. You know, Steven mentioned courtland Sutton had a decent year this past year as did his former number one draft pick on top and no offense but they just they needed more weapons. And it was clear that Jerry Judy was gonna be there God that made it known them at public. And by the grace of God, he was able to be available at that that pick. You know what I like about him? And I don’t know if I’m allowed to say this. I’m gonna say it anyway. The his ability to gain separation, the open field. He reminds me a lot of Jerry Rice. Just a little bit faster, though. Am I allowed to say that Steven.

Stephen M. Smith
You know what I mean? Yeah. If Greg, Greg, Come sail, who’s been doing NFLPA For all over 40 years of coal sale compare Henry rocks Isaac Bruce Go ahead. Yeah Jerry Judy the Jerry Weis

Santiago Leon
Wow, that’s almost too strong there Justin.

Justin Riley
I’m willing to step out on a limb and do this you know, his ability to be able to separate that. That’s very key and as Pat SHERMER on offense, and I like that he’s able to play both the slot and as well as on the boundary. And he’s able to, it means he can basically mix wherever he is in the mix wherever you need him to be. And what’s also great too, you got Colin’s telling you got Noah fan you got Jerry Judy, but they also went out and got another compliment to all that with Penn State’s Kj handler. So basically, if you need to know what that means, if there was a dishonor Jackson, let’s draft It was a gambler. He is about speed, speed and more speed and then they went out and got that another tight in the key of that Missouri. So this all offense is set up to be something very special. And Haven’t you, Judy? pioneering that this offense? Man look out drew Locke is about to become a Pro Bowl quarterback.

Santiago Leon
The New York Giants needed to safety and they got one of the top safeties from college football. Xavier McKinney. Stephen Is that a good spot for Xavier?

Stephen M. Smith
That was the perfect spot for x. I mean, as far as I thought he was going to be a cowboy. I really want him to go $17 of course New England and pick 23 trades out. So you look at the giants who recently lost Landon Collins, who’s now with the Washington Redskins access kind of Landon 2.0. The difference is Landon and college Alabama was moreso thought of they bought safety not much for comfort safety. He didn’t get better and his coverage scales until we got to the league. Add some terms of coverage has that down that day. Don’t pack right now you can play in coverage. You can plan the box. You can stop the wall. You can pick and Blitz the quarterback if need be. And the coach of the Giants Joe judge from 2009 to 2011. He was a special teams assistant at Alabama. So Joe judge with Alabama tide gets what? Exactly McKenna’s Alabama tie. This is nice right here.

Santiago Leon
Justin Xavier McKinney. Will he make the New York Giants better?

Justin Riley
That goes question. I know I’m really surprised that he was available in the second round. I don’t understand that’s absolute crap. What was that Justin? Yeah, I I don’t know. Because you know what? There were there were a few players I saw in that first round who were reaches. And I’m being very serious. They were reaching and this isn’t me having a bias towards Xavier McKinney or any other Alabama player in this draft. There are some guys that really could have been available in the second round. And definitely the third round. They were slow. Didn’t the first and I feel like Xavier was fairly ousted here. But you know what he’s about to make them all pay?

Santiago Leon
Was it because this draft was deep in talent?

Justin Riley
It was demon talent, but he’s no one safety on the board. He’s one of those talented players that were in this draft. He should have been first round. There’s no question about that. You know, there’s only have been five safeties to play of over 450 snaps in the box slot and free safety over the past two years. And only five of those produces 70% plus grade at all those alignments in Xavier McKinney was one of those guys. You know, for the giants, it was actually a pressing need. But when you have a guy like McKinney available, you’ve got to throw those knees out the window and steal them and they did do that. And I’m telling you, he’s about to make him pay. And it’s funny is that the same thing kind of happened like Stephen said a few years back when They were able to steal Landon Collins out of the second round. However, I feel like a lot of other people feel like that. Xavier may be a little bit better than Collins. And this is the guy you really want in your defense he does. He doesn’t have to get motivated or be motivated. He does on his own. He comes to play every snap. He has a non stop motor. And he was really one of the three key guys that I felt this past season when the defense was in disarray. He really held them together. But and I love the pairing with him with jabril peppers man that’s gonna be incredible to watch. I think they did. It is and you know your Brill’s price to their thinking,

Justin Riley
thank God.

Santiago Leon
Guys,

Justin Riley
the Giants 28th in the NFL against the past in 2019 and 25th and total defense. This gives us a severe upgrade.

Santiago Leon
Steven Stephen Smith Yeah. I mean that safety, you know, Can you get drafted to a second round Were you surprised about that too? Or you really think this draft was pretty deep in talent

Stephen M. Smith
about the draft is deep and tired but I was shocked to see go the second round because you look at the Cowboys 17 they end up getting a weapon to go with Dak Prescott and CD lamb and sitting there was a big time wide receiver Don’t get me wrong, but the Cowboys have had issues in their secondary for the longest time and though they’re not haha Clinton dicks on a one year deal. They needed another safety and they did not make the move. You look at the Patriots at pic 23 though I know they love to trade out of picks in the first round. Devin mccourty and Patrick Chung aren’t getting any younger. They both turn 32 years old. To start the upcoming season. You need it some young depth there in the secondary and some young title defense, especially after Danny Shelton dawn Jamie Collins gone Yeah, call bad boy dawn also. So it’s just crazy how, you know, he dropped it a second roll call on I’m challenging this draft. But yes, I will feel shocked.

Santiago Leon
Justin, another team that had a good draft was a Dallas Cowboys. Jerry Jones selected Trayvon Diggs, how, like how much of a gift or treat is that for Jerry?

Justin Riley
Man is an absolute steal. Again, this is a guy that that many fell, including myself there was going to be a bit in the first round and he was actually brought trending upwards. The closer we got to the draft, and it was just absolutely shocking to see him available on day two in the second round. This is a guy that they desperately needed, they needed to address a secondary that is just absolutely pitiful. And this is a guy that gives them boost immediately can step on the field right away, can help turn things around. So I’m pretty excited for him and I’m excited that the Cowboys who had an excellent raft made that decision.

Santiago Leon
Stephen can Trayvon Diggs turn things around in Dallas?

Stephen M. Smith
I absolutely believe he Tam is the guy that sticks to a lot of men. But now that’s another great ball skills. There’s still some areas of his game he needs to clean up because he’s still a little bit Ra. Keep in mind, he did not become a full time defensive back and I’m a Bellman to 2018. And he got hurt. So he really didn’t play much that see that. And then 2019 this past year was his first full year. Being healthy being a dB. He’ll be paired up with haha Clinton Dix was the ultimate Pro. That’ll help him. He will also rejoin Amari Cooper. So they’ll battle some things out and practices that’ll help him out as well. So good move there for Jerry. Good move. Good landing spot there for Trayvon and then take it back off of

Justin Riley
that. Point, please. Steve, you brought up a point A lot of people don’t really recognize Everything outside the Alabama nation. He used to play wide receiver he didn’t really become a defensive back until late in the game but just of his sure athleticism and incredible ability, he was able to make that transition pretty quickly. So he has a tremendous ceiling right now. And what I really like about him is his length. You know, he may get get possibly out of position or maybe even get beat but he’s able to recover quickly. But also to he can lay out for a ball because of his size, his length, he could pass away and I’ve seen him do that numerous times with Alabama and that’s something that is going to come in pretty handy and the NFL,

Santiago Leon
the Dallas Cowboys is definitely looking pretty Dak has weapons have more, or weapons in their defense. They got a new coach, Mike McCarthy, so things are looking bright in Dallas. We’ll see what happens. Let’s go down to Miami Dolphins, select a second Alabama player, a man named Raekwon Davis, does this had the stamp of approval for Justin?

Justin Riley
Well, I’m really sorry for awake one. You know, for some of us, we felt like he may sneak into the first round, but for the rest of the folks, he landed about where they felt he would land. And I feel like he has a tremendous upside. It was really disappointing at tremendous season. He had back in 2017, that he kind of drifted away a little bit his final two seasons, his production what, what a lot of people would like to fall in that phenomenal year, but he’s still a very talented guy. And the dolphins absolutely need some help up front. I mentioned previously that they’re one of the worst when it comes to all offense. Well, it doesn’t really fare much better for them on the defensive side of the ball. You know, they actually ranked last in several categories, you know, they allow 30 plus nine points per game, and their average allowing 397.8 yards total per game. So the and they really don’t have anybody there. They’re horrible against the run right now they have they’ve on go and Christian Wilkins who was a topic here recently, but they just combined for four sacks and seven tackles for loss, which really isn’t making much of a difference.

Justin Riley
You know,

Justin Riley
bringing him into the mix is gonna make that defense defensive line immediately upgraded and who knows maybe they get off the wheel and turn this thing around. I mean, he’s a big guy, six foot six 311 pounds, man he can fill a gap by himself. He’s He’s somebody that they really need and they got him so I’m pretty excited about that and pretty motivated himself. A lot of people question his motivation at times. Well, the lucky grinding problem with that. He feels like he’s gonna become what the Look at the year the coming season so I’m ready to see it.

Santiago Leon
Steven can is Raekwon Davis a key piece for the future development of the Miami Dolphins

Stephen M. Smith
it just comes down so how bad does he wanna because going back with Justin mentioned at the 2017 season we were expecting a first round caliber production from David it did not happen 10 years I just this mean he did not make improvement in other areas that he didn’t do but just the overall nuts in terms of sacks tackles for loss quarterbacks those numbers just were not there and he looked at me he’s gonna more than likely have to play defensive tackle may not be the best guys to play taco to gaps on my way through create some stops on running backs affect the quarterback ever so often bought Brian Flores once again bill better check guy will get the most out of a quote. We’ll try to get the most out of Ray Quan. We’ll see what happens.

Santiago Leon
Let’s move down a little bit further and the draft that number 84th pick, the Los Angeles Rams pick Tyrell, Louis. Justin, do you really think he was gonna be a first rounder as well?

Justin Riley
Absolutely Did you know The biggest thing was were those injuries and they were serious injuries and his body was a big question to everybody. If he wouldn’t have gotten hurt, he probably would have been top 10 pick, you know, and this is the guy they showed us from the oldest of his career Don’t be something special back to you, Steven and myself had in that day game, man that guy was a guy we didn’t really know much about I was sudden he’s making pick sixes and we’re looking at our roster and we’re seeing looking with this guy. lose this freak of nature. And, and he’s just that and he’s exactly what The Rams were neat and they just lost three key starters. Their free agency those Dante Fowler, Cory Littleton and Michael breakers, which my ravens got. But the Ravens on one. Yeah, the Ravens guy. I’m pretty excited about that.

Santiago Leon
We’re having the Ravens podcast later on guys, but please continue Justin.

Justin Riley
I’m sorry for my little shameless plugs there. But he’s a guy that they really need. The guy’s six foot five 262 pounds. Incredible, burst off the line of scrimmage. And he kind of reminds me a little bit of Chandler Jones. You know, and they had to take a chance on him. I feel like eventually he’s gonna be a guy that’s gonna become a star in this league. And I feel like the ceiling is just incredibly high for him. And how do you not got hurt? I think that you, you mentioned him up there with Chase young. And I think within a year or two, he’s gonna end up being a double digit sack guy. So I still You probably have and I’ve been on his team for the longest and not a strong advocate of him being drafted in the first round. People didn’t share that, but I’m still holding on to the fact this guy is an absolute stud just in YouTube bias.

Justin Riley
I am

Santiago Leon
a submit who’s next were your thoughts about Terrelle Lewis going to the Los Angeles Rams with their new stadium.

Stephen M. Smith
I thought I’d offer the Rams got a first round timer in the third round. And look, we get a chance to learn from it gets a chance to learn from one of the best interior pass rushers in the game right now. And Aaron Donald will of course keep in mind he’s back with a Shaun Robinson Robinson who maps the Detroit Lions to sign a two year deal with the Rams another form of a former Bama guy so you got a Shawn you got Aaron Donald, both of those two are gonna take him under their wing if he can stay healthy. If he can find The way to stay healthy this was a steal for the Rams and in a division where you got Russell Wilson you got Kyler Murray you got you know quite the amount of really good quarterbacks he got sacked those guys to run there was a guy that can SAP those guys.

Santiago Leon
And lastly for Alabama players Anthony Jennings went a little bit later, three spots later to the New England Patriots or I like to call the Bill Belichick patriots. Dustin did the Patriots have had the best pick that night with Anthony Jennings.

Justin Riley
I think that the Anthony James is probably one other better pigs here are drawing other they did pretty good.

Santiago Leon
Like the pictures daga picking them. Okay that

Justin Riley
I believe he was

Stephen M. Smith
No! No bill, no bill kick the dog.

Santiago Leon
Oh, that’s right.

Justin Riley
Oh, I think what it was is a nick gave him a call and said look, get your get your tail computer and you Make this pick. That was when the dollar was gone. But he was wanting to what I felt was three the Patriots good picks, feels like they got a package deal with Anthony Jennings and then Josh ha out of Michigan. Of course they also got you still he taught him with phenomenal player if he had had chance to watch him. He really should. He’s going to be an excellent player for the Patriots in the offense but Jennings man, he’s one of my favorite players to watch. Yeah, he’s a very versatile player, and he was like one of the strongholds of the Alabama defense. And he has been for the past several years been there

Santiago Leon
before me. Yeah, go ahead. Are you finished?

Justin Riley
No, no, not at all. Okay, this guy and he he’s a strong dude. I mean he’s he can stop the run any given moment he’s a linebacker guys if no one knows. Thank you, sir. But impressive strength. Great technique. He’s a guy who can just shove people out of the way whenever he feels like it and take down a runner and make a life a living nightmare for him. They like for him to improve a little bit on his pass rush. But I feel like something that’s something he will improve. And if he’s not impacting the quarterback directly, he’s still called bits in the game. He’s batten down, when it needs to be made and things has always been there, and he’s got a great motor, you don’t have to worry about quitting him. He’s going 100% every snap, and I think that he really just fits in well, with that defense by Bill Belichick and what’s really exciting. He’s also going to be next to a former Alabama great and I’m really excited about that.

Santiago Leon
Steven, aren’t Are you excited about Anthony Jennings going to New England Patriots.

Stephen M. Smith
This is this is the most patriots pick. Of all the battle players because New England’s not splashed New England’s not sex appeal their hard hat, get it done getting the grind getting the graded getting the trenches just get it done by failing and that’s Anthony Jennings and this is the guy that got better each year that he was at Alabama. He had a horrible leg injury against Clemson and the 2017 CFP semi final almost lost his leg thankfully, we have a training staff with Jeff Allen and got the Angie’s were able to say that lay again. You know this past season. his senior year, the young man exploded 83 tackles. map a team in tackles for loss of 12 and a half eight sacks. You know, a quarterback hurries like Justin mentioned was one of the key pieces as to why they’re Alabama finishing the top 20 for scoring defense and total defense and not just being with one done to high power but Benny sunseri who’s back with the Patriots as a question Money control coach, I think Bailey had something to do with Bill Belichick making this pic so happy to see Anthony in New England. He’ll take over for the cow bad boy well,

Santiago Leon
Justin, if you could put a Do Not Disturb on your phone because I’m hearing a lot of text message beep vibrations. So there’s a note. Okay, before we head on to Jalen hertz. There’s a question from the comments. Which Bama player Do you feel was a steal of the draft? Let’s go with Stephen.

Stephen M. Smith
Whooo as much. As much as I would like to say that Jalen was a steal to the Eagles. Give me to rail Lewis at pick 84 I’m just saying this is not for the injuries. This was a first round pick and him going to the Rams with Aaron Donald and a Shawn Robinson a healthy t Lu one Child, this could be a perennial pro ball no a Defensive Player of the Year at some point Canelo is gonna be the real deal if he stays healthy

Santiago Leon
factorial knows Justin Riley Who do you think was the Bama player that got the stick? I mean which Bama player Do you feel was still of the draft

Justin Riley
I’m really torn because you know there are at least three guys that I could really name that could be considered Steel’s but the only one. you going to let me talk tonight? You know you can go with x man I you know drop into the second round which is absolute crime. It shouldn’t have happened. But I gotta I gotta go with Stephen man Terrelle Lewis This is a guy that if it weren’t for those injuries, he would have been a top 10 pick maybe a top 10 player, top five player and he could have been regarded in the same conversation as a chase young and if he’s healthy. This guy’s going to be an absolute disaster. For people, and he’s gonna make a lot of quarterbacks lives a living nightmare and maybe, and that was shortened shortening a few quarterbacks lives and careers. So I’m really excited to see what he’s gonna do and he’s really motivated right now, because some folks are counting them out. And this is a guy you don’t want to bet against. I’m pretty excited about it. Darrell Lewis.

Santiago Leon
As we know, Jalen hertz wasn’t our band player. He was a graduate transfer to Oklahoma, but a lot of Alabama fans still consider him a Alabama player. He got selected by the Eagles in the second round, pretty surprising. A lot of people were saying probably third, but he was the only quarterback being drafted in the second round. Let’s go. Give the Justin I know he’s really sentimental about this.

Justin Riley
I’m telling you, man. I really was about to go out and buy that Daniel more painting of Jalen winning that that Georgia game just because I’m just really excited about the show man and, man What a great story. Probably It is one of the best stories ever in the history of college football. And, you know, this is a guy that just really humbled himself and just stuck with the process even when things just didn’t go his way. And yet, and we’re in a day and age where the things that Jalen did, taking a step back, holding the clipboard sitting on the sidelines, and learning that it’s just unheard of, you know, a majority the time whenever players get slotted or fill out, they’re being slighted than just the least. They take their toys and they’re going to another place. Not Jalen, this guy’s a warrior. I’m so excited for him and I was kind of surprised he went to Philadelphia, I actually thought he would end up with the Steelers, which would have made a lot more sense just because they they need to take care of that quarterback need they need somebody that potentially could be future for them once Big Ben retires, but he’s going to the City of Brotherly Love the city of Rocky Balboa. And my gosh, is fine we say Rocky Balboa because con they kind of had the same type of story going on between them and and he’s the underdog that everyone’s cheering for. I’m kind of curious though, how he’s gonna fit into the plans with the Eagles but what Doug Pearson’s gone do with them curious to see exactly what his mindset was. We know that Carson Wentz does have some injury issues. And if Jalen was one of the insurance policy, I can’t talk I’m so excited, then that definitely makes sense. But Jalen can be utilized in a number of ways not just a quarterback. You know, he could be a run out of the backfield he can lob his slot. I can do a lot of different things. You look I think you kind of have to with someone with with Jason’s talent, you’ve got to have him on the field. And as many ways as you possibly can also to from a leadership aspect, he brings a lot to her to an organization. And I really like what he’s about in that aspect. But I’m just I’m just thrilled he’s there. I’m thrilled he’s in the NFL. You know, a lot of people even in our little sports cast village here, didn’t think that he was going to be a second round guy. I’m the one who still believed in him. I also thought he may have gone first rounders snuck into the first round, but he didn’t. But my

Santiago Leon
my initial thought was second round and here he is. He’s with the Eagles. Steven, how happy were you or shocked that the Jalen hertz went to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Stephen M. Smith
I was thrilled and a funny story. I didn’t get a chance to see or watch Jen and get drafted because I was in the role. So my God, call me Client she calls me crying she’s like oh my gosh oh my God is so good. Yes, I’m like my tea is just balling on the phone on my it did you drop the fried chicken on the ground? Fried chicken. Thank God you didn’t drop fried chicken from with this ball and you know on the phone but I am so thrilled for Jay it’s kind of like no adjuster mentioned. This is somebody that went through a lot. I mean, there could be an ESPN 30 for 30 documentary just on jaded hearts just the mentality that he had to talk this out he had even though things that not seem to go his way. Did not get too hot, not get too low, kept the same face and this is a guy that can go to to different programs and be loved and not everybody gets that he can come to Tuscaloosa, Alabama and be loved. He can go to Norman Oklahoma and be not because he did great things. Both programs now, if he brought up the fact that Carson Wentz has the injury history he does. But he also has about $128 million and 101 hundred mega that is guaranteed money so Philly does believe in Carson Wentz. But at the same time from start to finish, Carson Wentz has not gotten them to that Super Bowl yet and won the Super Bowl as the guy they need to have Nick foles kind of help out there. So hopefully carsick cafe healthy players out to the young man because he has a tremendous talent, but you get a Jager, hard to take 53 to see what he can do. See how you can use him. I was thrilled but more so thrilled to master With with my eyes that that woman was overjoyed

Justin Riley
tell you man as soon as that happened, brother I felt like I was in church about to have a praise break man. I was so excited. We’re even more so than even. I mean I was dance I’m not gonna lie. I was excited even more so than the other about other Alabama graphics. And people probably sit here listening. I just got serious. I’m sorry man. Love me some Jalen and and you just can’t ask for a better story. And another incredible chapter in this young man’s life and I was just ecstatic for him. A heartfelt moment. I was really excited when the dolphins selected to attack a low I think it

Santiago Leon
was I was telling everyone like the very next morning it felt like it was morning again in Miami. Yeah, I know the whole talk about their ability but I think this guy like Jeff Darlington really said it really correctly and I kind of agree with him, that he brings that alpha male you know that That leadership that that role, you know, I mean, we haven’t had a quarterback since Dan Marino. So this is really, really excited for the, you know, for the like for the Miami Dolphins organization for the fan base. And I really hope that we, you know, could keep them healthy. And hopefully he’ll make the right decision. So hopefully he’ll it will have slide able to avoid a tackle. And obviously, we do have to invest in some lineman, but only only through time I’m patient, but I feel like we’re back in 1984 again, so you were young in San Diego. No, I wasn’t that was that was a year before I was born, but has that Dan Marino feel? And now everyone’s asking what number he will wear. Of course he can’t wear number 13 but

Justin Riley
I think he’s worthy.

Santiago Leon
He could but that Jersey is retired sacred. Any closing words guys have this Alabama draft? What is the best draft for Alabama players or We’ve seen better ones in the past. Let’s go Justin.

Justin Riley
wasn’t the best one. I don’t know if you could write classifies the best one. I think if you want to classifies anything, it’s it’s business as usual, just another testament of the dynasty that the Coach Saban has built in Tuscaloosa, the football capital of the universe. And does it look as though is going to be slowing down anytime soon. You have, you know, non players that are going to be contributing significantly to the respective NFL franchises. These guys aren’t just gonna be there, filling out roster spots and collecting a check. These guys are going to be on the field contributing and gaining Pro Bowls. Even Super Bowl, believe that if to a top lower has the right people around him. He has that protection which is so dire. Give Man protection, get him some receivers, get him a running bag or two and just make his job a lot easier. And then I’m telling you, if you really invest in your number one pick is going to pay huge dividends. But this really was an exciting drag. I think the biggest of it all for Alabama fans and yes, we still claiming was Jalen Hart’s being drafted, you know, not just second round. The fact you know, he’s getting his, he is getting exalted as it says in first year five, six, and do time because he did the right things. And when you’re doing the right things, you’re going to get rewarded and I feel like this man is about to take off into a whole nother direction. And I’m really excited to see what he’s gone into. I think Jason’s going into Windows Super Bowl.

Santiago Leon
Wow. Big, big, big goal to achieve. Steven, what are your closing thoughts over this year’s Alabama’s performance in the NFL Draft?

Stephen M. Smith
I thought I thought this was a good tryout there have been a few others in the past that may have had bigger numbers but Nick Saban was a the my history in this draft and getting all 22 positions drafted in the first round, you know, to a tongue about Go on, give him that history at the quarterback position. But now two guys that didn’t get drafted. But I was very proud of Jared maiden and Shaheen Carter, both of those two young man signing free agency contracts, you know, made and going with the San Francisco 40 Niners card and signing one with the New York Jets. So even though those did not good chance to hear their names called Nick Saban still doing business and even if you’re not getting drafted, he’s helping to get on NFL roster. He’s helping you make an NFL camp. So this is a huge recruiting tool for these young athletes that want to know, where’s the program that I need to go to where I know how to shop and get drafted. Nick Saban once again, check it out the box so you need to have your budget Barack Obama,

Santiago Leon
very consistent with recruiting with talent, and they’re non stop. That’s one of the first things that Nick Saban data when he came into the Alabama program. He started with the recruitment department. Let’s get the best players and they’re digging through. Yeah, they might get second every year. But hey, I rather be second in like and then like the eighth or 10th spot right behind Georgia, but you know, it kind of rotates back and forth. And of course, we’re seeing that right now with Mara crystal. He’s definitely getting a good recruitment, ground game going and we’ll see what things are brewing up and up in the Northwest. random question of the day. Who is your favorite superhero? The choices are Superman, Batman, Spider Man or Wolverine. We’ll give it to the guests tonight. Steven, who is your favorite superhero from those four.

Stephen M. Smith
Whoo. Here we go. Superman. Gotta go. Go Superman. It was a tie between Superman and Wolverine. Because I’m a huge Wolverine guy, I pride myself in being a feisty individual. So there but you know what, let’s go Superman.

Santiago Leon
Justin Riley Who do you have whose fair superhero Superman Batman Spider Man Wolverine.

Justin Riley
That’s a strong names there. And I’m really disappointed that Wolverine is not getting as much love as he should on this poll. I’ve been keeping up with it here. Because I’m a Wolverine guy. I’ve always been a big fan of Wolverine. He kind of got me into the whole superhero genre and the whole book world. He’s just a fierce guy, a beast, strong.

Stephen M. Smith
Boy, y’all gotta add Captain America on there.

Santiago Leon
We will next year for national superhero day.

Justin Riley
Okay, I think Deadpool as well. Now, I always been a big fan of Wolverine and by association the x men.

Santiago Leon
Batman is winning 30.1% second place Superman 30 3.3 which is my choice there play Spider Man at 23.8 and Wolverine is a distant last place a 4.8% you got 16.8 you got Spider Man Really? Yeah, he’s well yeah, but there’s 16 hours left so if you guys are listening go to the twitter.com forward slash sports cast one scroll down Wolverine Wolverine powers get Wolverine somewhere in

Justin Riley

20. Please get more. How do you get more? Wolverine? The guy’s got claws. He’s got the healing factor. Man. He can wipe out mass number of people by himself. Ain’t Come on now. Breaking News, James.

Santiago Leon
Winston. James Wilson has officially signed with the New Orleans Saints. Guys. Any thoughts on that?

Justin Riley
You will take this first or shala

Stephen M. Smith
i’ll go ahead. Good. Decent pick up there for Sean Payton. It’s a one year Do this be the backup the Drew Brees combat bridging quarterback but my thing here is with the saints also signing tell you some healed with a two year $21 million deal 16 mil guaranteed is jameis Winston The Braves quarterback for potential tape from jail here.

Santiago Leon
That’s a good question. Justin. What are your thoughts? Yeah, I mean Keep in mind this is a pickup for Winston he I heard he had other bigger offers. But I heard he want to go to the saints to get himself groom that there Drew Brees, I guess he’s you know, playing some Yeah,

Justin Riley
I understand. I think that didn’t the Steelers offer him a multi year deal and turn it down. I didn’t hear that. But I was surprised. I, you know, at this point in his career, you know, he has to take a situation like this and just really sit back and just reevaluate every thing and get himself together. I think you can’t ask for a better situation. And that situation being humbling yourself and learning under perhaps one of the best to ever pay play the game at the deposition Drew Brees and I just think if he just really spent some time just learning and being groomed to do the right things that he actually made turn his career around he actually he may may end up being that elite quarterback that he was projected to be coming out of Florida State. You know, this lesson we’re going to learn about Jamison the next next year. Now is the the stop gap you know, between Drew Brees and possibly taysom Hill possibly you know, the saints may actually be doing this to see if Jamie’s can actually ascend to the next level and be a leader of that. The game and be a guy who can take over for Drew Brees and not take not take his place because how do you take the place of a legend? You really don’t you just move forward with a different person but I think this is a this is a this is an experiment on both sides but the saints and jamis if anything I think that jamis can capitalize a lot just by humble themselves and just taking this time to really learn great arm grace strength obviously he’s you know, throws a lot of yardage this past season but also that a lot of interceptions as well. really random player if you do NFL Draft, he will be if he pick. You know one game he’ll give you like a lot of points one game he was just you know, destroy your pointage anyways, that is the breaking news for the sports cast. Steven Steven Smith, what is the best way to reach you to talk to you about the Crimson Tide?

Stephen M. Smith
People can reach me Touchdown Alabama magazine. Our site is touchdown, alabama.com, touchdown alabama.com. And they can get all the insight and information. They can also reach me every Monday, Wednesday and Friday as i doing the show in my own worst podcast, Monday, Wednesday and Friday 6pm Central Time via YouTube. In my own words to podcast, be sure to go to the touchdown Alabama magazine YouTube side, hit that subscribe button turn on those notifications so that we can get you with your commentary. Your updates a little comedy here and there on your Crimson Tide.

Santiago Leon
Yes, I gotta show I actually participated this past week on the show. And it’s, it’s really great. It’s comical. It’s entertaining, entertaining, but also very, very knowledgeable of what’s going on with Alabama sports. Justin Riley, what is the best way to reach you talk to to talk to all about your tic Tock account.

Justin Riley
Oh, that’s the that’s the head liner hear me? My tick my Tick Tock clips. Oh, first of all, I didn’t know that you appeared on the show, man You didn’t tell me about that

Santiago Leon
it was last it was last week I think was it was on Wednesday, which, which was like the night before the draft had a great time we’re talking about where we’re two ago and I think I said Miami. I don’t know what I said.

Justin Riley
That was on the previous segment.

Santiago Leon
I said New England. Yeah, so maybe New England. But Patriots are pretty weird and draft but they could be lucky. Cuz they did pick Tom Brady in the fifth or sixth round.

Justin Riley
They did. And I was on there to NASA for if I’m not mistaken. Steve. Is that right?

Stephen M. Smith
Yes. You were talking about a surreal moment that night?

Justin Riley
Yeah, man. Good way. So you had the you had the sports cast crew man represent. But uh, as far as getting in contact with me, you can follow me on twitter at Justin rally seven. And then also I’m helping run the sports cast Twitter account as well as our Instagram account that’s at the sports cast one.

Santiago Leon
And you can reach us at the sports cast dotnet the sports cast net for the latest and of course will Justin say the sports cast Twitter at the sports cast one on Thursday we’ll have we’ll have Justin and Tyler to discuss who had a better draft night to or Justin Herbert. But can’t wait for that one. But yeah, guys, thank you very much for a good night. Obviously Alabama had a great draft night I thought and is great to have these recaps shows. I can’t wait for next year. Haven’t I got here?

Transcribed by https://otter.ai