The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

How "all in" is too far all in?

Jun 8, 2026

Summary

Hosts Robert Mays and Derek, joined by producer Michael Bell, tackle Mailbag Monday questions about NFL team-building strategies. They analyze the "all-in" approaches of the Rams, Bengals, and Cowboys, debating the balance between trading draft capital for immediate contention versus long-term sustainability. The episode also explores the trend of trading premium picks for superstars, the potential impact of reversing the draft and free agency order, and humorous fan frustrations regarding recent player movements.

Topics discussed

Sponsors and Intro Going All-In: Rams vs. Other Contenders Team Strategies: Bengals, Cowboys, and Rams Free Agency Trends and Contract Values Hypothetical: Draft Before Free Agency Sponsors: Pack Apparel, Quince, and Baro Listener Question: Malort Seahawks vs. Rams: Super Bowl Narrative Undervalued Positions: Interior Line and Safeties Sponsors: Mars Men, CFA, and Bombas Edge Rusher Traits: Speed vs. Power New Offensive Coordinators: LaFleur and Doyle Outro and Final Sponsors
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