Best Makin A Difference Podcasts (2026)

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Up In Smoke 1:28:31

Play Pause

1d ago1:28:31

1:28:31

The road to the Super Bowl goes through Seattle. After the Seahawks clinched the No. 1 seed with a win over the 49ers, Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down how it happened – and why Seattle looks poised to make a Super Bowl run. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on the victory cigars in the locker room, the run game b…

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One Big Thing & Seahawks vs. 49ers Preview w/ Grant Cohn (Publisher of 49ers on SI) 1:12:58

6d ago1:12:58

1:12:58

On this episode of One Big Thing, Christopher looks at the future of the Seahawks’ running back room and whether the team is leaning toward Zach Charbonnet as RB1. Mike discusses the impact of AJ Barner, who had a big day against the Panthers and will be key to Seattle’s success in the 49ers rematch. To preview the rematch, Grant Cohn of 49ers on S…

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Ground & Pound 1:40:07

8d ago1:40:07

1:40:07

Led by a championship-level defense, the Seahawks dominated the Carolina Panthers and kept control of the NFC’s top seed. Michael-Shawn and Christopher answer listener questions and voicemails on the latest defensive showing, Sam Darnold’s turnovers, Zach Charbonnet’s career day, DeMarcus Lawrence’s impact, Seattle’s offense struggles in first halv…

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One Big Thing & Seahawks vs. Panthers Preview w/ Joe Person (The Athletic) 1:02:56

13d ago1:02:56

1:02:56

In this edition of One Big Thing, Christopher explains why he believes Sam Darnold exorcised his demons against the Rams and how that’ll help the Seahawks make a run. Mike declares that the Seahawks are going to make a run – all the way to the Super Bowl, because they’re a complete team on offense, defense and special teams. Later in the show, Pant…

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Darnold Delivers 1:25:36

18d ago1:25:36

1:25:36

Sam Darnold delivered in the clutch and the Seahawks are currently kings of the NFC. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down Seattle’s 38-37 overtime win over the Rams on national TV. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on Sam’s performance, Klint Kubiak’s play calling, Seattle making a Super Bowl run, Rashid Shaheed’s gam…

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One Big Thing 41:29

20d ago41:29

41:29

In this episode of One Big Thing, Christopher details what the tape says about the Seahawks’ run game, which had one of its worst performances in the team’s 18-16 win over the Colts. Looking ahead to Week 16, Mike breaks down 3 keys to beating the Rams: Maximizing play-action concepts, feeding JSN in the red zone and blanketing Puka Nacua the same …

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Jus Kickin' It 1:42:19

22d ago1:42:19

1:42:19

Seattle’s defense and clutch kicking by Jason Myers led to the team’s 4th straight victory. The Seahawks are playing winning football, but is it good enough to make a championship run? Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss Seattle’s 18-16 win over the Colts and answer listener questions and voicemails on another slow start on offense, Klint Kubiak’…

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One Big Thing & Colts vs. Seahawks Preview w/ James Boyd (The Athletic) 1:07:35

27d ago1:07:35

1:07:35

Rashid Shaheed’s breakout game and Devon Witherspoon’s dominance lead this week’s episode of One Big Thing. After watching the tape, Christopher dives into the ways Seattle got its speedy No. 2 receiver involved in a blowout win over Atlanta. Mike breaks down Spoon’s big day and how Mike Macdonald has this defense playing at an elite level. Later, …

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Cruising to Contention 1:34:32

29d ago1:34:32

1:34:32

The Seahawks blew out the Falcons 37-9 and continue to look like championship contenders. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down the lastest rout while answering listeners' questions and voicemails on: Seattle’s path to the Super Bowl, whether this style of play is sustainable, Sam Darnold’s turnovers, Nick Emmanwori’s breakout game, Rashid Shahe…

1
One Big Thing & Seahawks vs. Falcons Preview w/ Tori McElhaney 1:13:17

1M ago1:13:17

1:13:17

Rashid Shaheed’s usage and Seattle’s elite interior D-line play headline this week’s One Big Thing segment after Christopher and Michael-Shawn rewatched the tape of the Seahawks’ shutout win over the Vikings. Chris breaks down the ways Seattle could have gotten their speedy new wideout involved on a day the offense struggled to generate big plays. …

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Living In The Death Zone 1:34:51

1M ago1:34:51

1:34:51

The Seahawks introduced the Vikings to the “Death Zone” with a 26-0 victory on Sunday. Michael-Shawn and Christopher recap Seattle’s latest win and how it sets up the Seahawks to potentially win the NFC West. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on Seattle’s dominant defense, Mike Macdonald’s decision-making, the Vikings shu…

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One Big Thing & Vikings vs. Seahawks Preview w/ Alec Lewis (The Athletic) 1:03:49

1M ago1:03:49

1:03:49

After watching the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss their One Big Thing from the Seahawks’ 30-24 win over the Titans. Chris’ One Big Thing is the big boys up front defense and their role in Seattle having the best short-yardage unit in the NFL. Mike discusses how Klint Kubiak is scheming JSN open even though teams know he’s Seattle’s go-…

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History In The Makin 1:26:53

1M ago1:26:53

1:26:53

The Seahawks got back on track with a 30-24 win over the Tennessee Titans. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down a victory that Mike Macdonald said “wasn’t pretty.” Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on JSN’s record-breaking day and the historic pace he’s on; Rashid Shaheed’s quiet start; Cam Ward having the best day of…

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One Big Thing & Seahawks vs. Titans Preview w/ Ben Arthur (NFL on FOX) 1:11:08

2M ago1:11:08

1:11:08

After watching the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss their One Big Thing from the Seahawks’ 21-19 loss to the Rams. Mike breaks down the ways Seattle’s offense came up short in the red zone while Chris spotlights Seattle’s defense, which was clutch on several occasions and is playing at an elite level. Looking ahead to Week 12, FOX Sports…

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The Darnold Dilemma 1:27:31

2M ago1:27:31

1:27:31

Sam Darnold had four interceptions and the Seahawks fell to Rams, 21-19. Michael-Shawn and Christopher recap Seattle’s loss to its division rival, starting with the play of the QB. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on red zone struggles, Klint Kubiak, Mike Macdonald’s decision making, Darnold’s turnovers, second-half run …

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One Big Thing & Seahawks vs. Rams Preview w/ Nate Atkins (The Athletic) 1:08:23

2M ago1:08:23

1:08:23

Michael-Shawn and Christopher detail their One Big Thing after watching the tape of the Seahawks’ 44-22 win over the Cardinals. Chris shows some love to the “other guys” on defense who stepped up when multiple starters were unavailable. Mike highlights Riq Woolen’s season-best performance and how critical he may be against the Rams in Week 11.Later…

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Elite Company 1:31:44

2M ago1:31:44

1:31:44

Another day, another beatdown. The Seahawks topped the Arizona Cardinals 44-22 and now sit atop the NFC standings. Michael-Shawn and Christopher react to the latest victory and why it suggests Seattle is one of the NFL’s elite teams. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on finally finding a run game, Sam Darnold’s turnovers,…

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Rashid Shaheed Trade Reaction & Cardinals vs. Seahawks preview w/ Doug Haller 1:17:00

2M ago1:17:00

1:17:00

The Seahawks gave up two 2026 draft picks for WR Rashid Shaheed. Michael-Shawn and Christopher react to the news in three parts: 1) Shaheed’s potential to upgrade the offense especially if Cooper Kupp has to miss time 2) the risk in giving up multiple draft picks to acquire a player midseason and 3) Seattle’s long-term outlook and how this impacts …

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Cream of The Crop 1:29:01

2M ago1:29:01

1:29:01

A prime-time butt-kicking. That’s what the Seahawks gave the Commanders on Sunday night, showcasing to the world that they are real contenders in the NFC. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down Seattle’s 38-14 win and answer listener questions and voicemails on Sam Darnold’s near-perfect game, JSN’s historic pace, whether the Seahawks can stay ho…

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Commanders Preview w/ Tashan Reed (Reporter At Washington Post) 39:55

2M ago39:55

39:55

Commanders reporter Tashan Reed of the Washington Post joins the show to preview Seahawks-Commanders in Week 9. Tashan discusses whether this is a do-or-die game for 3-5 Washington; the WR room without Terry McLaurin; whether Washington has a fighting chance if Marcus Mariota has to start; Jayden Daniels’ sophomore season; Washington’s banged-up, a…

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The Eugenics Administration 33:35

2M ago33:35

33:35

The Eugenics Administration by Makin' A DifferenceBy Makin' A Difference

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One Big Thing 34:09

2M ago34:09

34:09

Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss their One Big Thing from the Seahawks’ 27-19 win over the Houston Texans. Following a second primetime win, Chris explains why the national media is starting to put respect on the Seahawks’ name. Mike highlights the play of defensive tackle Byron Murphy II and cornerback Josh Jobe – two players who have emerged…

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Unstoppable 1:14:19

3M ago1:14:19

1:14:19

The Seahawks made a statement on Monday night, beating the Texans 27-19 behind a superstar performance from Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Mike Macdonald’s defense. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down the latest display of excellence JSN, the defense’s dominance and what it means for Seattle entering the bye week. Chris and Mike also answer listener q…

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One Big Thing & Texans vs. Seahawks Preview w/ DJ Bien-Aime (Texans Reporter via ESPN) 57:41

3M ago57:41

57:41

After watching the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss their One Big Thing from the Seahawks’ 20-12 win over the Jags. Chris breaks down the performance of JSN, who is delivering like a true WR1 in every way possible. Mike explains why DeMarcus Lawrence, Nick Emmanwori and Cooper Kupp highlighted John Schneider’s excellent work this offseas…

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Live From Jaxonville 1:36:40

3M ago1:36:40

1:36:40

Live from Jaxonville, Michael-Shawn and Christopher recap the Seahawks’ 20-12 win over the Jaguars, starting with the deadliest duo in the league: Sam Darnold and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Chris and Mike also answer voicemails and listener questions on Seattle’s inconsistent run game, Anthony Bradford’s play, how Seattle’s shorthanded secondary slowed do…

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One Big Thing & Seahawks vs. Jags Preview w/ John Shipley 52:17

3M ago52:17

52:17

After reviewing the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher detail their “One Big Thing” from the Seahawks’ 38-35 loss to the Bucs. Mike goes through some of the many coverage issues in the secondary and how they were surprising for a defense that had been so assignment-sound. Chris looks at arguably the biggest problem of the game: tackling. Seattle h…

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Home-Cooked 1:30:14

3M ago1:30:14

1:30:14

The Seahawks lost at home – again. Michael-Shawn and Christopher dissect Seattle’s 38-35 Week 5 loss to Baker Mayfield at the Bucs in a shootout. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on the defense’s disastrous day, trading for an edge rusher, injuries in the secondary, Sam Darnold being The Guy, why Seattle is struggling to…

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One Big Thing & Buccaneers vs. Seahawks Preview w/ Greg Auman (NFL Reporter for Fox Sports) 41:29

3M ago41:29

41:29

After reviewing the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher detail their “One Big Thing” from the Seahawks’ Week 4 win over the Arizona Cardinals. Chris breaks down Seattle’s run game – and why it’s not working the way it’s supposed to. Mike shouts out Mike Macdonald and his ability to give QBs problems without blitzing.Later in the show, Greg Auman of…

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Captain Clutch 1:29:33

3M ago1:29:33

1:29:33

Clutch. That’s what Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks were in their 23-20 win over Arizona. Michael-Shawn and Christopher recap Darnold’s night on national TV, as well as JSN’s crunch-time catches. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on what’s wrong with the run game; Mike Macdonald’s conservative calls; Spoon and Riq’s …

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One Big Thing 34:16

3M ago34:16

34:16

After reviewing the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher detail their “One Big Thing” from the Seahawks’ 44-13 win over the New Orleans Saints. Chris shows love to the Seahawks’ pass protection, which allowed Sam Darnold time to stand in the pocket and make plays. Mike highlights the interior D-line trio of Leonard Williams, Byron Murphy II and Jarr…

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House Call 1:26:10

4M ago1:26:10

1:26:10

The Seahawks beat up on the Saints, 44-13, and Michael-Shawn and Christopher open the show discussing why it was important that this game was a beatdown – and that it happened at Lumen Field. Chris and Mike also answer voicemails and listener questions on Seattle’s place in the NFC West, the run game, Jalen Milroe’s usage, the culture and physicali…

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One Big Thing & Saints vs. Seahawks Preview w/ Matthew Paras 49:45

4M ago49:45

49:45

After watching the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher detail their “One Big Thing” from the Seahawks’ 31-17 win the Pittsburgh Steelers. Chris explains how the coverage and pass rush worked together to deliver three sacks on Aaron Rodgers. Mike highlights Jaxon Smith-Njigba performing like a WR1, and how that helped the whole offense.Then Saints b…

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Proof of Concept 1:29:39

4M ago1:29:39

1:29:39

The Seahawks earned their first win of the year with a 31-17 victory on the road versus the Steelers. Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss why this was such a big win for Mike Macdonald in Year 2. Chris and Mike also respond to voicemails and listener questions on the Sam Darnold’s performance, Ken Walker III going over 100 yards, Cooper Kupp and …

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One Big Thing & Seahawks vs. Steelers Preview w/ Mike DeFabo 58:55

4M ago58:55

58:55

After watching the tape, Michael-Shawn and Christopher detail their “One Big Thing” from the Seahawks’ 17-13 loss to the 49ers. Chris breaks down several plays where Seattle needed more from Sam Darnold. Mike critiques Seattle’s offense for not running the ball well or using play-action. Also, Steelers beat writer Mike DeFabo previews Seattle’s tri…

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False Start 1:32:27

4M ago1:32:27

1:32:27

The Seahawks fell short in Week 1 against the 49ers, 17-13. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down what went wrong, starting with the offense’s substandard run game, lack of firepower in the passing game and Riq Woolen’s late-game miscues. Chris and Mike also react to listener voicemails and questions about the non-JSN wideouts, why Seattle’s off…

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Rivalry Week w/ Grant Cohn 1:49:24

4M ago1:49:24

1:49:24

Ahead of the Seahawks’ season opener, Michael-Shawn and Christopher respond to voicemail and listener questions on Ken Walker and the running game; extensions for the ‘22 draft class; Week 1 strengths/weaknesses; in-season trade potential; roster sleepers; what it’ll take for Seattle to garner national attention and more.Also, Grant Cohn of On SI p…

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Judgement Day 1:24:36

5M ago1:24:36

1:24:36

Following the Seahawks’ preseason finale, Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down Jalen Milroe’s game against the Packers and what it says about his status on the QB depth chart. Chris and Mike also answer listener voicemails and questions about Seattle’s defensive scheme, players on the roster bubble, the 2025 regular season outlook, takeaways fr…

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The Start of Something New 1:05:38

5M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

The Seattle Seahawks debuted their new offense with Sam Darnold and the rest of the starters in a 33-16 preseason win over the Chiefs. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down Seattle’s performance with an emphasis on the new-look run game; the offensive line seemingly being transformed under the new coaching staff; Jake Bobo’s big night; the lack …

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Physical Philosophy 1:04:11

5M ago1:04:11

1:04:11

Seattle unveiled Klint Kubiak’s new offense it its 23-23 tie against the Raiders to open the preseason. Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down the game, highlighting Pete Carroll’s return to Lumen Field; Kubiak’s offensive identity shining through thanks in part to Robbie Ouzts; Jalen Milroe’s first taste of action; Mike Macdonald’s defense causi…

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Scheme Driven 1:37:44

5M ago1:37:44

1:37:44

With over a week of training camp practices in the books, Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss early impressions from Seahawks practice. Addressing listener questions via voicemail and social media, Chris and Mike dive into the ways Klint Kubiak’s scheme will help the offensive line; the early outlook for the 2025 draft class; Tory Horton’s athlet…

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Take It Up a Notch 1:08:53

6M ago1:08:53

1:08:53

As training camp begins, Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss the Seahawks' decision to release Noah Fant and what it means for the tight end room; Why all eyes will be on Sam Darnold, JSN, Riq Woolen and Boye Mafe this season; Whether JSN is a WR1 and a top-10 receiver; Who may be the Seahawks' next stars; Potential paydays and more.Interested in…

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Can The Seahawks Become Contenders? 1:42:08

7M ago1:42:08

1:42:08

Michael-Shawn and Christopher wrap up the offseason answering Seahawks questions from listeners submitted via voicemail and IG/Twitter on several topics including: Mike Macdonald having the No. 1 defense in 2025, contract extensions for key young pieces, the state of the O-line, players they’re excited to watch, reasons to be optimistic about the u…

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Sam Darnold Offseason 1:23:38

7M ago1:23:38

1:23:38

Michael-Shawn and Christopher recap Seahawks OTAs with a rundown of Sam Darnold’s encouraging week of practice, why there’s good reason to be optimistic about the secondary, Cooper Kupp and Jaxon Smith-Smith working together and more. Chris and Mike also answer listener questions and voicemails on the offensive line, top-10 Seahawks of all-time, th…

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Offseason Optimism 1:26:42

8M ago1:26:42

1:26:42

Following the release of the 2025 schedule, Michael-Shawn and Christopher discuss the difficulty of Seattle’s regular season slate and what that’ll mean for the year. Chris and Mike also answer voicemails and listener questions on reasons to be optimistic about Sam Darnold, rookies to be excited about, Jalen Milroe’s chances of a 2012 repeat, wheth…

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Drafting Difference Makers w/ Danny Kelly (The Ringer) 1:03:49

8M ago1:03:49

1:03:49

Danny Kelly of The Ringer joins the show and explains why he’s high on the Seahawks’ 2025 draft class. Danny breaks down Grey Zabel’s potential impact on Seattle’s O-line (4:38), Nick Emmanwori’s upside in the secondary (13:32), Elijah Arroyo’s future as a high-level pass catcher (23:40), all the reasons to gamble on Jalen Milroe’s development and …

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Draft Diamonds 1:56:46

8M ago1:56:46

1:56:46

Michael-Shawn and Christopher break down the Seahawks’ 2025 Draft class, starting with overall takeaways on the offense-heavy group. Chris and Mike also dive into the Grey Zabel selection (17:32), where to play Nick Emmanwori (27:57), Elijah Arroyo’s impact on the TE room (41:12) and all things Jalen Milroe (56:36). They also answer listener questi…

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Sinners (And Safe Spaces) 53:19

9M ago53:19

53:19

Ken Makin talks about Sinners, safe spaces (at HBCUs) and Shay Sharpe.By Makin' A Difference

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On the Front Lines w/ Nick Baumgardner (The Athletic) 58:07

9M ago58:07

58:07

Senior writer Nick Baumgardner of The Athletic makes his annual visit to preview the trenches in the upcoming draft. Nick discusses the strength of the 2025 class up front (3:00), the best-available OL/DL for Seattle with the 18th pick (6:04), Grey Zabel’s potential as a center (11:07), Jared Wilson and the Georgia O-line (15:38), James Pearce Jr. …

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From Prospects to Playmakers 1:13:35

9M ago1:13:35

1:13:35

Michael-Shawn and Christopher address listener questions and voicemails about the Seahawks’ 2025 NFL Draft outlook. Chris and Mike discuss whether the Seahawks need to acquire a Taysom Hill-style gadget player, ideal targets for the 18th overall pick, Tetairoa McMillan and the WR class, Jalen Milroe and other QB options, potentially trading back an…

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Seahawks Man 2 Man: Best Players Available w/ (Ky Samuels of SI) 1:12:32

9M ago1:12:32

1:12:32

On SI college football and NFL analyst Kyron Samuels discusses the 2025 NFL Draft prospects who “are what they look like” at their positions – aka the Best Players Available in this class. Ky’s list features: Alabama OG Tyler Booker (5:13), Missouri OT Armand Membou (9:09), Penn State TE Tyler Warren (16:39), Michigan TE Colston Loveland (22:22), B…