3 and Out with John Middlekauff

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into the philosophy of taking big swings in the NFL Draft—when it pays off, when it backfires, and which teams weren’t afraid to bet on upside this year. John also reacts to Kyle Shanahan breaking down the 49ers’ draft class, giving insight into how San Francisco approached their picks and what it means for their roster moving forward. Plus, Fugazi Friday returns as John talks about the biggest problem in ALL hotel rooms. To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, featuring answers to your questions and covering a wide range of NFL topics. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reveals how the Los Angeles Rams had their sights set on Ty Simpson well before the draft, breaking down the pre-draft process and why Sean McVay’s group was locked in on their guy. What does it say about Simpson’s future in L.A.? John also dives into the ongoing Mike Vrabel storyline that just won’t go away, unpacking the latest developments and what it could mean for his future in the league. Plus, the Cleveland Browns appear poised to roll with Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback—John discusses the decision, the risks involved, and what it means for the team heading into the season. To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and hitting on a wide range of NFL topics. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Middlekauff tees off by reacting to the news reports that LIV Golf may be shut down by the end of the year and what is next for the startup league. John then recaps the Zurich Classic, in which Matt Fitzpatrick and his brother, Alex Fitzpatrick, won in riveting fashion plus secured Alex a spot on the PGA Tour. John then dives into his best bets for the Cadillac Championship in Miami, Florida. John wraps up with the GoLow Mailbag where he answers all of your golf questions. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into the Steelers getting scooped by the Cowboys in the Lemon trade and what it says about how quickly deals come together in the NFL. Did Pittsburgh miss an opportunity, or did Dallas simply outmaneuver them at the right time? John also takes a broader look at this year’s draft classes—who stood out, which teams helped themselves the most, and where some organizations may have come up short. Plus, is the pressure starting to mount on Giants GM Joe Schoen? John discusses where things stand in New York and whether his seat is getting hot. He also reacts to the news of Brendan Sorsby entering rehab for gambling, addressing the seriousness of the situation and what it could mean for his future. To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL topics. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down the Pittsburgh Steelers’ draft and what their selections say about the team’s direction moving forward. Did they do enough to stay competitive in a loaded AFC, or are there still major questions to answer? John also revisits the Rams’ decision to take Ty Simpson, diving into how he fits in Los Angeles and what the pick means for the future of the franchise. Plus, a full look at the San Francisco 49ers’ draft—how they approached their roster needs and whether they did enough to keep their Super Bowl window wide open. Later, the SEC once again leads the way with the most players selected in the NFL Draft. John discusses what continues to separate the conference and why it remains the premier pipeline to the league. From certain team breakdowns to big-picture draft trends, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colin is joined by John Middlekauff, host of “3 and Out” to break down the NFL Draft. Colin begins by arguing that GM Brett Veach of the Chiefs drafts predictably & he can’t figure out 49ers GM John Lynch, and John explains that Lynch doesn’t run the 49ers draft… head coach Kyle Shanahan does (3:00). They discuss the backlash to the Bears taking speedster Zayvian Johnson and Colin explains that if any coach picked him, it may not be a great pick…but with Ben Johnson as coach it can work (9:00). They move to the Rams & Colin argues that while their draft won’t grade well… outside of Ty Simpson, the Rams are drafting for the near term while they still have Matt Stafford and John believes Simpson wasn’t talented enough to justify the 13th pick (15:00). Colin believes the Raiders crushed the draft and Fernando Mendoza could change the trajectory of the franchise (25:00), and they discuss the impact of NIL creating less seasoned, older prospects with multiple years of high-end college football experience in the later rounds (28:30). They break down the Chiefs draft and why it made total sense for them to draft 3 defensive players with their three Top 40 picks (31:30), and Colin lauds the Cowboys for focusing on improving their defense as well by getting the steal of the draft in Caleb Downs (37:00). They debate whether Carson Beck will see the field for the Cardinals in his first season (45:00), and they each predict four teams that didn’t make the playoffs last season that will make the playoffs in 2026 (48:00). Finally, they react to the Steelers choosing Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (54:00). (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements.) Follow Colin and The Volume on Twitter for the latest content and updates! #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John reacts to Day 2 of the NFL Draft. Have the Jets won the first two days of the draft? Are the Eagles making moves that will make them a much better team? All that and more! Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down a wild NFL Draft slate starting with the Los Angeles Rams selecting Ty Simpson at No. 13. Is he the long-term answer under center, and what does the pick say about the Rams’ direction? John also dives into the Tennessee Titans’ connection to Carnell Tate and how he could fit into their offense, before taking a closer look at the New York Giants’ overall draft approach and what they’re trying to build. Plus, the Kansas City Chiefs make another aggressive move, trading for an LSU corner—how it strengthens an already loaded roster and what it means for the AFC. And one of the more surprising storylines: Reuben Bain sliding all the way to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Did Tampa just land one of the steals of the draft? From bold QB decisions to late-round value and team-building strategies, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colin is joined by John Middlekauff, host of “3 and Out” to break down the NFL Draft. They start with the Rams drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson at pick #13 and why it was shocking for them to pick him so high after a limited sample size in college, but Colin argues if anyone can turn Simpson into a great quarterback…it’s Sean McVay (3:00). Colin heaps praise on the Cowboys for drafting Caleb Downs and highlights the massive upgrades Dallas has made to their defense rather than paying Micah Parsons (10:30). They agree that the Bucs got great value in taking Reuben Bain at #15 after experts projected him as a top 10 pick (13:45). They discuss the Chiefs moving up to #6 to take cornerback Mansoor Delane and both agree they had no issues with the trade up to get a much cheaper replacement for Trent McDuffie (15:00). Colin argues that both New York teams did well with their combined 4 first round picks and doesn’t see any busts in the group (23:00). They react to the Titans taking Ohio State WR Carnell Tate at #4, and John believes Tate was a massive reach and that Tate doesn’t have the elite upside that would justify such a high pick (26:00). They both believe that Kadyn Proctor is the most likely Top 15 pick to bust based on reports about his lack of work ethic (29:15). Colin predicts accurately that the Eagles would take USC wide receiver Makai Lemon after trading up, and says that it's the perfect move to patch the hole that will be left after the team trades AJ Brown (33:00). They discuss the overall quality of this first round draft class, note that it’s been very offensive line heavy and explain why you can’t go wrong drafting o-line in the first round (39:00). Finally, they discuss why the Big Ten is leaving the SEC in the dust when it comes to producing first round NFL talent and react live to the late first round picks for the Chargers, Cowboys & more (50:00+). (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements.) Follow Colin and The Volume on Twitter for the latest content and updates! #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Pre-Draft show, John gives his 10 bold predictions heading into the NFL Draft. How many running backs will be taken in the first round? Will Aaron Rodgers announce his return before or during the draft? How early will Love get drafted? All that and more! Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to Mike Vrabel’s latest press conference and breaks down the key takeaways from one of the league’s most respected voices. What stood out, and is everyone ready to move on from the situation? Later, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, answering your questions and hitting on a wide range of topics from around the league. John dives into the New York Giants and their draft outlook, examining potential strategies, team needs, and how they could approach one of the most important drafts in recent years. From there, he takes a step back and talks about losing in sports—why it matters, how players handle it, and what separates players that bounce back from those that stay stuck. Plus, a big-picture look at NFL divisions and how the league stacks up across the board, before getting into the growing conversation around NFL expansion and what it could mean for the future of the sport. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to Trent Williams signing a contract extension with the San Francisco 49ers and what it means for one of the NFL’s premier rosters moving forward. How long can the Niners keep this core together, and what does this deal say about their window to win? With the NFL Draft around the corner, John takes a deep dive into the job of a general manager during this critical stretch—how they balance short-term needs with long-term vision, manage risk, and navigate the pressure of draft night decisions. Plus, a look at one of the league’s ongoing mysteries: why don’t NFL teams trade future draft picks more often? John breaks down the logic, the risk, and why front offices tend to be more conservative than fans might expect. From front office strategy to big contracts and draft philosophy, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down a major move in the trenches as the Cincinnati Bengals trade for star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. What does the deal mean for Cincinnati’s defense, and how does it shift the balance of power in the AFC? John also checks in on the New York Giants, taking a closer look at where the franchise stands and what’s next as they continue to reshape their roster. Plus, a deep dive into electric playmaker Zachariah Branch and how his arrest could lead to teams passing on him. The conversation then turns to Houston, where Will Anderson cashes in with a massive extension—what it says about the Texans’ long-term vision and how it impacts C.J. Stroud and the rest of the roster moving forward. To wrap things up, John reacts to LeBron James and Bronny picking up a playoff win together, adding another unique chapter to their story. From blockbuster trades to rising stars and big-picture roster moves, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff looks back to the Cleveland Browns pulling off what he believes was a draft-night win in their trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars involving Travis Hunter. How did Cleveland come out on top, and what does it mean for both franchises moving forward? John also breaks down the Broncos’ reasoning behind the Jaylen Waddle trade and whether the move actually makes sense from a roster-building and financial standpoint. Plus, John takes a quick detour outside the NFL to discuss why Steph Curry remains one of the most electric players in sports, and reacts to Azzi Fudd going No. 1 overall and what makes her such a special talent. To wrap things up, it’s everyone’s favorite segment: the Middlekauff Mailbag, where John answers your questions and hits on a wide range of topics across the sports world. From NFL trades and draft fallout to hoops and beyond, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into the ever-evolving world of money in sports, breaking down how finances shape decision-making across not only the NFL, but LIV Golf as well. He also explores the idea of conflict of interest in today’s sports landscape, looking at where lines can get blurred between teams, media, and business, and why it matters more now than ever. Plus, John shares his latest NFL Draft thoughts, team strategies, and what makes selecting players so difficult as the draft approaches. Finally, John answers your questions in the latest mailbag segment. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down the latest NFL storylines, starting with the Giants front office buzzing about Jeremiah Love. After their GM praised him, could New York be eyeing him in the draft, and how would he fit into their long-term plans? John also dives into the latest comments from Eagles GM Howie Roseman—because when Howie speaks, the league listens. What can we take away from his messaging, and how does it shape Philadelphia’s roster outlook heading into the season? Plus, a closer look at the Eagles’ wide receiver situation: if A.J. Brown remains in Philadelphia, who emerges as the go-to option alongside him? Is Dontayvion Wicks ready to take that leap, or is this still clearly A.J. Brown’s offense? Finally, John answers your questions in the latest mailbag segment. From draft buzz to front office insight and roster debates, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, John dives into an NFL Draft breakdown of Reuben Bain and Sonny Styles, analyzing their strengths, projections, and how they could translate to the next level. From pass-rush upside to defensive versatility, they break down where each prospect fits and what teams should be paying attention to. He also discusses whether Mike Vrabel should publicly address the incident with Dianna Russini, examining how coaches handle media narratives and what accountability looks like in today’s NFL. Plus, Dad Diaries returns with the latest stories, giving listeners a lighter, behind-the-scenes look at life off the field. Finally, John answers your questions in the latest mailbag segment. From draft analysis to league storylines and everything in between, it’s all covered in this episode. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Middlekauff reacts to the 2026 Masters Tournament final round. John will react to the biggest swings of the weekend, breaking news around the sport of professional golf, and much more! Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colin is joined by John Middlekauff, host of “3 and Out” and “Go Low”. They start with Rory McIlroy’s historic repeat, winning back to back at the Masters, and why his win last year took the pressure off and allowed him to play his best golf and now has a chance to become a Top 5 all-time golfer (2:30). They compare Rory’s up-and-down nature on the course to more steady golfers like Tiger & Scheffler, and why he makes for great, drama-filled television (7:00). They predict Rory will probably win 4-5 more majors in the next few years and debate where he stacks up against the all-time greats (10:00). Colin explains why he’s not typically a traditionalist but loves the tradition of the Masters, and that Augusta National stands out as special (14:30). They pivot to the Mike Vrabel/Diana Russini controversy, and Colin explains there’s a difference between moral & ethical standards and explains why only standards apply to Vrabel, but both standards apply to Russini as a journalist (24:30). They look ahead to the NFL draft and discuss the biggest storylines surrounding the NFL draft and John argues the Chiefs picking high is a fascinating story & could potentially go in several different directions with their pick (35:15). (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements.) Follow Colin and The Volume on Twitter for the latest content and updates! #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John answers all of your questions from around the NFL. Is Fernando Mendoza overhyped and could we see a QB competition between him and Kirk Cousin in Las Vegas? Should the NFL change the NFL Draft system so that the bad aren't getting rewarded for being bad, and should bars be open the Monday after Easter? John dives into all that and MORE! Follow John on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.