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NFL Podcast Network Spotlights

iHeart Podcast Network

NFL Podcast Network Spotlights brings you the best episodes from across the official Podcast Network of the NFL and iHeart Media.

Location:

United States

Description:

NFL Podcast Network Spotlights brings you the best episodes from across the official Podcast Network of the NFL and iHeart Media.

Language:

English


Episodes
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DeSean Jackson’s Second Act No One Expected: College Football Head Coach + Being one of the Greatest Deep Threats in NFL History

3/4/2026
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper sit down with former Pro Bowl receiver DeSean Jackson to talk about life after football and his transition from elite playmaker to head coach at Delaware St. University. DeSean opens up about his unorthodox coaching style, the moment he realized coaching was his next calling, and the challenges of building confidence in his first year leading a program. He also discusses battling for accolades amongst receivers like Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, A.J. Green and others. Plus, we hear where DeSean compares to Jerry Rice in NFL history. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:22:51

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DeMarcus Ware on the quarterback he couldn’t sack, recovering from a neck injury, and giving back to the Boys and Girls Club

2/18/2026
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Pro Bowl edge rusher DeMarcus Ware sits down with Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper. The guys reminisce about playing each other in Super Bowl L and DeMarcus breaks down the game plan that allowed the Broncos to beat the Panthers. Then DeMarcus explains why he chose number 94, how he lived up to Charles Haley legacy with the Cowboys, and the quarterback that he struggled to sack. He also reveals why he decided to retire and how he’s giving back to the Boys and Girls Club. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:48:13

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Matt Ryan & Jeb Terry Talk Rivalries, Leadership, and the Future of The Game

2/7/2026
On the latest episode of the NFL Players: Second Acts Podcast, former NFL MVP Matt Ryan sits down with hosts Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to talk football, legacy, and life after the game. Matt dives into the Saints vs. Falcons rivalry, his deep pride in Atlanta, and what it means to embrace a second act beyond the field. He also shares insight on leadership, including his thoughts on Bill Cowher and the future of the Falcons front office. Then, Jeb Terry joins the conversation to discuss his return to San Francisco and the rapid rise of Cosm, a groundbreaking venue reshaping how fans experience sports and entertainment. From the Protector of the Year Award to unforgettable fan reactions inside Cosm, we explore how immersive technology, movies, and live sports are coming together in a whole new way. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:28:56

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O.J. McDuffie talks Making History with Dan Marino, How Joe Paterno & Penn. St. Shaped Him, How Friendships Helped Ease His NFL Transition

1/21/2026
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, former Miami Dolphins receiver OJ McDuffie joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper for a wide-ranging conversation about football, baseball, legendary coaches, and life after the game. OJ shares being named after OJ Simpson, those they don’t have the same exact names, his original passion for baseball at Penn State, and how Joe Paterno’s unique approach allowed him to play both sports. He reflects on his place in the Penn State baseball record books, and his “Welcome to the NFL” moment. The conversation dives deep into OJ’s NFL career with the Dolphins, including his experience playing for Don Shula, the stark transition to Jimmy Johnson, and what made Dan Marino one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. OJ also shares the incredible story of catching Marino’s 399th, 400th, and 401st career touchdown passes in the same game. OJ gets candid about the foot injury that ended his career, the difficult transition away from football, and how leaning on friends helped him find his footing. Today, he’s found a second act in media through The Fish Tank podcast, continuing to stay connected to the game and the city of Miami. It’s an honest, funny, and insightful look at a career shaped by legends—and what comes next when the game ends. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:48:43

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Adewale Ogunleye talks being “saved” by Peanut, Super Bowl XLI, The Deal that Changed His Life, His Work with Athletes on Building Wealth

1/14/2026
In the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper are joined by former Pro Bowl defensive end Adewale Ogunleye. Adewale and Peanut discuss playing together on the Chicago Bears and reminisce on playing in Super Bowl XLI against the Indianapolis Colts. Adewale also explains how he learned to manage his money after getting a big contract and why he moved into wealth management at UBS after he retired. Peanut also shares the story of how he “saved” Adewale’s life. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:53:01

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Kayvon Webster on Broncos No Fly Zone Dominance, How His Food Trucks Served Frontline Workers During the Pandemic

1/7/2026
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Super Bowl champion Kayvon Webster joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to share his journey from chasing an NFL dream to building a life of purpose beyond football. Kayvon reflects on growing up with a clear goal of playing in the NFL, his path to South Florida, and his “welcome to the league” moments — including getting drafted by his childhood favorite team, the Denver Broncos, and meeting his idol Champ Bailey. He discusses earning his place in Denver’s legendary No Fly Zone defense, which he says thrived on veteran leadership. The conversation turns to winning a Super Bowl, the celebration that followed, and the reality of life after football. Kayvon opens up about not giving himself time to dwell on leaving the game, instead pouring his energy into entrepreneurship — launching a food truck while still trying out for teams. His business quickly outgrew expectations, including serving frontline workers during the pandemic. Kayvon also shares how a torn Achilles sparked a new creative chapter, leading to a children’s book inspired by Black inventors and motivational videos created for his kids. Through business, storytelling, and service, Webster explains how he’s living his purpose by helping others believe in their dreams — the ultimate second act. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:39:06

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Bryant McKinnie’s Unlikely Journey From Heisman Finalist and Superbowl Champion to Grammy Nominee

12/31/2025
On the lates NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Super Bowl champion Bryant McKinnie joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper. McKinnie shares how he didn’t even start playing football until high school, his unlikely journey through junior college to the University of Miami, and why he believes the 2001 Hurricanes are the greatest college team of all time. He reflects on being a top 10 Heisman finalist, battling elite pass rushers like Dwight Freeney, and the elation of winning Super Bowl XLVII with the Ravens. Beyond football, Bryant opens up about his thriving second act — from serving as COO of a language translation company, to his three Grammy nominations, producing, and performing on America’s Got Talent. He also discusses his work in mental health advocacy, helping former players transition, and creating spaces for honest conversations through his Cocktails & Conversations events. From tennis lessons with Venus Williams to bringing the “B-Mac experience” wherever he goes, this episode is full of laughs, insight, and inspiration from one of the NFL’s most unique personalities. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:52:32

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D.J. Williams talks playing at “The U,” living the "Dyme Lyfe," podcasting with Maurice Clarett

12/24/2025
In the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper are joined by former linebacker D.J. Williams. First, D.J. explains what it was like playing at De La Salle High School, which famously went undefeated for 151 consecutive games, and how that experience prepared him for college and the pros. Then D.J. shares what it was like to play football at the University of Miami in the early 2000s. Later, D.J. reveals his second act—founding an apparel company called Dyme Lyfe that partners with universities and athletes. He also discusses his podcast venture with Maurice Clarett. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:01:15:46

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Week 15 Recap: Patrick Mahomes Tears ACL + Philip Rivers Makes His Return

12/17/2025
Marcas Grant, Michael F. Florio, and LaQuan Jones bring you the latest fantasy headlines after Sunday’s week fifteen games. They start the show by talking about the Bills comeback against the Patriots, then they discuss Patrick Mahomes' ACL tear and how they feel about the Chiefs pass catchers for the rest of the season (4:52). They also consider the impacts of Davante Adams’ hamstring injury (10:25) and Christian Watson’s chest injury (12:45). Next, they discuss Philip Rivers returning to the field after five years off and what his performance means for the Colts pass catchers going forward (20:20). After the break they review the heroes and villains from week one of the fantasy playoffs (25:34) and answer the big questions from week fifteen (37:35). They wrap the show by sharing the players in the drop zone (43:16) and who to pick up on the waiver wire (48:02). The NFL Fantasy Football Podcast is a part of the NFL Podcasts Network. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:01:00:34

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Russell Okung talks “Betrayal” in Seahawks Super Bowl XLIX to Patriots, His Physical Transformation, Bitcoin Success

12/17/2025
Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper are joined by Super Bowl winning offensive tackle Russell Okung. Russell gets candid about what still bothers him about his Seahawks loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl XLIX, betting on himself in NFL Free Agency, and his steadfast belief that Bitcoin is the key to a brighter future for all. Plus, he explains the inspiration and aftereffects of his stunning post career physical transformation. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:01:00:08

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Jonathan Vilma finds redemption in his NFL second act, relives his role in the famous "Beastquake" run, talks the almost Saints dynasty

12/10/2025
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Super Bowl champion Jonathan Vilma joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper for an honest, insightful, and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, controversy, redemption, and what comes after an NFL career. Vilma opens the episode reacting to a special surprise — hearing Jimmy Graham and D.J. Williams place him on their personal Mount Rushmore. He shares why being a team captain meant everything to him, and Roman recalls the famous 2009 defensive meeting where Vilma called out the entire unit and set the standard for a championship run. Vilma also dives deep into Bountygate, discussing how he handled being the public face of the scandal, why he never felt pressured to defend himself publicly, and how the ordeal unexpectedly opened doors for him in broadcasting with ESPN and FOX. He also shares stories from the 2009 Super Bowl season, the heartbreaking 2011 playoff loss, and his final attempts to return to the NFL before realizing his playing days were over—while watching training camp on TV at a Dave & Buster’s. From his leadership style, to playing at Miami, to his ventures in finance, real estate, and the restaurant world, Vilma breaks down the full arc of his second act. The guys close out with Vilma’s personal Mount Rushmore and a few hilarious stories from his playing days, including Roman’s memory of getting run over and discovering Vilma speaks German. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:01:12:00

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Week 14 Recap: Daniel Jones and Jayden Daniels Injured + Michael Wilson’s Hot Streak Continues

12/9/2025
Marcas Grant, Michael F. Florio, and LaQuan Jones bring you the latest fantasy headlines after Sunday’s week fourteen games. First, they discuss Daniel Jones’ Achilles injury and what this means for the Colts pass catchers going forward (1:17). Then they talk about Jayden Daniels elbow injury and whether they would trust him if he plays next week (9:18). After the break, the guys answer the biggest questions from week fourteen, including whether Lamar Jackson is back to peak form, if Justin Jefferson is droppable, whether owners be concerned about Kyren Williams’ usage, and if would they start Michael Wilson next week against Houston’s dominant defense (18:08). Next, they share their takeaways from this year's fantasy regular season (33:14) and discuss how much they trust players like C.J. Stroud, Emeka Egbuka, and Brian Thomas Jr. in the fantasy playoffs (39:28). They close the show by sharing their drop zone candidates (53:21) and waiver wire pickups of the week (1:02:25). The NFL Fantasy Football Podcast is a part of the NFL Podcasts Network. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:01:06:32

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Giovanni Bernard: Overcoming the Loss of His Son, Training for an Ironman, Investing in Real Estate

11/26/2025
On this episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper are joined by former Bengals running back Giovani Bernard to find out what he’s been up to since he retired three years ago. Giovani opens up about the loss of his newborn son and the joy he’s found in becoming a parent of twin girls. He also explains how he dealt with the Bengals’ lack of playoff success during career and why he decided to retire after ten years. Then Giovani shares the multiple passions he’s found in second act, including photography, endurance sports, and investing in real estate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:36:07

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Week 12 Recap + Players to Stash for the Fantasy Playoffs

11/25/2025
Marcas Grant, Michael F. Florio, and LaQuan Jones bring you the latest NFL news after Sunday's week twelve action. They discuss the Raiders’ decision to fire offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and whether it will have an impact on Ashton Jeanty, Brock Bowers, and Tre Tucker (6:36). Then they consider how Baker Mayfield’s shoulder injury will affect the Buccaneers wide receivers (12:01), debate whether any Bengals wide receivers can step up with Tee Higgins out for week thirteen (14:24), and discuss whether Devin Neal can fill in for Alvin Kamara who left Sunday's game with a knee injury (16:25). After the break, the guys share their favorite players to stash for the fantasy playoffs (27:53). They close the show by sharing their drop zone candidates (47:14) and their waiver wire pickups of the week (56:24). The NFL Fantasy Football Podcast is a part of the NFL Podcasts Network. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:01:00:55

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Week 11 Recap: Josh Jacobs, Jaylen Warren, and Drake London Injured

11/18/2025
Marcas Grant, Michael F. Florio, and LaQuan Jones bring you the latest news, including injuries to Josh Jacobs, Drake London, Michael Penix, Aaron Rodgers, and Jaylen Warren (2:08). Then they review week eleven's unexpected fantasy performances and discuss whether they’re likely to continue (15:05). After that they check in on the Broncos, Jaguars, and Commanders' backfield committees to find out which running backs are emerging as startable fantasy options (29:59). Grant, Florio, and Jones close the show by sharing their candidates for the drop zone (41:17) and their waiver wire pickups of the week (45:55). The NFL Fantasy Football Podcast is a part of the NFL Podcasts Network. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:50:50

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Alejandro Villanueva: Growing up in Europe, Joining the Army Rangers, and Becoming a Farmer

11/12/2025
Alejandro Villanueva sits down Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to share his unique journey: growing up as an army brat moving around the U.S. and Europe; to an Army Ranger deployed in Afghanistan; then becoming a Pro Bowl offensive lineman with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Alejandro explains why he decided to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, why he decided to retire as an Army Ranger, and how he was able to tryout and make it to an NFL roster. He also discusses his third act as a farmer growing fruit and how that connects to his Spanish roots. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:01:14:52

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Week 10 Recap: Brian Daboll Fired and Joe Burrow Returns to Practice

11/11/2025
Marcas Grant, Michael F. Florio, and LaQuan Jones bring you the latest news to help your fantasy team make the playoffs. They discuss the Giants’ head coach Brian Daboll being fired (4:05) and Jaxson Dart leaving the game with a concussion (6:38). Then they talk about Joe Burrow returning to practice and whether his return could turn the Bengals’ disappointing season around (11:33). They wrap up the news segment with a conversation about Garrett Wilson’s knee injury and whether there any other Jets’ pass-catchers they would want to start (15:03). After the break, the guys review some unexpected performances from Davis Mills, Jameson Williams, and Jalen Nailor and whether those trends will continue (23:39). Then they share their rookie report and discuss TreVeyon Henderson and Tyler Shough (34:48). Grant, Florio, and Jones close the show by sharing their candidates for the drop zone (45:07) and their waiver wire pickups of the week (55:343). The NFL Fantasy Football Podcast is a part of the NFL Podcasts Network. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:58:26

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Daboll out as Giants Coach and Burrow Practicing with Ian Rapoport

11/10/2025
Gregg Rosenthal is joined by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport to react to the New York Giants firing Head Coach Brian Daboll. The guys discuss want went into the decision (0:10), what could be next for General Manager Joe Schoen (06:15) and what to expect from interim Head Coach Mike Kafka (14:00). Plus, Joe Burrow is back on the practice field (16:10)! Note: time codes approximate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:19:46

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Jim Covert: Untold Stories of Bears Super Bowl Shuffle, Walter Payton's best pranks, Journey to Healthcare CEO

11/5/2025
On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Hall of Famer Jim Covert joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to reflect on his incredible journey from anchoring the ’85 Chicago Bears offensive line to leading in the healthcare industry after football. Jim shares untold stories from his playing days — including his famous fight with Steve McMichael, blocking for Walter Payton, and what it was like facing that dominant Bears defense every day in practice. He also opens up about the injury that ended his career, his transition from the NFL to the boardroom, and how his daughter’s fight with spina bifida changed his perspective on leadership, resilience, and purpose. It’s an inspiring conversation about toughness, legacy, and the power of reinvention — on and off the field. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:54:21

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Zamir Cobb: Gaining Steelers Respect, How The Trust Works for NFL Legends

10/29/2025
On this episode of NFL Players: Second Acts, Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper sit down with Zamir Cobb — former NFL wide receiver turned President of The Trust (powered by the NFLPA) — to talk about his powerful journey from the gridiron to guiding players through life beyond the game. Zamir shares stories from his time with the Steelers, including training alongside a young Ben Roethlisberger and learning under Coach Bill Cowher, as well as the mental battles that came with an early injury during his rookie season. He opens up about how those challenges fueled his passion for helping others and ultimately led him to a career of purpose — leading programs that have helped more than a thousand NFL legends improve their overall quality of life. From his early days in D.C. to testifying in over 150 court cases as a juvenile case worker, Zamir’s story is a masterclass in resilience, service, and redefining success after football. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:42:57