The NFL Players Podcast

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut and Roman are joined by Hall of Fame cornerback Darrell Green. He joined the guys the same day the Washington Commanders announced his #28 jersey would be retired by the organization. Darrell talks about that special honor and rekindling his relationship with organization under its new ownership. Darrell also sheds light on how despite his 5’9” frame he maintained 20 years of excellence in the NFL. He also shares how he’s made it his mission to impact the lives of young people both through his Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation and as the Associate Athletic Director at George Mason University. And he shares the story of the long-standing beef he had with Jerry Rice during their playing days, and how he used the media to finally get Jerry’s attention. All that, and much more, in this wide-ranging interview. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut and Roman are joined by Super Bowl champion cornerback Chris Harris, Jr. During an improbable 12-year NFL career after going undrafted in 2011, Chris not only won a title, but he turned himself into an All-Pro, and was a vaunted member of the Denver Broncos “No Fly Zone” secondary that’s still considered one of the best defensive back groups in NFL history. After not playing in 2023, despite staying in shape in case a team called, Chris talks to the guys about why he is now officially retiring from the NFL. The three guys also take us behind the scenes of the drama that unfolded in Super Bowl 50, and Chris explains why he stands by his post-game comments about Cam Newton that sparked a controversy that’s still talked about today. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, former Green Bay Packers Pro Bowl receiver Donald Driver joins Peanut and Roman. The guys recall some of their fierce battles on the field, including the time Roman body-slammed Donald, which he was penalized for, and another when Peanut tried to, playfully, break Donad’s arm. Donald is a dedicated supporter of HBCUs, and he talks to Peanut and Roman about how he used his performance company “Driven Elite” on a first-of-its-kind HBCU partnership with Delaware St. University. **NOTE: This episode was taped on radio row during the week of Super Bowl 58. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Super Bowl champion TJ Ward joins Peanut and Roman. TJ shares stories of what it was like when his Denver Broncos beat Peanut and Roman’s Panthers in Super Bowl 50, and how special it was to win it in his hometown. TJ’s winning pedigree started in high school, and he talks about playing at De La Salle High School in California during the school’s record 151-game winning streak. TJ talks about how overcoming the odds to have an All-Pro NFL career is what drove him to become a sports agent to give back to young players. And, who had the better secondary: Seattle’s “Legion of Boom” or Denver’s “No Fly Zone?” TJ settles the debate. And he also shares with the guys the work he does through his Ward Boy Project. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL players: Second Acts podcast, former 11-year veteran linebacker Stephen Tulloch joins Peanut and Roman on the show. Stephen was one of the most respected linebackers in the game because of his production and ironman status. He’s carried that mentality into the business world as a successful real estate investor, coffee brand creator, and children’s book author. Stephen talks with the guys about how he took advantage of the NFL’s entrepreneurship program during his playing career, and the lessons that have served him well as a businessman. He also shares how he overcame the odds to excel as an undersized middle linebacker in the NFL, and what it’s really like to tackle a running back like Adrian Peterson. And, of course, Peanut and Roman get Stephen to name the people of influence on his personal Mount Rushmore. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, we have a dynamic four-piece conversation when NFL legends Takeo Spikes and Tutan Reyes join hosts Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper. Takeo and Tutan are also in the podcast game with their “Behind the Mask” podcast, and the guys all share how they’ve found a passion for the space, and how it’s been a vehicle to display the human side of your favorite athletes. Takeo, Tutan and Peanut (sorry Roman) also discuss how the competitive drive that led them to become great NFL players also fueled their desire to earn master’s degrees in education. Takeo shares an example of the brotherhood amongst players which may have saved Tutan’s life. All that, and more, in a conversation you won’t want to miss. Audio timestamps: The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, we have a dynamic four-piece conversation when NFL legends Takeo Spikes and Tutan Reyes join hosts Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper. Takeo and Tutan are also in the podcast game with their “Behind the Mask” podcast, and the guys all share how they’ve found a passion for the space, and how it’s been a vehicle to display the human side of your favorite athletes. Taken, Tutan and Peanut (sorry Roman) also discuss how the competitive drive that led them to become great NFL players also fueled their desire to earn master’s degrees in education. There’s a brotherhood they all speak about, and Takeo shares an example of that which may have saved Tutan’s life. All that, and more, in a conversation you won’t want to miss. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut and Roman have a candid conversation with former All-Pro pass rusher John Abraham. Roman starts out sharing how he first noticed John from his elaborate collection of tattoos, then realized how much of a baller John was once they played. John tells his journey of how, despite only playing one year of high school football, he became an All-SEC pass rusher and went on to play 15 years in the NFL. John pleads his Hall of Fame case to the guys and explains why he doesn’t think he’s been elected despite his 133.5 career sacks. John then opens up about his struggles to find an identity after football, and how his lowest point almost cost him his life. However, he also discusses how confronting childhood traumas led him to find peace within himself, speak positively about his NFL accomplishments, and proudly state that he’s been sober for the past four years. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, former QB Christian Ponder joins Peanut and Roman. Christian shares his football journey playing at Florida St. under legendary coach Bobby Bowden to becoming a first-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2011. He also talks about what it was like having a front-row seat to history in 2012 when Adrian Peterson ran for 2,097 yards. And Christian says when you shake Adrian’s hand you do so at your own risk. Christian also discusses how he got his undergraduate degree from Florida St. in two-and-a-half years and went on to get his MBA. Despite his academic credentials, Christian opens up about his struggles to transition from football after his six-year NFL career. However, he has found success in his new company called “The Post,” and he shares how he’s working to build a networking community of athletes turned business leaders. And how does Christian have a connection to Jackie Robinson, you ask? Take a listen and find out! The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut and Roman are joined by NFL Media analyst and former All-Pro receiver Steve Smith Sr. Peanut kicks off the discussion by recalling a play when Steve took a would-be interception away from him. Steve then shares his approach to critiquing current players as a former player turned sports media analyst. Roman and Steve reminisce about their on-field encounters, including a fight that broke out after a late hit Roman gave Steve during a game in 2009. Steve also shares why he questions the Hall of Fame vetting process, and how he stacks up against other Hall of Fame-caliber receivers. Steve also gets introspective about his transition from the NFL and why he says it was important to grieve the end of his football life. Steve has channeled his energy into combatting homelessness and talks about how he does that through the Steve Smith Family Foundation. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut and Roman welcome their former teammate with the Panthers and 2015 NFL MVP Cam Newton. It’s as wide-ranging an interview with Cam as you’re going to hear. The guys recount their one season playing together in 2015 and, for the first time, talk about what went wrong in their Super Bowl 50 loss to the Broncos. Cam breaks down what happened during his notorious fourth quarter fumble in that game, and how he dealt with that moment emotionally. Later, Cam discusses the evolution of his growing media empire with his “Iconic Saga Productions” company, and why he says going viral is skill he has developed. Cam also shares the pain that he associates with his Heisman Trophy, and who he would have in his “ratchet” Heisman House. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Peanut and Roman welcome special guests Andrew Hawkins and Troy Jones, and Chris “CJ2K” Johnson. The start out talking with Andrew and Troy about their flourishing sports technology and gaming company “Status Pro.” As co-owners they discuss their latest success and how they secured $20 million in funding for their quest to be the go-to place for first-person virtual sports gaming. And Peanut shares his experience playing their football game. The guys also share how the future of “Status Pro” could include other games. Later, the guys sit down with former running back Chris Johnson. He shares stories of the signature game from his 2,000-yard rushing season, and whether he can still run a 4.24 40-yard dash. Chris also gets into his ventures after football, which is highlighted by his coffee business “Just Love.” Time codes: 1:07 - Troy Jones and Andrew Hawkins are introduced 3:19 - Troy and Andrew discuss what’s next for “Status Pro” 9:48 - Troy discusses his film and TV projects 11:22 - Troy and Andrew discuss the future of virtual reality 16:13 - End of interview with Troy Jones and Andrew Hawkins 17:10 - Chris Johnson is introduced 18:04 - Chris explains how running a 4.24 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine changed his draft prospects 19:24 - Peanut and Chris talk about Peanut’s record setting game against the Titans 21:19 - Chris talks about the highlight of his 2,000-yard rushing season 24:05 - Chris shares the list of current players he believes could rush for 2,000 yards 27:12 - Chris explains how he started investing in coffee shops 30:41 - Chris shares the challenges of running a coffee shop 32:12 - Chris shares his welcome to the NFL moment 33:33 - Roman asks Chris how fast he could run a 40-yard dash today 34:59 - Chris talks about the Smash and Dash podcast he co-hosts with LenDale White 36:41 - Chris shares his personal Mount Rushmore 39:44 - End of Chris Johnson interview The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Troy Vincent joins Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper. In this episode, the pair don’t hold back with their hard-hitting questions, tackling the trending controversial questions that NFL fans and players want to know. Troy discusses the NFL's imminent implementation of advanced technology to propel the game forward while preserving its traditional essence, shedding light on the league's strategies for navigating this terrain. The guys then venture into the contentious debate between grass and turf as Troy provides insights into the data surrounding player injuries on different playing surfaces. Are there significant variances between grass and turf? Troy breaks it down. But Peanut and Roman don't stop there! The hosts ask Troy about the controversial narrative currently trending: Did the NFL “rig” games to ensure the Chiefs reached the Super Bowl for Taylor Swift's presence, given her lucrative impact on the league’s revenue? Tune in for Troy’s response! The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts Podcast NFL MVP Shaun Alexander and eight-time Pro Bowler, Brian Urlacher join Peanut and Roman. Shaun opens up about the honor of having an award named after him and reflects on the significance of his legacy in the NFL. He shares his goal of chasing his favorite player, Barry Sanders' career total of 99 rushing touchdowns, a pursuit that culminated in Shaun finishing his career with 100 rushing touchdowns. Shaun takes us back to one of the defining moments of his MVP career. Shaun recalls the memory of putting up 5 touchdowns in the first half against the Vikings and reveals what his motivation was for that extraordinary performance. Then Peanut’s former teammate, Brian Urlacher joins the show. The guys take a trip down memory lane as they reminisce about their playing days in Chicago. Brian shares his favorite memory of Peanut from his rookie year, where Peanut left a lasting impression after going one-on-one versus Randy Moss. Then Brian shares the profound influence Peanut had on him and why he felt compelled to honor Peanut in his Hall of Fame induction speech. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts Podcast, Peanut and Roman are joined by two legendary icons of the game, Deion Sanders and Lawrence Taylor. Deion shares what a successful season will look like for the Colorado Buffaloes and how last year they instilled hope, but this year they’ll live up to expectations. He mentions how he doesn’t inherit a legacy, he builds it, debunking any rumors of him joining the SEC. He also opens up about overcoming a dark period and living a life of gratitude each day. Then, Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor, aka L.T., joins the show. He talks about the evolution of the rules of the game and how he would probably end up owing the NFL money after each season if he were playing today. He then shares with the duo what separated him from any other linebacker, and why he's considered the greatest defensive player in NFL History. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts Podcast, Former All-Pro receivers Terrell Owens and Victor Cruz join Peanut and Roman. T.O. shares his fitness journey with the guys and, even at 50 years old, he mentions the possibility of playing in the newly-formed UFL. He also discusses his business ventures, and whether he can still run a 4.4 40-yard dash. Then, former NY Giants receiver aka “The People’s Champ” Victor Cruz joins the show. He talks about overcoming the odds to have a productive 6-year NFL career and the proudest moment of his playing career. He also shares how he was chosen to be mic’ed up for Super Bowl 46. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell pays a visit to Peanut and Roman on the latest episode of the NFL Players: Second Acts podcast. Roman starts out sharing how he and other players reacted to the commissioner getting the top job. In a stunning revelation, the commissioner tells the guys how in 1984 he almost took a job with the New York Jets coaching staff after interning with the team. He also shares his welcome to the commissioner moment, and how it was a “holy s**t” experience. And Mr. Goodell takes us inside the “grueling” voting process that led to him becoming the league’s top leader. He shares his thoughts on the “Taylor Swift Effect” of NFL fandom this season and gives us insight to his Super Bowl watching habits (hint: he comes with a pen and paper). Hear what the commissioner says when Peanut and Roman ask him about the league’s efforts to support NFL legends. And the commissioner shares who is on his personal Mount Rushmore. 0:00 – start of episode 1:11 – Roger Goodell introduction 2:31– Roman says nobody knew who Goodell was when he became commissioner, commissioner talks about his start in the league, and his way to becoming commissioner 5:26 – Goodell talks about being offered a job by the Jets as a defensive asst. 7:32– Goodell on what his welcome to the NFL moment was as commissioner, and the first time it hit him he was in the job 9:12 – Goodell on the process to get the top job 11:08 – Roman asking him about the first time he met the commissioner in New Orleans after the Saints first game back in the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina 13:11 – Goodell talks about the NFL returning after the September 11th attacks 13:39– Roman asks Goodell about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce 16:42– Goodell talks about getting booed, and leaning into it 17:52 – Goodell on who he’s picking for the Super Bowl, and what he roots for during the game 19:07 - Goodell talks about John Madden 21:51 – Peanut asks Goodell about his knee injury, and his transition to his second act 25:48 - break 2 27:04– Roman asks Goodell about how the league is supporting former players 33:21 – Goodell gives his personal Mount Rushmore 35:47 – Goodell is asked about his personal Mount Rushmore of NFL players *NOTE: Time codes are approximate The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peanut and Roman are back with a new episode of the NFL Players: Second Acts podcast with Super Bowl champion turned actor Matt Willig. Coming into the NFL as an undrafted free agent, Matt talks about how he willed himself to a 14-year NFL career. He’s also been on both sides of Super Bowl finishes, including almost blocking the game-winning kick in Super Bowl XXXVI. Matt shares how he caught the acting but doing a Campbell’s soup commercial, and the life-changing advice he got from Dewayne “The Rock” Johnson. A large man in his own right, Matt discusses how he had to transform his body to play wrestling legend Andre the Giant for the show “Young Rock.” And he talks about what it was like to work with Bruce Willis and Jennifer Aniston. Matt also shares who is on his personal Mount Rushmore. 0:00 – start of episode 0:54 - Matt Willig is introduced 2:52 - Matt talks about the challenge of switching from defensive to offensive line 3:28 - Matt discusses playing for multiple NFL teams and in multiple Super Bowls 9:20 - Matt talks about playing against Tom Brady in Super Bowl 38 12:36 - Matt explains how he started acting 17:39 - Matt shares what he learned from his acting coach 20:29 - Matt talks about the difference between high budget and low budget sets 22:24 - Matt talks about meeting the Rock and playing Andre the Giant on the Young Rock 35:46 - Matt talks about his role in the movie “Concussion” 41:44 - Matt discusses his role in “We’re the Millers” 44:12 - Matt shares his favorite role 45:13 - Matt talks about meeting Bruce Willis 45:59 - Matt shares the coolest place he’s ever filmed 47:29 - Matt reveals his personal Mount Rushmore *NOTE: Time codes are approximate The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, Super Bowl champion Kevin Boothe joins Peanut and Roman. Kevin shares his welcome to the NFL moment provided by Warren Sapp. He also talks about making it to the NFL from an Ivy League school. Kevin won two Super Bowls with the Giants, and shares what it was like to be on the field for "The Catch" made by David Tyree in Super Bowl XLII. After playing, Kevin stayed connected to the game, and talks about his current role in the NFL League Office working in player engagement. And, he gives some insight into how he became a member of the "Quill and Dagger Society." 0:00 – start of episode 1:29 - Kevin is introduced 2:28 - Playing football in the Ivy League 4:32 - Studying hotel administration at Cornell 5:32 - Welcome to the NFL moment 6:08 - Kevin talks about his rookie year in Oakland 7:30 - Kevin discusses his two Super Bowl wins 8:45 - Kevin relives David Tyree’s helmet catch in Super Bowl XLII 12:35 - Kevin talks about Mario Manningham’s clutch catch in Super Bowl XLVI 13:25 - Kevin shares what it was like to play for Tom Coughlin 16:55 - Kevin talks about going back to Oakland for his final season 21:07 - Kevin talks about losing weight after leaving football 24:30 - Kevin discusses going back to school for his MBA 27:39 - Kevin explains what an NFL player engagement staff person does 30:38 - Roman shares how the Giants attempted to trade for him 32:08 - Kevin says the Giants were afraid to play the Saints in the 2011 playoffs 35:02 - Kevin explains the quill and dagger society 36:45 - Kevin shares his person Mount Rushmore *NOTE: Times codes are approximate The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest NFL Players: Second Acts podcast, former New York Jets All-Pro center Nick Mangold joins Peanut and Roman. Nick starts out telling the story about drinking a beer during his Jets Ring of Honor induction speech. He also waxes poetic on what it’s like to play for the passionate Jets fan base his entire career. Nick shares why the 4th and 1 vs the Chargers in the 2009 playoffs is a career highlight for him. Nick also won in college and talks about what it was like winning a national championship at Ohio State. After football, Nick has gotten into the barbecue sauce business. He shares what he’s cooking up with his Mangold’s 74 BBQ sauces and the challenges he faced starting his business during the pandemic. 00:56 - Nick Mangold intro 3:32 - Nick talks about his college career and winning a National Championship as a college freshman 8:13 - Nick discusses getting into the Ohio State University Hall of Fame 10:39 - Nick talks about meeting his teammate D’brickashaw Ferguson at the draft 13:33 - Nick recaps the Jets decision to go for it on 4th and 1 vs the Chargers in the 2009 playoffs 14:37 - Nick shares his favorite play with Mark Sanchez 16:01 - The guys discuss centers making in-game calls 19:29 - Peanut shares Nick’s PFF lineman grades 20:48 - Nick explains what Jets fans are like 26:11 - Roman asks Nick how he knew it was time to retire 30:54 - Nick talks about finishing his college degree 36:04 - Nick explains how he started a BBQ sauce business 40:29 - Nick talks about the challenge of launching his business during the Covid-19 pandemic 43:27 - The guys discuss their favorite foods to grill 45:18 - Nick shares his personal Mount Rushmore **NOTE: Time codes are approximate. The NFL Players: Second Acts podcast is a production of the NFL in partnership with iHeart Radio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.