3 and Out with John Middlekauff

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Latest Episodes:

Knicks Are NBA Champs, Jalen Brunson's Underdog Story, Aldon Smith Remembered & Which NFL Franchises NEED a Super Bowl Most? Jun 15, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into Jalen Brunson’s incredible rise and the underdog mentality that has helped define his career. John breaks down why leadership, toughness, and mentality often matter just as much as raw talent when building winning teams.

John also gives a reality check on Victor Wembanyama, discussing the sky-high expectations surrounding the young superstar and what fair expectations should actually look like.

Plus, why the NBA Finals genuinely mattered this year—not just for basketball, but for the league’s broader narrative—and what made this championship run feel different. John also admits where he was wrong about Team USA Soccer and reflects on how his perspective has changed.

The episode also includes a moment to remember Aldon Smith and the impact he had on football during his career.

To wrap things up, John discusses whether firing a great coach ever truly works and what the Knicks’ championship meant to New Yorkers, a fan base that has waited decades for a title.

From sports psychology and player evaluation to championship legacy and coaching philosophy, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out.

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Sean Payton Extension, Knicks Historic Comeback, Phil Mickelson Banned From Country Club Jun 12, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to the Denver Broncos giving head coach Sean Payton a massive contract extension and what that means for the long-term success of the franchise.

He breaks down the Knicks historic come from behind win over the Spurs and what led to the Spurs incredible late collapse, and weighs in on Phil Mickelson being kicked out of his country club for inappropriate conduct toward a female employee of the club.

For his Fugazi Friday special, John explains why does NOT love owning a pool.

To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL and college football topics.

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Mahomes Gets Paid Again, Cousins & Mendoza, Brendan Sorsby Update & Mailbag Jun 11, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to Patrick Mahomes landing another contract extension and breaks down what the deal means for the Kansas City Chiefs, the quarterback market, and the future of the NFL’s biggest dynasty.

John also dives into the situation involving Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza, discussing reports that Cousins has no interest in serving as a mentor and what that dynamic could mean for the quarterback room moving forward. How should teams balance veteran leadership with competition, and is mentoring really part of a quarterback’s job description?

Plus, the latest developments surrounding Brendan Sorsby and the ongoing story that continues to make waves in the football world. John shares his thoughts on where things stand and what the situation could mean going forward.

To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL and college football topics.

From blockbuster contracts and quarterback dynamics to the latest headlines around the sport, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out.

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George Pickens & Christian Gonzalez Hold-Ins, Browns QB Battle, Tom Brady's "Good Nut" + NFL Offseason Mailbag Jun 10, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into some of the biggest stories around the NFL, starting with the latest contract situations across the league and the growing trend of players choosing to “hold in” rather than hold out. John breaks down the cases of George Pickens and Christian Gonzalez and what these standoffs mean for their teams.

The conversation then shifts to Cleveland, where the Browns’ quarterback situation continues to generate headlines. John analyzes the dynamic between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, the expectations surrounding both players, and what the competition could mean for the franchise moving forward.

Plus, John discusses media narratives and reactions to Commanders GM Adam Peters’ comments about Jayden Daniels’ pre-draft Top Golf visit, examining how stories can take on a life of their own during the NFL calendar.

Off the field, John reacts to Tom Brady launching his new coconut water brand, Good Nut, and breaks down the business side of athlete-backed ventures. He also explains the details behind Pat McAfee’s reported $60 million ESPN deal and what it says about the value of sports media personalities in today’s landscape.

The episode also features another edition of Dad Diaries, as John shares the story of "The Onesie Incident" and the unpredictable adventures of parenthood.

To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL topics.

From contract negotiations and quarterback battles to sports business and life as a dad, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out.

Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.

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Brendan Sorsby Update, Baker’s Contract Situation, NFL Energy Levels & Mailbag Jun 09, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down the latest developments surrounding Brendan Sorsby and what the news could mean for his future both on and off the field.

John also dives into Baker Mayfield’s contract situation in Tampa Bay. Why hasn’t a new deal gotten done yet, and what factors could be impacting negotiations between the Buccaneers and their quarterback? John examines the business side of the NFL and what both parties may be thinking as discussions continue.

Plus, John shares his perspective on one of the most underrated aspects of professional sports—the difference in energy between practice, the regular season, and the playoffs. From the intensity of playoff football to the day-to-day grind of the practice field, he explains what separates each environment and why it matters for players and coaches.

To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL and college football topics.

From quarterback contracts and player news to behind-the-scenes football insight, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out.

Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.

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Commanders GM Adam Peters on Breaking Into the NFL, the Belichick Years, Top Golf QB Visit Drama, & Drafting Sonny Styles Jun 08, 2026

Show notes

On this special episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff sits down with Washington Commanders General Manager Adam Peters for an in-depth conversation about his journey through the NFL and the lessons he learned from some of the league’s most successful organizations.

Adam discusses how he first broke into the NFL, what it was like working inside the Patriots' dynasty under Bill Belichick, and the invaluable experience he gained during New England’s championship run. He also shares why he decided to leave the Patriots for an opportunity with John Elway and the Denver Broncos, and how those years helped shape his front-office philosophy.

The conversation then turns to Peters’ time with the San Francisco 49ers, where he learned the art of negotiation and roster building while working alongside John Lynch and one of the NFL’s premier front offices.

John and Adam also dive into the Commanders' recent draft decisions, including the controversy surrounding Jayden Daniels’ Topgolf visit during the pre-draft process and what ultimately made Daniels the right choice to lead Washington's future. Plus, Peters explains what stood out about Sonny Styles and why the Commanders were excited to bring him into the organization.

From career advice and front-office strategy to quarterback evaluations and draft-day decisions, this is a fascinating look inside the mind of one of the NFL’s top general managers on 3 & Out.

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Russell Wilson Retires from Football, Ben Johnson Yells at Reporter, Steelers have a LOYALTY problem, Eric Weddle goes after Bryce Underwood + Fugazi Friday Jun 05, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to Russell Wilson officially calling it a career and reportedly heading to CBS Sports. What kind of broadcaster could Russ become, and how should his NFL legacy be remembered?

John also discusses the viral moment from Ben Johnson’s press conference, where the Bears head coach was visibly irritated after a reporter’s phone went off during the session. Was the reaction justified, or was it much ado about nothing?

Plus, the Steelers continue to invest in their young core, handing out major extensions to Nick Herbig and Darnell Washington. John breaks down what the moves say about Pittsburgh’s long-term vision and why both players are important pieces of the franchise's future.

The conversation then shifts to Minnesota, where Kevin O’Connell addressed the quarterback situation and shared his thoughts on Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy. John analyzes the comments and what they could mean for the Vikings heading into the season.

John also reacts to former NFL safety Eric Weddle’s negative comments regarding Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood, discussing expectations, evaluations, and the challenges young quarterbacks face before ever taking a snap at the next level.

To wrap things up, Fugazi Friday returns as John separates what's real from what's not around the NFL and sports world.

From quarterback news and coaching storylines to front-office decisions and college football debates, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out.

Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.

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Andy Reid Joins the Show, ACL Recovery Timelines, A.J. Brown Fallout & Mailbag Jun 04, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff is joined by Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid for an in-depth conversation on leadership, building a championship culture, managing expectations, and what it takes to stay at the top of the NFL. One of the most respected coaches in football shares insight from his Hall of Fame-caliber career and the continued success of the Chiefs.

John also dives into the reality of ACL recovery in today’s NFL, discussing how timelines have changed, what teams expect from players returning from major knee injuries, and why every recovery process is unique.

Plus, a closer look at A.J. Brown’s departure from Philadelphia. How was the situation handled by the Eagles, and what can we learn from the way one of the league’s biggest roster moves unfolded? John breaks down the business, communication, and football implications behind the move.

To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL topics.

From a special interview with Andy Reid to player recovery, roster management, and fan questions, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out.

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NFL Offseason Mailbag: Browns-Rams Trade Dissected, Jared Verse's Ceiling, Andrew Berry's Rebuild Vision + Rams GM Les Snead's Art of the Big Swing Jun 03, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff continues to break down the blockbuster Myles Garrett trade and what it means for both the Los Angeles Rams and Cleveland Browns moving forward.

John explains why Rams GM Les Snead has never been afraid to take major swings, how that aggressive philosophy has shaped the franchise, and why adding a player of Garrett’s caliber fits perfectly with the Rams’ approach to team building.

On the other side of the deal, John examines why Browns GM Andrew Berry ultimately decided to pull the trigger. Was it about maximizing value, resetting the roster, or recognizing where the franchise stands? John breaks down the difficult decisions that front offices face when moving elite talent and what this trade says about Cleveland’s future.

To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and offering insight on the biggest stories across the NFL.

From front-office strategy to roster construction and the fallout from one of the biggest trades of the year, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out.

Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.

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BLOCKBUSTER NFL Trade Day: Myles Garrett to LA Rams, AJ Brown to New England + NFL Offseason Mailbag Jun 02, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to one of the wildest days of the NFL offseason. The Los Angeles Rams make a blockbuster move by acquiring Myles Garrett, instantly changing the outlook of the NFC and adding another superstar to an already talented roster.

John also breaks down the not so stunning A.J. Brown-to-Patriots trade and what it means for both franchises. How did New England pull it off, and what does the move mean for the Eagles moving forward?

Plus, the New York Giants bring Odell Beckham Jr. back to the Big Apple while concerns continue to swirl around Malik Nabers’ knee. John discusses what both developments mean for the Giants as they look to build a competitive offense.

The episode also features another installment of Dad Diaries, as John shares his experience surviving the dreaded four-month sleep regression and the realities of life with a young baby.

To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and covering the biggest topics from around the NFL and beyond.

From blockbuster trades to personal stories and everything in between, 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

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