3 and Out with John Middlekauff

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Latest Episodes:

Mike Vrabel Press Conference Reaction + NFL Pre-Draft Mailbag Apr 22, 2026

Show notes

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.

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49ers Lock In Trent Williams, Inside the GM Mindset Before the Draft & Teams NOT trading draft picks Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

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.

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Dexter Lawrence BLOCKBUSTER trade, Will Anderson MASSIVE extension, NFL Draft prospect Zachariah Branch arrested Apr 20, 2026

Show notes

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.

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Browns WON the Travis Hunter trade, Broncos justify Waddle trade, NFL Offseason Mailbag Apr 17, 2026

Show notes

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.

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LIV Golf is being SHUTDOWN? NFL Draft Thoughts + NFL Offseason Mailbag Apr 16, 2026

Show notes

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.

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Where will Love go, Dontayvion Wicks or AJ Brown in Philly, Mailbag Apr 15, 2026

Show notes

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.

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Rueben Bain news REACTION, Sonny Styles is an ELITE prospect + NFL Offseason Mailbag Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

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.

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Go Low - 2026 Masters Reaction: Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Justin Rose, Cameron Young Apr 13, 2026

Show notes

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!

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Colin Cowherd Podcast - Rory REPEATS At The Masters, A Tradition Like No Other, Vrabel/Russini Controversy, NFL Draft Preview Apr 13, 2026

Show notes

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.)

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NFL Offseason Mailbag: Mendoza Overhyped? Herbert, Hurts, or Darnold? Criticism for Dak? Apr 10, 2026

Show notes

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

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