The Spotrac Podcast

Fantasy Favorites Playing for Pay Days, & Top NFL Team Spenders

Which players soaring up fantasy draft boards are heading toward a pay day in 2022? Plus, the biggest NFL spenders by roster & position, dead cap, & plenty more. And, breaking down Russell Wilson's mega extension in Denver.

Russell Wilson's Extension & the State of Quarterback Contracts with Joel Corry

Former NFL agent & salary cap expert Joel Corry joins to discuss the impact that Russell Wilson's contract - and its lack total guarantee - will have on the QB market going forward, including Lamar Jackson's standstill, & pending negotiations for Joe Burrow & Justin Herbert.

Garoppolo's Restructure, NFL Cutdown Day, & Future Player Props

Mike Ginnitti discusses Jimmy Garoppolo's restructured contract and what it might mean for the 2022 season. Plus, the Raiders punt on another first rounder, the Saints stay one step ahead, and the Eagles can't sit still. And, Scott Allen joins for NFL Player Prop bets this season.

Julio Rodriguez Contract Analysis, & Making the Value Case for Russell & Lamar

Julio Rodriguez's contract isn't about a team taking a flier on a young player. The upfront guarantees, and layers of conditionals, signify that a star has arrived, & is nowhere near his prime. Mike Ginnitti breaks down the various segments of this complicated contract. Plus, as the NFL season approaches, are we discussing Lamar Jackson properly, & Russell Wilson not enough?

Brainstorming a Better NBA, & PGA Tour Ambassador Tiger Woods

Scott Allen discusses ideas he'd like to see addressed in the future NBA, including a restructure of max contracts, dynasty tax bill benefits, realignment with expansion, and plenty more. Plus, Tiger Woods' importance to the PGA Tour is about to stretch far wider than the golf course.

Analyzing the Top NFL Free Agent Contracts, Highest Paid Players, & Derwin James

Mike Ginnitti breaks down the facts, figures, & rankings of Derwin James' extension with the Chargers. Plus, assessing the Top Free Agent Contract at each position this offseason, & the Top Average Paid Player positionally as well.

The MLB Early Extension Process

Dan Soemann & Mike Ginnitti break down MLB's latest pre-arbitration extension, how the Braves have signed their core, other teams that have followed suit, and which players around the league might be next. Plus, LeBron locks in with the Lakers - for now.

Fernando Tatis Jr., & 2022 Running Back Money Tiers

Running Back contracts in the NFL are becoming a dime a dozen, with no one much stronger than the next. We dive deep into which RBs have a bit of financial security right now, a few that are trending in that direction, and the long list who are playing year to year. Plus Fernando Tatis Jr.'s PED suspension, by the numbers.

Kareem Hunt, Roquan Smith, Jimmy Garoppolo, & the NFL Next Contract Roster

Mike Ginnitti discusses the status and future financials for Kareem Hunt (CLE), Roquan Smith (CHI), & Jimmy Garoppolo (SF), before a position by position breakdown of the next NFL players soon to cash in big.

2022 NFL Win Totals, Divisional Discussions, MVP Candidates, & Franchise Valuations

Our annual over/under discussion expands into value betting the league, a few potential sleeper division winners, realistic MVP candidates, & Sportico's latest franchise valuations.

MLB Trades Recap, LeBron's Financial Future, & NFL Extension Candidates

The MLB Trade Deadline didn't disappoint. From Juan Soto & Josh Hader upgrading the Padres, to the Braves trying to replicate 2021, & a few major pitchers on the move, plenty of teams have ramped up for the second half of the season. Plus, Sarah Lang's 9 Fun Facts about Juan Soto's trade, notable NFL Extension Candidates, & LeBron James' looming contract extension eligibility. 

Deshaun's Suspension, Deebo's Extension, MLB Trade Headlines & LIV Cash

Breaking down the facts & figures surrounding Deshaun Watson's recommended 6 game suspension. Plus, Deebo Samuel's $71.5M extension in San Francisco is the latest WR payout, recapping the biggest headlines as we approach Tuesday's MLB Trade Deadline, & another major payout for LIV Golf.

The Juan Soto Trade Show

Juan Soto's trade out of Washington doesn't just seem possible, it appears imminent. Dan Soemann discusses which teams are involved, the types of prospect offers that should be considered, a rental versus long-term buy, and plenty more. Plus, LIV Golf is already expanding, and a bit of a calm before another NBA storm?

Kyler Murray's Extension, WR Money Tiers, & the NHL Offseason Lives

Kyler Murray's extension in Arizona becomes the next big NFL contract to dissect every which way. Mike Ginnitti breaks down the cap & cash flow, strong guarantee structure, and all the facts & figures surrounding the massive deal. Plus, categorizing 60 Wide Receiver contracts into financial tiers was bound to bring out a few nuggets. 

Juan Soto's Offer, Ayton's Max, NBA Summer Moves, & NFL Updates

The Nationals found another way to make $400M+ look bad this week, sending Juan Soto onto the trade block with their most recent offer. Plus, Deandre Ayton returns to the Suns on a "max contract". What that means for Phoenix, what's next for the Pacers, and how does the rest of the summer look from a trade perspective. And, outlining current Starting QB Money Tiers, what the future holds for Orlando Brown, Mike Gesicki, Dalton Schultz, & Jessie Bates.

NHL Free Agency, the Restricted Royals, an Orioles Surge, & Projecting NFL Headline

Dan Soemann & Mike Ginnitti recap a solid first 24 hours to the NHL offseason, including trade, extension, & free agent movements. Then, the Royals will head to Toronto plenty short-handed, what that means for the future trade markets. And, the Orioles are dead last in the AL East, but over .500 and suddenly relevant. Plus, it's all quiet in the NFL right now - but coming soon...

NBA Breakdowns & More Wide Receiver Money

Bradley Beal's loyalty to Washington landed him the most security in the NBA. Plus, what's holding up Brunson & the Knicks, are the Timberwolves a sneaky good zag team, and more official contract breakdowns from the across the league. Also, Terry McLaurin joins a dozen other wide receivers with a new contract this offseason. How his numbers stack up to the rest.

The Baker Mayfield Trade, MLB Best Values, Aaron Judge's Finale, and Complicated Durant Ideas

Baker Mayfield's move to Carolina was inevitable, but when, and how exactly the financials would split up, were very much unknown. Mike Ginnitti breaks down the numbers and outlook for today's big move. Plus, a midseason look at MLB's best values based on our True Value Stat, the Yankees might be preparing for a big Aaron Judge finale, and trading Kevin Durant isn't as easy as 1-2-3, says the CBA.

NBA Free Agency, Brunson & the Knicks, Gobert's Trade, Durant Next?

Rudy Gobert's trade price may have torn a hole in the potential for other NBA stars to move this summer. That won't stop Kevin Durant from trying. What his latest trade demand means for the NBA, and its comparison to other sports right now. Plus, did the Knicks illegally woo Jalen Brunson, where will James Harden's "hero deal" land, and Lu Dort got what?

Ranking the Top 10 2022 NFL Trades, & Freddie Freeman's Regretful Free Agency

It was another NFL offseason loaded with blockbuster trades, headlined by a few big time quarterback moves, and the "Summer of the WR". Which transactions made the list? Plus, Freddie Freeman's return to Atlanta brought out a whole lot more than sweet emotions. What went down this winter that has the former MVP firing his representation and speaking out.

NBA Free Agency, Trade Candidates, Important Dates, & Betting Values

The week leading up to the new NBA League Year never disappoints, as option decisions are do, last minute transactions from the current year are finalized, and reports begin to circulate about who may be headed where. Scott Allen helps walk us through the semantics of how the upcoming offseason could lay out, including free agency thoughts, trade candidates, team betting values, & plenty more. Plus, evaluating Shohei Ohtani was impossible, but we tried. And, NFL content buyers beware this week.

#403: NBA Draft Takeaways, Judge vs. Ohtani, & More Deshaun Contract Thoughts

Keith Smith recaps a few notable highlights from the NBA Draft, and their effect on potential outcomes this offseason. Plus, Aaron Judge finally has a 2022 salary, what the process means for his future financially, and how Shohei Ohtani's situation should start to be monitored. And, should the Browns actually want Deshaun Watson suspended for all of 2022?

Bold NBA Draft & Offseason Discussions

With the 2022 NBA Draft here, we dive into questions on the rookie scale, potential trade ups, best fits, future thoughts on Bradley Beal, John Wall, the Jazz, Knicks, Thunder, and plenty more.

Minkah's Extension, Carolina Baker & an MLB Round Up with Dan Soemann & Britt Ghiroli

The Athletic's Britt Ghiroli joins to discuss the floundering Washington Nationals, and where the team may be headed with a franchise sale, a full rebuild, & Juan Soto. Plus, Dan Soemann updates us on MLB teams and players to watch via trade, new contract, or betting values. And, Minkah Fitzpatrick locks in historic numbers with the Steelers, and Baker Mayfield's market may be reheating.

#400: NFL Market Increases, LIV Money, Stanley Cup Thoughts, & the Orioles' Payroll

Mike Ginnitti discusses the numbers and trends behind the financial market resets at each NFL position over the past few years. Plus, the Stanley Cup final is worth the price of admission, LIV payouts explained, and why the Orioles deserve so much better.

#399: Deshaun Watson, Aaron Rodgers, the NFL Salary Cap, & MLB Trade Candidates

As the NFL breaks for the summer, Deshaun Watson's off-field storylines are only increasing. Will the league step in? Are the Browns properly covered? What if this drags into 2023? Plus, Aaron Rodgers' future & financials in Green Bay, & why the NFL salary cap is real, even if it feels like a mirage at times. And, an early June assessment of MLB buyers and sellers, and which names may hit the trade block come July.

#398: NFL Extension Candidates, Aaron Judge, & Rafael Nadal

A deep dive into prospective negotiations for Rams WR Cooper Kupp & Broncos QB Russell Wilson, plus quick thoughts on a dozen or so other potential extension candidates. Also, Aaron Judge is playing himself into the perfect next contract storm, and Rafael Nadal's magic is still unparalleled. 

#397: Projecting Zion Williamson's Contract, & Value Betting NFL Division Winners

Keith Smith gives thoughts on how the Pelicans and Zion Williamson may find common ground on a contract extension this offseason, including the use of injury conditionals not unlike Joel Embiid's current deal in Philly. And, Dan Soemann discusses NFL Division winner odds as the calendar flips to June, including decent valued favorites, and a few sleepers to consider.

#396: Valuing Current NFL Holdouts

A dozen notable #NFL players are absent from their respective team's OTA workouts right now. Our thoughts on the reasoning, contractual relevance, projected financials & outcomes for each. Plus, a few notable notes on the NBA Finals matchup.

#395: All-NBA Money, US Soccer's New CBA, & Crypto Infiltrates Sports

Scott Allen discusses players who stand to benefit financially from All-NBA or seasonal award selections (2:53). Plus, Sportico's Emily Caron returns to break down US Soccer's new CBA, its equal pay distribution for men & women, and plenty more (31:45). And, The Athletic's Daniel Kaplan discusses the pros and cons of professional sports leagues & teams partnering with cryptocurrency exchanges (45:28).

#394: Late NFL Free Agency, Aaron Donald, & a New York Mets Deep Dive

How the rest of the NFL offseason looks financially speaking, including Aaron Donald's contract request with the Rams. Plus, the New York Mets sit comfortably atop the NL East at the quarter turn, but injuries to their pitching aces, and a few notable positional holes leave question marks through the summer. Will they continue to add aggressively? Is a Pete Alonso extension on the horizon?

#393: NBA Draft & Offseason Primers with Keith Smith

#392: MLB Bests & Worsts, MVP Money, & the Future of the 49ers

Deebo Samuel's early offseason angst had many wondering where the 49ers were headed for 2022. What does it mean that things have gone silent? Plus, early team & player surprises in MLB - both good and bad. And, how many MLB MVPs have hit the open market immediately after?

#391: NBA Playoff Team Future Financials

A dive into one player from each of the remaining #NBA playoff teams who will enter the offseason with financial questions, including extensions for Tyler Herro & Ja Morant, the future of James Harden, & what happens if Chris Paul retires? Plus, Tom Brady is about get richer.

#390: NFL Offseason Deep Dive: Part 2

A deep dive into the offseason moves, headlines, & financials for the rest of the NFL, stemming from the Jacksonville Jaguars to the Washington Commanders. Plus, assessing the leading MLB teams with nearly 20% of the 2022 season now behind us.

#389: NFL Offseason Deep Dive: Part 1

A deep offseason financial dive into the first half of NFL teams, including notable signings, draft selections, & a few question marks and headlines going forward for each. Plus, how money lost is calculated for NFL suspensions, & assessing new deals for Grady Jarrett & A.J. Brown.

#388: Drafted QBs, MLB's Best, & the Utah Jazz

How the QBs drafted in 2022 will impact their respective rosters immediately and down the road. Plus, an offseason outlook for the Utah Jazz, Chicago Bulls, & NBA Big Men. And, early on this season, MLB's high-paid stars are setting the tone.

#387: 5th-Year Options, NHL Star Power, & the Brooklyn Nets Offseason

Understanding and assessing 5th year options for the 2019 1st Round Draft Class, a breakdown of the rookie wage scale & how contract values and guarantees are projected to change from Pick 1 to 262. Plus, a quick dive into Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, & the NHL's high-paid, talented crop. And, swept out of the first round, the Brooklyn Nets face plenty of financial question marks heading into the offseason.

#386: Facts & Figures for the 2022 NFL Draft

Mike Ginnitti breaks down a variety of themes surrounding the upcoming NFL draft, including projected rookie contracts, recent draft picks trades, positions of strength, must-follow teams, and plenty more.

#385: Best Available NFL Free Agents & Notable MLB Extension Candidates

Dan Soemann breaks down a strong list of MLB players, young & old, who could be in line for a new payday in the coming months. Plus, just a week out from the NFL Draft, there are still plenty of notable available free agents seeking an NFL team for 2022.

#384: Derek Carr's Extension, Potential NFL Holdouts, & Changing NBA Financials

Derek Carr's extension could be nothing more than a one year pay raise, but is smart business no matter the outcome. Plus, a few notable NFL players are avoiding their teams now - why that won't be the case come summer. And, where are all the highest paid NBA players this time of year?

#383: NBA Expansion, & a MLB Daily Fantasy Preview

Keith Smith joins to extrapolate on his recent NBA Expansion piece for spotrac.com, highlighting the potential impact, and possible destinations for new teams. Plus, Dan Soemann breaks down a few notable notes surrounding the daily fantasy scene for the brand new MLB season.

#382: NBA Final Numbers & Aaron Judge's Non-Extension

A dive into the final financials for the NBA regular season, including playoff spenders, most money doled out for injuries, fines, suspensions, & quick thoughts on the upcoming play-in series. Plus, the Yankees were fully transparent about their negotiations with soon to be free agent Aaron Judge.

#381: The Exploding WR Market, NBA Financial Futures, & MLB Payroll Trivia

Stefon Diggs' new contract with the Bills is yet another push forward for a WR market that has taken off this spring. Plus, Keith Smith talks financial futures for Ayton, Beal, Harden, Zion, LaVine, & more. And, a few fun facts & figures surrounding MLB payrolls heading into 2022.

#380: An MLB Preview with Cousin Dan

Dan Soemann joins to help preview the upcoming MLB season, including notable offseason moves, signings, & remaining options. Plus, how will the 12-team playoff alter our thinking of roster building, which teams seem viable for division titles, and best and worst contracts heading toward April. Also, Xavien Howard's sort of extension in Miami, and another Oakland A's fire sale.

#379: Lamar Jackson, D.K. Metcalf, Safe & Scary NFL Free Agent Contracts

Lamar Jackson's next contract with Baltimore has risen to the top of the NFL offseason rumor mountain. Why the process to pay him isn't as formulaic as it used to be. Plus, are the Seahawks in a position to extend D.K. Metcalf, or is he destined for a 2023 franchise tag? And, a few safe & potentially scary recently signed NFL free agent contracts.

#378: The All-NBA Dilemma, Star Trade Candidates, & a One-And-Done NFL Go-Offseason?

Defining which NBA players have been the best at their "position" in any given year has become increasingly difficult. With millions attached to All-NBA designations, our thoughts on how the league can modify this process going forward. Plus, Zion Williamson headlines a list of potential star players on the early trade block. And, the NFL has had an offseason, but is that type of movement here to stay?

#377: Assessing the 2022 QB Movement, & a Yankees Deep Dive with Lindsey Adler

It didn't take long for nearly every QB rumored to be on the move to finalize his position for the 2022 season. Mike Ginnitti discusses the new landing spots, guaranteed costs, & potential outlook for the 10 or so QBs who changed teams or signed new contracts, including thoughts on what's next for Baker Mayfield. Plus The Athletic's Lindsey Adler joins to break down a seemingly quiet offseason, and why she believes that might be exactly what the doctor ordered.

#376: Big-time NFL Trades, Calculated Signings, & an Historic MLB Free Agency

Mike Ginnitti & Scott Allen discuss the big NFL moves of the week, including Aaron Rodgers in, Davante Adams out. How the Raiders big offseason shuffle appears to be 100% calculated. And why the NFL might never be the same after these latest transactions. Plus, MLB Free Agency has now poured in over $3.1B of new signings.

#375: A Tiny NFL Pre-Agency Recap, & Notable MLB Signings

Mike Ginnitti discusses Aaron Rodgers' contract details, Von Miller's terms in Buffalo, plus overall team moves for the Chargers, Jaguars, & Cardinals. Plus, Kris Bryant to the Rockies, a new contender in the AL East, & how the Nationals are stepping up their offer to Juan Soto.