Matt Waldman: A Jeremiyah Love-Quinshon Judkins RB duo would be the best combo you’ve had since Earnest Byner and Kevin Mack
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Matt Waldman, rookie scouting expert, joins the Afternoon Drive on 92.3 The Fan to discuss the Cleveland Browns' draft strategy and potential player combinations. He praises a hypothetical duo of Jeremiah Love and Quinshon Judkins, calling it the best running back pairing since Earnest Byner and Kevin Mack, due to their complementary size, speed, and playmaking potential. Waldman critiques the Browns' ownership, particularly Jimmy Haslam, for interfering in draft decisions—citing the Johnny Manziel pro day debacle as a prime example—arguing that front office personnel are often overruled by owners seeking media buzz over sound scouting. He contrasts this with Andrew Barry’s strong 2025 draft, suggesting a possible shift toward empowering the scouting team. Waldman also evaluates quarterbacks, labeling Ty Simpson as a 'thermometer' player who thrives in good environments but struggles under pressure, and praises Fernando Mendoza as the only 'thermostat' quarterback in the class. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong offensive line and defensive foundation to attract veteran quarterbacks, using the Seahawks’ success with Darnold as a model. Overall, Waldman advocates for trust in the football operations team and long-term team-building over flashy, ownership-driven picks.
A Jeremiah Love and Quinshon Judkins RB duo could be the best in the NFL since Byner and Mack.
Cleveland Browns ownership has historically interfered with draft decisions, undermining scouting expertise.
Ty Simpson is a 'thermometer' quarterback—good in strong systems, but vulnerable in chaos.
Fernando Mendoza is the only 'thermostat' QB in the 2026 class, capable of elevating weak teams.
Building a strong offensive line and defense is key to attracting veteran QBs and enabling rookie success.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introducing Matt Waldman and the Kyle Wright Hotline
Kyle Wright welcomes Matt Waldman, rookie scouting portfolio expert, to the Make It Right Call, setting the stage for a deep dive into NFL draft strategy and Cleveland Browns' decision-making.
Love and Judkins: A Top-Tier RB Duo?
“I think within a couple of years, you would say that it was a top-tier duo. I mean, absolutely, because you could see that as a bigger, stronger, faster version of David Montgomery and Jameer Gibbs... It would probably be the best combo you had since Beiner and Mack in terms of that kind of thing.”
Ownership Interference in the Browns' Draft Process
“I can't imagine being a scout seeing that mess unfold on a pro day, even though pro days aren't supposed to mean much and think that we found a leader. We found someone in our organization who was worthwhile like that.”
Andrew Barry’s 2025 Draft and a Possible Shift in Culture
Waldman expresses cautious optimism about the Browns' 2025 draft, suggesting that Andrew Barry’s success may indicate a growing trust in the front office and a possible end to ownership meddling.
Ty Simpson: A 'Thermometer' QB in Need of a Strong System
“He's a first-year starter. You see the fact that he's one of those guys that when things don't go right or as he expected them to, he can lose his game management wisdom. He kind of compounds mistakes early trying to do too much.”
“It's not so much about how they go about doing things, but can they let the people who are in the building to do a job be paid to do their job without countermanding it and playing like Caesar of a fantasy football team.”
“I can't imagine being a scout seeing that mess unfold on a pro day, even though pro days aren't supposed to mean much and think that we found a leader. We found someone in our organization who was worthwhile like that.”
“Look at the Seattle Seahawks. That's exactly what happened. They were a couple offensive linemen away, and a different coaching staff in terms of how they gelled things together, but the defense had some good talent. They built their receivers. They started to add to that offensive line, and Darnold came in there, and he was good enough for them to be able to win a championship.”
Host
Guest
Matt Waldman
person
Quinshon Judkins
person
Andrew Barry
person
Jeremiah Love
person
Jimmy Haslam
person
Ty Simpson
person
Baker Mayfield
person
Fernando Mendoza
person
Sam Darnold
person
Seattle Seahawks
other
Does Todd Monken Already Have a Favorite at Quarterback?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
Are the Browns Trying To Throw Everyone Off the Scent With QB Competition?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 15m • 3/31/2026
Quick Hits: Aaron Rodgers heading back to Pittsburgh?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 12m • 3/31/2026
What's more compelling: Shohei Ohtani vs. Guardians or LeBron James vs. Cavaliers
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
Joe DeLeone: Browns can leverage the No. 6 pick if Jeremiyah Love is still available; I’d rather wait until No. 24 to draft a WR
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
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