The Spotrac Podcast

NBA Finals, Ed Oliver, NFL Stadiums, the Oakland A's & Question Mark Contracts

Mike Ginnitti offers a little analysis & betting advice for the currently locked up NBA Finals matchup. Plus, a little clarity surrounding Ed Oliver's surprise extension in Buffalo, comparing construction/public funding costs for recently built NFL stadiums as the Bills break ground in Orchard Park. Potential new developments in the $56M Oakland A's future, & question mark contracts from each NFL team.

Post June 1st Designations, the Arizona Cardinals, & Deandre Hopkins

Mike Ginnitti details the 6 NFL teams set to gain cap space thanks to their respective Post June 1st Designated releases, including how both 2023 & 2024 have been impacted. Plus, the March Arizona Cardinals & the May Arizona Cardinals appear to be two different franchises, so where is this team headed in 2023 & beyond? And, Deandre Hopkins is officially a free agent, and the big sharks are circling him. What kind of contract is to be expected in the coming days?

Top NBA Free Agents, Austin Reaves, & the Lakers' Offseason

Mike Ginnitti details the latest evidence of financial struggles at the running back position, as Austin Ekeler's push for a new contract was converted into earnable incentives. Then, Keith Smith joins to break down his Top 10 NBA Free Agents to be, what's next for the Lakers, & more specifically, what's next for Austin Reaves?

PGA Payouts, Aaron Hicks, & NFL's Best Available Free Agents

PGA Championship Payouts, Aaron Hicks' ousting from New York, an undrafted free agent recap, and the Best Available NFL Free Agents remaining this summer.

Analyzing MLB at the Quarter Turn

With MLB now at the quarter turn, Mike Ginnitti & Dan Soemann evaluate notable free agent contracts, extensions & trades from this winter. Plus, detailing potential award candidates, Top Payroll Playoff possibilities, & a few surprises thus far.

Future Thoughts on Harden, Morant, the Warriors & More

Mike Ginnitti details James Harden's pending player option/free agency, Ja Morant's (5:50) looming suspension, & a Warriors offseason (7:42) that may not be as explosive as currently advertised. Plus NBA Draft Lottery Odds (16:53), notable MLB Free Agents (24:34), & Matt Ryan's career earnings (28:07) as he heads into the CBS booth.

A Mahomes Restructure, Jordan Love's Extension, & All-NBA Contract Ramifications

With new contracts for Jalen Hurts & Lamar Jackson now on the books, the Kansas City Chiefs haven't been shy about their intent to make good on what has been a cash-friendly Patrick Mahomes deal. Our thoughts on what changes may be coming to his current contract. Plus, breaking down Jordan Love's win-win deal in Green Bay, and which NBA players are set to cash in with All-NBA selections under their belt.

Breaking Down Lamar Jackson's Blockbuster Contract

Mike Ginnitti details the 5 year, $260M contract for Lamar Jackson, including guarantee structure, potential out scenarios, & plenty more. Plus, a MLB Payroll vs. Win Percentage update, and an MLB Luxury Tax snapshot breakdown.

NFL 5th-Year Option Analysis & an NBA Update with Keith Smith

Keith Smith joins to discuss offseason plans for the Bucks, Cavaliers, & Kings, plus the future of Dillon Brooks. Also, notable notes from an NFL 5th-Year option deadline that brought us the most declined salaries ever.

Notable NFL Draft Picks, the Compensatory Process, & Steph Curry Legend

Mike Ginnitti discusses Steph Curry's historic Game 7, and his eye-popping financial future. Plus, the compensatory draft pick system is still a worthy process, but are there ways the NFL can be proactive in improving it? And, notable "Best Fit" NFL draft picks from the weekend that was.

Early Lamar Contract & 1st Round Draft Thoughts

Mike Ginnitti details notable storylines, positional decisions, & rookie financials from a strong NFL Draft 1st Round, including roster construction thoughts on the Texans & Falcons. Plus, Lamar Jackson's multi-year extension is finally here - but full details are not. Initial thoughts on the reported terms, and a "wishlist" for what the structure should look like.

Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Hurts, & the Top MLB Contract Per Franchise

Finally. Aaron Rodgers, the Green Bay Packers, & the New York Jets have agreed to terms on a trade that will send the 39-year-old to the AFC. But in doing so, Rodgers has signed a revised contract (1:00) that throws another loop into the the equation. Plus, analysis on the official Jalen Hurts contract numbers (18:30), and a look at each MLB team's highest total value contract (35:50) in history.

#1 Overall NFL Picks, QB Selection Trends, & Draft Pools

Mike Ginnitti details the NFL's pas few #1 overall picks with projections for what the 2023 rookie contracts will account for. Plus, QB Selection Trends, hold that thought on Draft Pools & an historic start to MLB Run Differentials.

Bumgarner, Oakland, & the All-Free Agent MLB Roster

Despite $34M remaining on his contract, Madison Bumgarner's tenure in Arizona is over, and apparently the Athletics time in Oakland is soon to follow suit. Plus, our All-Soon-to-be-Free-Agent MLB Roster, current award favorites, and future dives into the Blue Jays & Brewers.

The Jalen Hurts Contract & More Potential NFL Extensions

The Eagles made good on their promise, locking in QB Jalen Hurts to a 5 year, $255M extension this morning. We dive into the early reported numbers, how they compare across the league and an update on guarantee rankings among QBs. Plus, 9 other NFL players who should be in line for a new deal in the coming weeks.

6 NFL Offseason Questions

The Seahawks' (1:47) thought enough of Geno Smith's 2022 to offer him a multi-year extension. Where do they go from here? The Giants (11:32) limped into the postseason, but pushed themselves into the Divisional Round behind Daniel Jones, who will now earn $82M over the next two seasons. Was a 1-year tag for Jones the smarter move? Plus, Odell Beckham Jr.'s contract (17:46) means? Which Wide Receivers (24:00) could be moved in the coming weeks? How will the #3 overall pick (30:03) be handled? And Saquon Barkley's (39:50) franchise tag staring contest. 

NBA MVP Candidates, Payroll Efficiency, & Playoff Notables

Recapping Embiid, Jokic, & Giannis' regular seasons, top seed contention probabilities, & notable playoff storylines. Plus, did the Pay-to-Play trend hold up, is the Play-In round here to stay, why the NBA remains as healthy as ever.

DL Money, Scary MLB Deals, Opening Day Payrolls, & the Next NBA CBA

A surging market for interior defensive linemen (0:20), and a few of the NFL's best available free agents (11:39). Plus, notably scary MLB contracts heading into the 2023 season (18:10), a clearer look at Opening Day MLB payrolls (35:16), and a few greatest reported hits from the NBA's Next CBA (37:25). 

The 2023 MLB Season Preview

Payrolls versus Playoffs (1:10), Best & Worst of the Offseason (8:00), Division Favorites (20:50), Sleeper Contenders, Season Long Prop Bets (51:20), Opening Day Starting Pitchers (1:10:50), & plenty more.

Lamar's Trade Request & Notable NFL Adds & Subtractions

The Secret's Out. Lamar Jackson has been trying to get out of Baltimore for a month now. Will the Ravens comply? Plus, with the NFL League Year now two weeks deep, a dive into notable adds, subtractions & sound GM work across the league.

5 NBA Next Contracts & Mike Trout vs Shohei Ohtani

Keith Smith joins to detail 5 NBA players we should be focused on down the stretch as their next big payday looms. Plus, (36:40) Dan Soemann's thoughts on the 2023 Los Angeles Angels, the Year of Shohei Ohtani, and potential Mike Trout fallout going forward.

Top NFL Spenders, Inactive Teams, & Best Available Free Agents

Mike Ginnitti breaks down which NFL teams are spending coin this offseason thus far, and why a few teams (Baltimore, Buffalo, Jacksonville) are still sitting on their hands one week later. Plus, a deep dive into the best available players still remaining on the NFL big board.

Early NFL Offseason Numbers, Trades, Signings, &. MLB Franchise Valuations

Mike Ginnitti details a few early returns from the 2023 NFL Offseason, including notable numbers (16:10), trades (24:30) , signings (37:45) , & the Aaron Rodgers Leverage conversation (1:00). Plus, Scott Allen & Dan Soemann detail Sportico's latest MLB Franchise valuations (44:32).

Daniel Jones, Geno Smith, Derek Carr, Daron Payne, & Deshaun's Conversion

Mike Ginnitti breaks down a massive cap conversion to Deshaun Watson's contract (0:50), & breakdowns of now official deals for Daniel Jones (11:56), Geno Smith (17:11), Derek Carr (25:56), & Daron Payne (30:15)

Franchise Tagee Finanical Futures

Mike Ginnitti & Dan Soemann detail the tag status and financial futures of Lamar Jackson, Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, Tony Pollard, Evan Engram, & Daron Payne, including potential extension values and/or trade scenarios.

Cowboys Construction, Baltimore's Lamar Era, Contracts for Daniel Jones & Geno Smith

The Dallas Cowboys (1:55) are finding it difficult to stay competitive with Dak Prescott's contract in tow. Our dive into how they got here - both good and bad. Plus, putting a few facts & figures into the notion that the Baltimore Ravens (32:40) didn't do enough to give Lamar Jackson the ultimate opportunity in his 5-year run. And, logical contracts (50:10) for QBs Daniel Jones & Geno Smith.

Upcoming NFL Releases & Notable Extension Candidates

With Cap Casualty season in full force, a quick dive into ramifications for players already reported to be on their way out as team's maneuver to become cap compliant by March 15th. Plus, a run through notable contract extension candidates across the league this offseason.

Rams Dead Cash, A Defensive Free Agency, & Machado's Opt Out Prize

Les Snead isn't shying about paying good players to go away. He's primed to do it again with Bobby Wagner (and possibly Jalen Ramsey). Plus if you're a team looking for defensive help this spring, free agency is for you. And, Manny Machado's latest extension puts a ribbon on why MLB superstars should all bet on themselves.

NFL Tag Candidates & a Salary Cap 101 Primer

With the NFL tag window upon us a dive into a dozen or so players rumored to be in consideration, including the financial ramifications for each. Plus, understanding the Top 51 salary cap, restructures, dead cap, draft pools & more.

Philly Sports, MLB Rule Changes & Contenders with Hembo

ESPN's Paul Hembekides joins to discuss his beloved Philly sports losses, including what kind of sustainability the Eagles & Phillies may have going forward. Plus, are the usual MLB contenders trending that way again, and which Rule Changes are we most looking forward to this season.

What's Next for the Chiefs, Eagles, & Derek Carr?

Mike Ginnitti details the big offseason question marks for the Kansas City Chiefs (0:53) & Philadelphia Eagles (20:25), including how they can open up cap space, notable free agents, potential extensions, and roster bubble players. Plus, Derek Carr's (32:28) pending release from the Raiders means he'll hit the open market this week. What kind of contract can he expect to land this time around?

The NBA Trade Deadline & a Chiefs, Eagles Breakdown

Scott Allen joins to break down his favorite transactions from another wild NBA Trade deadline (31:05), including tax implications for certain teams, questions still to be answered, and of course - Kevin Durant in Phoenix. Plus, a Super Bowl Sunday primer, breaking down the current & future financials & free agents for the Chiefs and Eagles.

Kyrie's Trade & Value with Keith Smith, MLB Contract Extension Candidates

Keith Smith (4:18) breaks down the Kyrie Irving trade, including what it means for his next contract, Brooklyn's future, & Dallas' all-in mode. Plus, notable MLB players (29:20) who may be eyeing a contract extension in the coming weeks or month, their value, &. predictions for where it all ends up.

Spotrac's Market Value System & Top Projections, Kyrie Irving to Dallas

A quick dive into the calculation and thought process behind Spotrac's Market Value system (2:50), including what our numbers should represent, and what factors objectively drive the actual cost up or down in many cases. Plus, our top currently projected NFL players for 2023 (19:00), & detailing the Kyrie Irving trade to the Dallas Mavericks (29:20)

NFL Best Values, Brady Retires & Myles Turner's Unique Extension

Keith Smith (29:37) details a unique midseason, declining, restructured extension for Indiana Pacers big-man Myles Turner. Plus, Spotrac's Best Value NFL Roster (1:02) from the 2022 season, & the Financial History of Tom Brady (14:58).

The Mahomes Contract & Offseason Outlooks for the Bengals & Niners

Patrick Mahomes' contract remains a 1 of 1, but there are elements of it that should be strongly considered by the Cincinnati Bengals as they head toward the offseason of Joe Burrow's Extension. What the Burrow deal (15:06) & other offseason decisions may look like, plus, (37:50) what questions lie with the 49ers heading toward March?

The Super Bowl QB Cap Conversation

Mike Ginnitti & Scott Allen discuss the longstanding trending that exists for starting QBs in the Super Bowl, and their respective salary cap number for that season. How does 2022 stack up in this regard? Will rising QB contracts buck this trend? How should roster construction for contenders be conducted with these figures in mind?

Offseason Outlooks for the Bills, Cowboys, Giants, & Jaguars

Mike Ginnitti & Dan Soemann discuss team needs, salary cap projections, potential extension & cut candidates, & general thoughts for the Bills, Cowboys, Giants, & Jaguars this offseason.

A Potential 49ers Quarterback Conundrum

Offseason Questions for the Chargers, Dolphins, Ravens, Seahawks, & Vikings

Mike Ginnitti & Dan Soemann dive into what might be next financially speaking & from a roster construction standpoint for the Chargers, Dolphins, Ravens, Seahawks, & Vikings.

Chris Koras on the Rafael Devers Deal & Keith Smith's NBA Trade Primer

Chris Koras, CEO of Rep 1 Baseball, joins (28:15) to break down the facts, figures, timeline, & stories that culminated to a $313.5M extension for Boston Red Sox 3rd Baseman Rafael Devers. Plus, it's NBA Trade Deadline season and Keith Smith (1:54) has names, teams, & predictions.

NFC Playoff Team Analysis, the Packers/Rodgers Future Discussion, & Carlos Correa to the Twins

Mike Ginnitti details the past, present, & future storylines for each of the NFC playoff teams. Then, a roundtable discussion surrounding the financial & football futures for Aaron Rodgers & the Packers organization as a whole. Plus, Carlos Correa spurs the Mets for a $200M guarantee from the Minnesota Twins.

AFC Playoff Team Analysis & Best Available MLB Free Agents

Mike Ginnitti details the cash rankings, projected 2023 cap space, & storylines of past, present, & future for each of the 7 AFC Playoff teams. Plus, now two months deep, a look into the best available players yet to be signed in MLB free agency, including projected destinations for each.

Devers, Correa, Soccer Drama, & Running Back Analysis

Dan Soemann joins to discuss a new mega deal for Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers, and the current status of Carlos Correa's potential contract with the Mets. Plus, the Men's U.S. Soccer team is currently a reality show, and our NFL Offseason Financial Series continues with a dive into the Running Back position.

Spotrac's 2022 Year End Review

A roundtable discussion about the Top Earning Players, the Most Viewed Teams, and our Year End Awards highlighting a few favorite Extensions, Free Agent Contracts, Trades, & Financial Storylines from the 2022 that was.

The 2023 Quarterback Money Episode

Dan Soemann & Mike Ginnitti discuss the financial futures for a few notable quarterback controversies heading into 2023, including Geno Smith & the Seahawks, Daniel Jones & the Giants, & Baker Mayfield and the Rams. Plus, the way forward for Indy, Atlanta, Carolina, & plenty more.

More Mets Money & the NFL Pro Bowl Rosters Financially

Mike Ginnitti breaks down notable finances surrounding the 2022 NFL Pro Bowl rosters, including pending free agents, a few extra bonuses, & a huge showing from the highest paid players. Plus, are you old enough to remember Carlos Correa's tenure in San Francisco? Another Mets money bomb this offseason brings their 2023 finances up to $500M.

World Cup Money, MLB Updates, Anthony Davis' Injury, & Ovechkin's 800

Argentina (3:40) won a lot more than just a trophy in their thrilling World Cup defeat of France this weekend. Plus, Dansby Swanson (17:35)to the Cubs puts a dagger in MLB's major free agent contracts, but plenty of teams still have work to do. And, Anthony Davis' injury (43:30) slows a good run of Lakers basketball, while Alex Ovechkin (52:10) thankfully brings Wayne Gretzky's career numbers back into mainstream conversation.

More Long MLB Contracts, Best Available Free Agents, & NBA Franchise Valuations

Scott Allen discusses the latest NBA franchise valuations from Sportico, including a new #1 at the top of the list. Plus, Dan Soemann on another lengthy MLB contract for Carlos Correa, and the financial construct that brings superstar players and tax-conscious teams to settle for self-detonating deals.

The Money Mets, MLB's Tax Problem, & Re-Grading 2022 NFL Contracts

Mike Ginnitti assesses the early "hit-rate" for notable NFL contracts signed this past year, & what long-term effects could surface in light of them. Plus, the Mets are posting contract & tax payroll numbers never before seen in MLB. Where they project, how it compares, & why their spending isn't MLB's problem - and never has been.