NFL Media produced a series of features branded “Soul and Science” in which former NFLer Trent Dilfer and “SportScience” creator John Brenkus will analyze top quarterbacks in the upcoming Draft. The idea is that Dilfer will analyze the “soul” -- that is, intangible factors that determine whether a QB will succeed -- and Brenkus will analyze the science -- the mechanics of what makes a good quarterback. Features will analyze prospects like Josh Rosen, Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen and Sam Darnold. Starting next week, segments will run in NFL Network shows “NFL Total Access” and “Good Morning Football” and on the NFL’s digital platforms (John Ourand, Staff Writer).
WILSON'S SPORTING GOODS: In L.A., Sam Farmer notes ESPN later this month will debut "QB2QB with Russell Wilson," the successor to the net's "Gruden's QB Camp" series. The Seahawks QB is "stepping into the ... void created when Jon Gruden left the network" to return to coaching and will be shown "mentoring four top prospects in advance of the NFL draft" -- Mayfield, Mason Rudolph, J.T. Barrett and Saquon Barkley. The shows were shot at UCLA's campus on a set that "looked like Wilson's living room, with a big L-shaped couch in front of a wall of windows overlooking the Bruins' practice fields." ESPN VP/Production and "MNF" producer Jay Rothman said that he "isn't trying to recreate" the Gruden show with Wilson. Farmer notes the fact Wilson is "currently in the league and will be competing against these players gives the show a unique wrinkle" (L.A. TIMES, 4/10).
