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Mike Sando

@sandonfl.bsky.social

37K followers 345 following 232 posts

27th season covering NFL. The Athletic + HOF selector, PFWA board, AP Awards Voter, QB Tiers, Pick Six column. Alum: ESPN, TNT, S-R, Football GM Podcast .

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Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Six straight games of negative EPA. Seven turnovers in three games. But the most interesting part of Drake Maye’s slump may be what happened to another young QB who hit a wall in Year 3: Ben Roethlisberger. There’s a surprisingly relevant history lesson here. www.nytimes.com/athletic/763...

The Patriots have a Drake Maye problem. What’s wrong, and what’s fixable? Pick Six

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

#rams & #packers current HCs: 169-97-1 (.634) They have also had 10 special teams coaches‼️ Both had MVP QB seasons derailed by ST blunders So I spent this offseason finding out why 👇👇👇👇👇 www.nytimes.com/athletic/757...

The Rams are historic Super Bowl favorites, but have they fixed their fatal flaw? (Gift Article)

Special teams woes might have cost the Rams a Super Bowl, a plight the Packers know all too well. Sean McVay vows to fix the problem.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Every year at this time I check in with #NFL executives for a preseason expectations snapshot Full story: www.nytimes.com/athletic/755... #Bears got a No. 1 vote in NFC, which runs today Tomorrow: AFC

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

Interesting potential comp for recent Mahomes: 1980s Joe Montana, who was one-and-done in playoffs 3 years in a row, and beat up Then won next two MVPs and Super Bowls High bar for anyone to clear but voters feel Mahomes will be just fine

Reposted by Mike Sando

The Athletic @theathletic.com · 04/08/2026

Our 2026 NFL Quarterback Tiers results are here. The panel this year consisted of 21 execs and 29 coaches overall. Each voter placed 35 veteran QBs into five tiers, from best (Tier 1) to worst (Tier 5). nyti.ms/4yYcfln

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

2026 QB Tiers drops Tuesday 8/4 *50 coaches/execs weigh in on the one position everyone watches See how high Caleb Williams, Drake Maye & Bo Nix climb See how Tier 1 has changed 🤔 Gonna be a fun rest of the week!

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 27/05/2026

Favorite offseason moves for all 32 #NFL teams No sub needed www.nytimes.com/athletic/730...

My favorite offseason move by every NFL team: Bengals swing big, Chiefs add juice (Gift Article)

The Bengals, Broncos and Rams made win-now trades, and the Chiefs added a much-needed boost to their run game.

Reposted by Mike Sando

Erik J Maassen @erikjmaassen.bsky.social · 01/05/2026

Love your unfiltered articles after the draft & appreciate you getting insight from scouts/GMs opinions. More interested in their thoughts after the draft when lying season is pretty much over, hopefully getting a truer sense of what they really think. Keep up the amazing work!

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 01/05/2026

Did #Bills make wise use of all those picks (10) after trading down? Was #Browns' draft as good as the analysts suggested? Do the #Texans care what anyone thinks? Does anyone have anything good to say about #Jaguars GM? Is it OK to feel good about #Jets? www.nytimes.com/athletic/724...

Execs unfiltered on NFL Draft for every AFC team: Are things looking up for Jets, Raiders?

Is it really OK to feel good about the Jets? Meanwhile, reviews were mixed on the Bills', Jaguars' and Texans' draft classes.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 30/04/2026

Today we run through all 16 NFC teams' drafts with thoughts from #NFL insiders ... including range of opinions on #Rams, #Giants, #49ers and more www.nytimes.com/athletic/724...

Execs unfiltered on every NFC team's draft: Did the Rams get it right with Ty Simpson?

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 13/03/2026

Yeah, a really top talent who seemed to have a hard time conforming within the system as it was set up then.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 12/03/2026

Was the Maxx Crosby trade simply a fallback in case the #Ravens could not sign Trey Hendrickson? That and much more in this analysis with @jourdanrodrigue.bsky.social www.nytimes.com/athletic/711...

The Maxx Crosby trade fiasco, the Ravens’ motivations and how the NFL world reacted

Agents, executives and coaches have been buzzing about circumstances of and the fallout from a blockbuster trade that wasn't.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

Also in Pick Six: #patriots were outlier among outliers this season What does it mean for future?

Reposted by Mike Sando

Kevin Fishbain @kfishbain.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

In his Super Bowl “Pick Six”, @sandonfl.bsky.social on John Schneider setting himself apart, HOF voting, Patriots comps, awards season, Sonny Jurgensen and so much more

Seahawks’ title underscores how to win in the modern NFL. There’s no going back: Pick Six

Great QBs have ruled the NFL for decades, but increasingly, even they are living in a league driven by the active, opportunistic GM.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

What do the last two Super Bowl winners have in common? Final Pick Six column of the season marks #seahawks SB win by tracing evolution of the modern GM Schneider & Roseman out front 👇👇👇 www.nytimes.com/athletic/699...

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 07/02/2026

My annual pre-Super Bowl column asking #NFL coaches to pick the winner. Every one picked #seahawks to win, but they also saw paths for #patriots to pull the upset. www.nytimes.com/athletic/702...

NFL coaches pick the Super Bowl: Seahawks clear favorite, but Patriots have paths to victory

Five coaches broke down the matchup, and while all favored the Seahawks, they also see how the Patriots could pull the upset.

Reposted by Mike Sando

Kevin Fishbain @kfishbain.bsky.social · 04/02/2026

"Breaking In with Kevin Fishbain" episode 44 Guest: @sandonfl.bsky.social Learn how Sando got his start in sports media, and we go through some of the stories he wrote at his first Super Bowl, 27 years ago. Sponsor: www.playbyplaycamps.com

Episode 44: Mike Sando, senior NFL writer at The Athletic

YouTube video by Breaking In With Kevin Fishbain

Reposted by Mike Sando

Kevin Fishbain @kfishbain.bsky.social · 05/02/2026

How do you find a unique story at an event covered like the Super Bowl? Great advice from @sandonfl.bsky.social

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 06/02/2026

Nice recovery with that 2026 HOF class: •Brees = #2 all-time pass yds •Fitzgerald = #2 all-time receiving yds •Vinatieri = #1 all-time scoring leader •Kuechly = DPOY, 5x All-Pro •Craig = one-of-a-kind RB Yes, Belichick should have gotten in. Short of that, this is good recovery.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 03/02/2026

Was working on this before we knew Belichick missed www.nytimes.com/athletic/vid...

Why is it harder than ever to become a Hall of Famer?

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 03/02/2026

This conversation picked up momentum as we went So much #NFL stuff going on from hiring to Super Bowl to HOF and more vimeo.com/1161289844

Jim Rome Show - Mike Sando - 2/2/26

This is "Jim Rome Show - Mike Sando - 2/2/26" by Sammy Steinlight on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

Reposted by Mike Sando

Darin Gantt @daringantt.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

@sandonfl.bsky.social is, as usual, thorough and well-spoken. It's a complicated process, and far less personal than many would like to believe. The Hall asks that we not disclose our ballots, though I'd be happy to provide mine.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 29/01/2026

Lots of opinions on Bill Belichick reportedly missing the HOF on first year of eligibility. My fears over the new (since 2025) voting mechanics have come to life. www.nytimes.com/athletic/vid...

Why Bill Belichick might have been snubbed: HOF voting process explained

Senior NFL writer Mike Sando, who is on the Pro Football Hall of Fame selection committee, explains why Bill Belichick probably got snubbed.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 20/01/2026

Pick Six column leads with #bills, also contrasts #ravens from other teams looking for coaches. Big gap! www.nytimes.com/athletic/697...

Bills fallout, the real officiating issue and more divisional-playoff madness: Pick Six

Bills coach Sean McDermott was fired Monday, two days after an officiating controversy involving Buffalo underscored a decades-old issue.

Reposted by Mike Sando

The Athletic @theathletic.com · 19/01/2026

Sean McDermott leaned into the officiating angle after the Buffalo Bills' loss in the divisional round. But when your superstar QB is responsible for four turnovers, officiating makes for a more inviting topic, writes @sandonfl.bsky.social. McDermott has now been relieved of his duties.

Reposted by Mike Sando

Kevin Fishbain @kfishbain.bsky.social · 19/01/2026

A defensive coach to @sandonfl.bsky.social on Caleb to Cole: "This is like Aaron Rodgers in his prime. Patrick Mahomes. It is really hard to throw that ball 7 yards deep in the end zone over someone's head that is standing 2 yards in front of the guy. Miraculous." Sando's weekly Pick Six

Bills fallout, the real officiating issue and more divisional-playoff madness: Pick Six

Bills coach Sean McDermott was fired Monday, two days after an officiating controversy involving Buffalo underscored a decades-old issue.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 12/01/2026

How culpable was Matt LaFleur for the #packers blowing a 15-point lead and losing at Chicago? Pick Six column does not pile on, but does not go easy either--put together a point and counterpoint focusing on a strange 4-minute drive featuring bombs away www.nytimes.com/athletic/696...

Matt LaFleur’s culpability for Packers’ collapse, and more from wild-card weekend: Pick Six

Another debacle finish in Chicago has put the spotlight on LaFleur's future in Green Bay, with the final year of his contract looming.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 06/01/2026

When is it time to move on from a long-tenured Super Bowl winning head coach? #ravens asked that question regarding John Harbaugh and decided it was now Recent video reveals what the data says 👇👇👇 www.nytimes.com/athletic/vid...

When should an NFL team part with its long-time coach?

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 05/01/2026

“This is a great year for a wild-card team. You win one game in the AFC, you have a chance.” No offense, Denver or any other team. You’ve all got a shot, especially in the AFC (well, maybe not you, Pittsburgh). Pick Six column is live www.nytimes.com/athletic/692...

Seahawks the Super Bowl favorite? Who wins wide-open AFC playoff race? Pick Six

The stage is set for the most unpredictable playoffs in years, especially in the AFC. Coaches and execs helped us break down the field.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 02/01/2026

When is it time to move on from a long-tenured Super Bowl-winning head coach? #seahawks made that move a couple years ago. #steelers & #ravens make for interesting case studies entering their Week 18 loser-out game More here 👇👇👇 www.nytimes.com/athletic/vid...

When should an NFL team part with its long-time coach?

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 29/12/2025

What do Luca Doncic and Lamar Jackson have in common? Pick Six column asks that question and many more Also: MVP comp between Drake Maye and Matthew Stafford www.nytimes.com/athletic/690...

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 15/12/2025

Especially proud to weave Philip Rivers, Steve DeBerg and a Hooters halftime show into one item www.nytimes.com/athletic/688...

A Chiefs dynasty on pause, and the inspirational Philip Rivers: Pick Six

Patrick Mahomes' injury extinguished the Chiefs' final hope (and raised major questions), while Rivers gave Indy slim hope, even in defeat.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 15/12/2025

#chiefs are one of four true dynasties of Super Bowl era … and are at crossroads with Mahomes hurt. Can high draft choice save them? Also in Pick Six: Philip Rivers!! www.nytimes.com/athletic/688...

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 12/12/2025

The "scramble" for #NFL MVP will not include Matthew Stafford. He's the betting favorite anyway. Are his Hall of Fame chances at stake? Lots to consider! #rams www.nytimes.com/athletic/687...

Who will win NFL MVP? History says Drake Maye, but Matthew Stafford could break the mold

Maye has better numbers in most areas, but Stafford's play style could put him over the top for an award that could help shape his legacy.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

Jam-packed Pick Six column runs through a (nearly) post-Chiefs AFC, plus much more! www.nytimes.com/athletic/686...

With the Chiefs on the ropes, the AFC is upside down. Who will win it? — Pick Six

The Chiefs' odds to win the AFC are down to 1 percent, leaving the conference wide open like it hasn't been in nearly two decades.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 01/12/2025

Also in Pick Six ... #raiders lose by 17 or more for fifth time this season ... have already fired two coordinators

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 01/12/2025

Pick Six column leads with the 9-3 #bears ... who are on a roll Some good signs! www.nytimes.com/athletic/683...

Ben Johnson’s Bears sit atop the NFC. How good are they? How high can they climb? — Pick Six

Reposted by Mike Sando

Kevin Fishbain @kfishbain.bsky.social · 01/12/2025

A former head coach to @sandonfl.bsky.social on Ben Johnson's post-game celebration: "It’s perfect for them because they are high energy right now, and they are believing.” Great insight from Sando on the Bears to lead "Pick Six"

Ben Johnson’s Bears sit atop the NFC. How good are they? How high can they climb? — Pick Six

Chicago is the current No. 1 seed in the NFC and at 9-3 has surpassed its preseason Vegas win total with five games to play.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 26/11/2025

Not on the plays where he’s holding the ball a super long time. Which is plenty.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 26/11/2025

Caleb Williams is holding the ball even longer than last season. His sack rate has plummeted. OL upgrades can’t explain it. What gives? www.nytimes.com/athletic/683...

Video: Caleb Williams is playing unlike any NFL QB. It's working, but is it sustainable?

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

Also in PIck Six: Josh Allen is the most betrayed QB in the league right now Full column... www.nytimes.com/athletic/681...

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

These perceptions will linger until...

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

Jam-packed Pick Six column live for Week 11 and leading with #seahawks vs #rams www.nytimes.com/athletic/681...

The Rams exposed Sam Darnold (again). Will he sink the Seahawks? — Sando's Pick Six

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 13/11/2025

My run thru all 32 #NFL quarterback situations required getting creative with some categories. Such as, "Our opponents hope we stay the course" www.nytimes.com/athletic/679...

QB future for all 32 NFL teams: Daniel Jones, Tua Tagovailoa among intriguing decisions ahead

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 10/11/2025

Speaking of Super Bowl chances from the NFC...

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 10/11/2025

Jam-packed Pick Six column today as we re-stack the NFC with #rams now projected with best Super Bowl chance -- but must play #seahawks this week www.nytimes.com/athletic/678...

Re-stacking NFC contenders: Are Rams, Seahawks more dangerous than Eagles? — Pick Six

"I'm trusting Seattle and the Rams both over Philadelphia," an exec said, as the Rams and Seahawks sit atop the NFC at 7-2.

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 07/11/2025

Always fun catching up with Colin Cowhered. Today we figured out the entire #NFL in one short segment (😉). youtu.be/kOr5EeeG_LE?...

Raiders-Broncos REACTION: Denver's Bo Nix PROBLEM, Geno STRUGGLES | THE HERD NFL w/ Colin Cowherd

YouTube video by The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Mike Sando @sandonfl.bsky.social · 06/11/2025

In-season #NFL trades are way, way up ... How much does it matter? www.youtube.com/watch?v=impc...

Reposted by Mike Sando

Kevin Fishbain @kfishbain.bsky.social · 03/11/2025

In "Pick Six," @sandonfl.bsky.social puts the Bears' offensive performance into perspective

The Bears’ late TD produced the team’s best offensive game in 45 years

Yes, the Bengals have allowed 500 yards three times this season, but the Bears gained the most of any of Cincinnati's opponents.

Reposted by Mike Sando

The Athletic @theathletic.com · 03/11/2025

@sandonfl.bsky.social's full Pick Six menu: ◽️ Re-stacking AFC contenders ◽️ Will Tucker Kraft’s injury doom Pack? ◽️ Key J.J. McCarthy takeaway ◽️ Record kick only part of story ◽️ Bob Trumpy’s critical call ◽️ Two-minute drill: Bears’ 576 www.nytimes.com/athletic/677...

Re-stacking AFC contenders: Bills, Chiefs still favorites? Who else is dangerous? — Pick Six

What was once a three-team race between the Bills, Chiefs and Ravens is now complicated, with several upstarts jumping into the mix.