In today’s episode of Longshore and McKnight, ole’ John and Barry explored the escalating NIL arms race, highlighting a Houston Chronicle report that Texas is spending between $35 and $40 million on its football roster—roughly double what Alabama and Auburn are believed to invest combined. The hosts questioned how SEC programs can keep pace and warned that schools like Troy and others in the Group of Five may eventually get left behind.

Former Vanderbilt receiver CJ Duncan joined to discuss the implications of the transfer portal, player compensation, and concerns over long-term sustainability. Duncan noted that while Texas has unmatched resources, many schools lack the infrastructure to compete, reinforcing the need for federal oversight and spending limits.

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The episode also touched on Alabama players attending high-profile events like the Talladega race and Flora-Bama’s Mullet Toss, raising questions about appearance fees and endorsement culture.

The hosts previewed NFL rookie minicamps and weighed in on quarterbacks like Jalen Milroe and Shedeur Sanders, with Duncan arguing that Sanders was undervalued in the draft.

The show closed with commentary on Nick Saban’s surprise appearance alongside Donald Trump at Alabama’s upcoming commencement, speculating on the political and public reaction to the pairing.