In this episode of The Next Conversation, host Preston Jackson speaks with NFL agent Shawn O’Gorman about his journey from a promising football career to the world of sports management. O’Gorman shares insights on the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals on college athletes, the importance of character in player evaluations, and the intricacies of NFL draft preparations. He emphasizes the need for agents to build strong relationships with players and teams, and discusses how marketing strategies can enhance a player’s marketability. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of college sports and the challenges faced by athletes considering their futures in the NFL. In this conversation, Shawn O’Gorman and Preston Jackson delve into the intricacies of the NFL draft process, focusing on the evaluation of junior players, the significance of the Senior Bowl, and the impact of NIL opportunities on player branding. They discuss the importance of vetting marketing deals and the timeline for draft preparation, emphasizing the need for athletes to understand their roles as employees of football teams. The conversation highlights the complexities of the business side of football and the relationships that drive success in the industry.
Chapters
00:00 Podcast Rebranding and Introduction
02:55 Shawn O’Gorman’s Journey to Sports Management
06:03 Transitioning from Business to Sports Agency
09:05 The Role of NIL in College Sports
12:02 Building Character and Marketability in Players
14:55 Navigating NFL Draft Preparations
18:11 The Importance of Character in Player Evaluations
21:03 Understanding Underclassmen Draft Grades
24:04 The Impact of NIL on Draft Decisions
35:35 Evaluating Junior Players in the Draft Process
40:13 The Importance of the Senior Bowl
45:02 Navigating NIL Opportunities
51:01 Vetting Marketing Deals for Athletes
55:11 Understanding the NFL Draft Preparation Timeline
01:03:27 The Reality of NFL Draft Decisions
