Athletes First Family: Quarterback Series

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What happens in the room when billion-dollar NFL quarterback contracts are negotiated? Athletes First agents take you behind closed doors, sharing never-before-heard stories of record-breaking deals for Justin Herbert, Deshaun Watson, Dak Prescott and more. With $1.4 Billion in current QB contracts, these powerful agents reveal how relationships are built, negotiations unfold, and NFL history is made. Join VP AJ Stevens, CEO Brian Murphy and Athletes First’s team of super agents for unprecedented access to football's biggest deals.

Episodes

  1. 03/27/2025

    How Dak Prescott Became the Highest-Paid NFL Player | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-10

    Join us for Episode 10 of the Athletes First Family Podcast as we dive into how Dak Prescott became the highest-paid NFL player! This episode is packed with insights on leadership, teamwork, and resilience—essential lessons for athletes and professionals alike. We explore the power of a strong support system, effective communication, and trust-building in achieving success. Plus, we break down the importance of goal setting, mentorship, and learning from setbacks to reach the top. From overcoming challenges to navigating the future of work, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their game—on and off the field. #NFL #DakPrescott #Cowboys Learn More About Athletes First: https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork Timestamps:00:00:00 - Support System Matters – Why a strong support system is crucial for success. 00:02:30 - Recognizing Your Team – The power of appreciation in fostering collaboration. 00:05:00 - Episode 10 Reflections – Growth, leadership, and key lessons from the series. 00:08:00 - Overcoming Challenges – Personal stories and lessons from tough times. 00:11:00 - Leadership Styles – How different approaches impact team success. 00:14:00 - Power of Communication – Why clear communication drives better teamwork. 00:17:00 - Building Trust – Strategies to strengthen team relationships. 00:20:00 - Feedback for Growth – How giving and receiving feedback fuels success. 00:23:00 - Goal Setting – Tips for setting and achieving meaningful goals. 00:26:00 - Celebrating Wins – The importance of acknowledging progress. 00:29:00 - Learning from Failure – Turning setbacks into stepping stones. 00:32:00 - The Value of Mentorship – How mentors accelerate personal and career growth. 00:35:00 - Work-Life Balance – Finding harmony between work and personal life. 00:38:00 - Innovation & Creativity – Creating environments that spark new ideas. 00:41:00 - Networking for Success – How connections open new opportunities. 00:44:00 - Resilience Matters – Navigating tough times with strength. 00:47:00 - Diversity & Inclusion – Building stronger teams through inclusion. 00:50:00 - Personal Branding – How to craft a standout professional identity. 00:53:00 - Lifelong Learning – Staying ahead through continuous growth. 00:56:00 - Future of Work – Trends shaping the next generation of workplaces. 00:59:00 - Final Takeaways – Key lessons and encouragement to take action. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1h 1m

  2. 03/20/2025

    How Todd Became A Forbes List Top NFL Agent | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-9

    Join me, Brian Murphy, and AJ Stevens, as we welcome the legendary Todd France to the Athletes First Family Podcast! In this episode, we uncover Todd's incredible journey from his Chicago upbringing to becoming a Forbes-ranked super agent. Get ready for some unbelievable stories and insights! Todd has represented 83 Pro Bowlers, with multiple Pro Bowlers every year since 2011. He’s negotiated record-breaking contracts, making players like Aaron Donald and Dak Prescott the highest-paid offensive and defensive players simultaneously. He’s also achieved the highest-paid status for players at every position—except kicker, punter, and long snapper (but he’s working on it!). Since 2018, Todd has consistently ranked #1 or #2 on Forbes’ list of top sports agents. #nfl #dakprescott #aarondonald Learn More About Athletes First: https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Todd France 00:02:30 - Todd's Personality & Early Life 00:04:49 - Early Career Aspirations & Internship 00:07:45 - Career Sports Management & First Clients 00:11:40 - Creative Problem-Solving & Mental Health Awareness 00:15:27 - Breaking Into Football & Building a Roster 00:21:26 - Launching "Fame" & Early Success 00:29:53 - Selling Fame & The Sale Process 00:35:10 - Getting the Company Back & Joining CAA 00:41:56 - Joining Athletes First & Lessons Learned See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    58 min

  3. 03/13/2025

    Inside the Mind of an NFL Agent | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-8

    Join us as we welcome Andrew Kessler to his first Athletes First Family Podcast episode! Alongside David Mulugheta, we’re breaking down Jordan Love’s record-breaking contract and the unique journey that led to it. In this episode, we sit down with Andrew "Kess" Kessler and David Mulugheta, two of the agents behind Jordan Love’s historic deal. We dive into Kess’s background, his early exposure to sports law through his father, Jeffrey Kessler, and how he developed a passion for representing athletes. We also explore how Kess and David worked together to recruit and represent Jordan Love, navigating the challenges and strategies that shaped his contract negotiations. #nfl #nflpodcast #jordanlove    Learn More About Athletes First: https://athletesfirst.net    Follow Us On Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst    Subscribe To Our YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork Timestamps:  00:00:28 - Introduction to the Quarterback Series 00:02:22 - Kess’s background and career influences 00:07:16 - Interning at the NBA and working with Tony Parker 00:11:46 - Transitioning from law school to sports representation 00:16:30 - Recruiting and signing Jordan Love 00:25:15 - Jordan Love was drafted by the Packers 00:29:17 - Extending Jordan Love’s contract 00:35:19 - New contract negotiations begin 00:43:59 - Stats on Jordan Love’s record-breaking deal 00:46:03 - Lessons learned from Jordan Love’s story 00:51:16 - Closing remarks and thank   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    51 min

  4. 03/06/2025

    The Future of NFL Contracts | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-7

    In this episode of the Athletes First Family Podcast, Brian Murphy, along with A.J. Stevens, sit down with David Mulugheta to discuss the intricacies of Deshaun Watson’s groundbreaking contracts. As a firm that has negotiated over $1.4 billion in quarterback deals, we bring firsthand experience in navigating high-stakes negotiations. Today, we’re breaking down both of Deshaun’s deals and the unique circumstances that shaped them. Join us as we break down the challenges of negotiating with a head coach acting as a GM, the impact of the funding rule, and the key lessons we’ve learned along the way. From pushing boundaries to securing the best outcomes for our clients, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the business of sports. #deshaunwatson #nfl #sportspodcast Learn More About Athletes First: https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork Timestamps: 00:00:27 - Today's Focus: Deshaun Watson's Deals 00:01:49 - Setting the Scene: Deshaun's Early Career and Contract Talks 00:02:56 - Patrick Mahomes' Deal and Its Influence on Negotiations 00:04:10 - Aiming to Surpass Mahomes' First Four-Year Cash Flow 00:04:29 - Texans' 10-Year Extension Offer and Why It Was Rejected 00:06:08 - David's Negotiation Strategy and Deshaun’s Value to the Texans 00:07:24 - Dealing with Bill O'Brien and Team Leadership 00:09:36 - Securing the Deal: Making Deshaun the Highest-Paid Quarterback 00:10:12 - Deshaun's Community Impact and Leadership  00:12:30 - Unique Aspects of Negotiating with a Coach-GM 00:14:07 - Decision to Leave Houston and Requesting a Trade 00:16:41 - Narrowing Down Potential Teams and Deshaun’s Priorities 00:19:27 - Negotiating the Cleveland Deal and Maintaining Leverage 00:22:51 - Surpassing Mahomes' $45 Million Contract Value 00:25:10 - Browns’ Perspective: Acquiring a Proven Commodity 00:28:38 - The 100% Guaranteed Contract and Its NFL Impact 00:30:00 - Understanding the Funding Rule and Team Wealth 00:32:40 - Fully Guaranteed: Skill, Injury, and Cap Protections 00:34:52 - Lessons Learned: Negotiation, Adversity, and Pushing Boundaries 00:37:49 - Teasing the Next Episode: Jordan Love's Deal See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    38 min

  5. 02/20/2025

    How I Negotiated Over $1 Billion in Player Contracts In a Year! | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-6

    In this episode of the Athletes First Family Podcast, we sit down with David Mulugheta, the powerhouse agent behind NFL quarterbacks Deshaun Watson and Jordan Love. Joined by Brian Murphy and AJ Stevens, we explore David’s path from Dallas, Texas, to becoming one of the most influential agents in the game. David shares how family, resilience, and strategic career moves shaped his journey. Growing up with immigrant parents who prioritized education and hard work, he developed the mindset that would later propel him to success. From recognizing the importance of representing quarterbacks to negotiating record-breaking deals, David’s story is one of vision, self-belief, and determination. We also dive into representation and diversity, as David sheds light on the lack of African American agents in the quarterback space and his commitment to changing that narrative. Hear how he signed Deshaun Watson after a national championship win, the career-defining moments that followed, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Join us for an inspiring conversation that breaks down what it takes to become a top sports agent, the power of betting on yourself, and the future of athlete representation. #nfl #nflpodcast #deshaunwatson    Learn More About Athletes First:https://athletesfirst.net   Follow Us On Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst   Subscribe To Our YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    35 min

  6. 02/13/2025

    The Secret To Negotiating Record-Breaking Contracts | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-5

    In this episode of the Athletes First Family Podcast, we dive into an inspiring conversation between Brian Murphy, CEO of Athletes First, and Ryan Williams, a leading NFL agent. This discussion reveals the critical role of relationships, the journey from intern to super agent, and the innovative marketing strategies that set Athletes First apart in the competitive sports agency landscape. From Ryan’s humble beginnings at UCLA, where he washed uniforms and built relationships that paved the way for his career, to securing groundbreaking marketing deals, we explore the perseverance and strategy behind his rise to success. Hear the inside story of how the Campbell’s Soup deal for John Lynch came to life and how a last-minute decision on Clay Matthews’ draft day shirt turned into a viral branding opportunity. With a focus on trust, creativity, and execution, this episode breaks down key concepts like the Most Favored Nations Clause and what it truly means to be a super agent. Join us as we uncover the strategies that have helped Athletes First dominate the industry and redefine athlete representation at the highest level. #nfl #sportspodcast #podcast  Learn More About Athletes First: https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    44 min

  7. 02/06/2025

    What It Takes to Be a Franchise Quarterback | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-4

    In this episode of the Athletes First Family Podcast, we dive into the intricate world of NFL contract negotiations, breaking down the strategy behind Justin Herbert’s historic $262.5 million extension with the Los Angeles Chargers. Join us as we uncover the key factors that shaped this groundbreaking contract and the cooperative approach that helped close the deal. From the client-first strategy that prioritized Herbert’s long-term security to the in-depth education process on contract structures and market trends, we explore the meticulous planning behind one of the biggest deals in NFL history. With a record-setting $100 million in new money in the first new year and $218.7 million guaranteed, this negotiation redefined the market. With a focus on collaboration, trust, and strategic execution, learn how Athletes First continues to push the boundaries of athlete representation at the highest level. Learn More About Athletes First:https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork   Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction to Justin Herbert's Contract Negotiation00:01:16 - Overview of Record-Breaking Deals00:03:49 - Initial Meeting with Justin Herbert's Family00:07:24 - First Impressions of Justin Herbert00:09:54 - Draft Surprise and Initial Reactions00:12:13 - Justin's Rookie Season and Early Expectations00:14:35 - Negotiating Justin's Contract After Year Three00:19:07 - Educating Justin on Contract Details00:21:35 - Salary Cap Growth and Market Timing00:24:18 - Team's Funding Rules and Negotiation Strategies00:27:06 - Overview of Justin Herbert's Contract Deal00:29:39 - Importance of Cash Flow in Contracts00:33:16 - Guarantees in Justin's Contract00:36:11 - Lessons Learned from the Negotiation Process00:38:40 - Congratulations on the Deal and Career00:39:11 - Closing Remarks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    39 min

  8. 01/30/2025

    What It Takes to Build a Successful Sports Agency from Scratch | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-3

    What does it take to become the leading football agency in the NFL? In this episode of the Athletes First Family Podcast, we dive into the story of Athletes First—from its humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse representing the league’s top players.  Join CEO Brian Murphy, VP AJ Stevens, and equity partner Justin Schulman as they reveal the secrets behind groundbreaking deals, innovative negotiation strategies, and the teamwork that drives their success. From Justin Schulman’s inspiring journey from the NBA to Athletes First to the creative contract adjustment for Nick Foles after his Super Bowl win, we explore the unique skill sets and bold strategies that have set Athletes First apart. With adaptability, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to players’ success, learn how the agency continues to redefine what’s possible in the sports world.  #nfl #quarterback #podcast Learn More About Athletes First: https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork Timestamps:  00:00:00 - Welcome to the Athletes First Family Podcast 00:00:16 - Purpose of the Podcast and Agency Overview 00:00:44 - Introduction of Justin Schulman 00:03:09 - Justin’s Journey: From NBA to Business School 00:05:25 - How Justin Joined Athletes First 00:09:12 - Early Challenges and Growth at Athletes First 00:12:32 - Developing Athlete Training Programs 00:15:50 - Evolution of the Company Culture and Structure 00:18:13 - The “Better Together” Philosophy 00:19:29 - Unique Relationship Between Co-Founders 00:21:08 - Transition to Agent Role and First Big Client 00:25:54 - Success with Mid-Round Draft Picks and Quarterback Clients 00:28:05 - Nick Foles’ Journey and Career Challenges 00:32:19 - Nick’s Super Bowl MVP and Innovative Contract Adjustments 00:36:14 - Nick’s Return to Lincoln Financial and Legacy 00:37:37 - Reflecting on Lessons from Victories in Sports 00:39:24 - Building a Successful Company with Hardworking Partners 00:41:08 - Purpose of the Podcast and Preview of Next Episode See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    42 min

  9. 01/23/2025

    The Iconic Quarterback Contracts That Helped Launch The Agency | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-2

    What’s the real story behind the NFL’s most game-changing quarterback contracts? In this episode of the Athletes First Family Podcast, we uncover the journey of building a billion-dollar agency, the challenges of starting from scratch, and the record-breaking deals that define NFL history. From Drew Bledsoe’s groundbreaking contract to Justin Herbert’s $100M first-year cash flow, we explore the evolution of quarterback salaries and the personal values that drive Athletes First. Join CEO Brian Murphy, VP AJ Stevens, and the team as they reflect on loyalty, family values, and the pivotal decisions that shaped their legacy. With $1.4 billion in active QB contracts, discover how persistence, relationships, and moral pillars create success on and off the field. #nfl #quarterbacks #sportsbusiness Learn More About Athletes First:https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork Timestamps 00:00:35 - Discussion on Landmark Quarterback Deals and Their Evolution 00:02:01 - Transition from SMD to Starting Athletes First 00:04:01 - Initial Panic Over Client Engagement 00:05:00 - The Search for Initial Funding and Investment Challenges 00:06:43 - The Struggles of Building a Client Base from Scratch 00:07:14 - Drew Bledsoe's Contract as the First Major Deal 00:09:40 - Dak Prescott's Contract Comparison 00:09:58 - Rise of Veteran NFL Player Salaries 00:10:36 - Justin Herbert's First-Year Cash Flow 00:12:59 - Tom Brady's Rise to Starting Quarterback 00:17:43 - Joey Harrington's Impact on the Agency 00:18:35 - Introduction to David Carr and the Draft 00:21:40 - Reflection on Passing Up the Number One Pick 00:24:25 - Carson Palmer Becomes Highest-Paid Quarterback 00:27:54 - Overview of Negotiation Strategies 00:28:27 - Importance of Persistence in Deal-Making 00:30:01 - Lessons Learned from Early Days of Athletes First 00:31:38 - The Role of Family Values in Sports See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    34 min

  10. 01/16/2025

    Inside The NFL’s Largest Sports Agency | Athletes First Family Podcast Ep-1

    What happens in the room when billion-dollar NFL quarterback contracts are negotiated? Athletes First agents take you behind closed doors, sharing never-before-heard stories of record-breaking deals for Justin Herbert, Deshaun Watson, Dak Prescott and more. With $1.4 Billion in current QB contracts, these powerful agents reveal how relationships are built, negotiations unfold, and NFL history is made. Join VP AJ Stevens, CEO Brian Murphy and Athletes First’s team of super agents for unprecedented access to football’s biggest deals. #nfl #dakprescott #football Learn More About Athletes First:https://athletesfirst.net Follow Us On Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/athletesfirst Subscribe To Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AthletesFirstNetwork Show Notes:00:00:00 - Welcome to the Athletes First Family Podcast00:00:29 - Overview of Athletes First Journey00:01:34 - Record-Breaker: $2.9 Billion in Player Contracts00:02:12 - Highlight of Top Quarterback Deals00:05:20 - Reflection on 2024 Success and Client Stories00:09:11 - Personal Background and Future Podcast Topics00:10:50 - Founders of Athletes First and First Client00:12:50 - First Interaction Between Brian and AJ00:15:56 - Recruitment of Tom Brady to Tampa Bay00:20:21 - Acknowledging Todd's Vision and AJ's Impact00:24:48 - Introduction to the Quarterback Series00:27:08 - Upcoming Topics and Questions for the Podcast00:29:11 - Exploring Complexities of NFL Contracts00:30:26 - Personal Growth Through Uncomfortable Situations00:32:59 - Preview of Next Episode and Company Origins See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    34 min

  11. 01/09/2025

    Introducing: Athletes First Family: Quarterback Series

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1 min

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What happens in the room when billion-dollar NFL quarterback contracts are negotiated? Athletes First agents take you behind closed doors, sharing never-before-heard stories of record-breaking deals for Justin Herbert, Deshaun Watson, Dak Prescott and more. With $1.4 Billion in current QB contracts, these powerful agents reveal how relationships are built, negotiations unfold, and NFL history is made. Join VP AJ Stevens, CEO Brian Murphy and Athletes First’s team of super agents for unprecedented access to football's biggest deals.

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  • Years Active
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  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
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    Athletes First Family: Quarterback Series