Brock Purdy’s rising trajectory and best game as a pro, the 49ers’ big-picture performance and standout plays, Kyle Shanahan’s coaching and team strengths/concerns, defense breakdown including Dee Winters’ pick-6 and pass rush evaluation, Buy/Sell discussion of real Super Bowl contenders, next week’s preview vs. the Bears, and off-field/leadership notes covering Brandon Aiyuk’s speeding incident and DK Metcalf’s suspension with league-wide discipline implications.

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In this episode, Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks break down the latest NFL and college football headlines. They discuss the 49ers’ biggest questions, including Fred Warner’s return timeline, life without Dre Greenlaw, and what needs to be fixed after the bye. Around the league, they cover the Eagles’ struggles, the Browns’ decision with Shedeur Sanders, and whether the Seahawks are the team to beat in the NFC. On the college side, Notre Dame’s bowl opt-out and early coaching departures are analyzed, and the crew reacts to Odell Beckham Jr.’s “$100 million isn’t enough” comments.

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The 49ers grind out another gritty win while Dak Prescott’s MVP case keeps heating up. The Jaguars make a real AFC statement, and the Browns’ defense falls apart in London. Another weekend full of blowouts leaves everyone wondering what’s killing the competition and which teams are actually built for adversity.

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This week on The Grit Code Podcast, we break down AJ Brown’s cryptic tweet that’s stirring drama off the field, Fred Warner’s record-breaking forced fumble mastery, and Deebo Samuel’s growing impact for the 49ers. We also discuss the Ravens’ collapse amid a wave of injuries and what all these storylines mean for the NFL playoff race. Tune in for the latest insights and bold takes.

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Cowboys spiral with Trevon Diggs’ costly mistakes, 49ers fight on without Nick Bosa, and Ravens wrestle with Derrick Henry fumbling issues. Fred Warner & Dee Winters dominate, while the Eagles show unstoppable late-game resilience.

Real NFL analysis, locker room stories, and hard-hitting defensive breakdowns.
👉 Subscribe for new episodes every week!

#NFL #49ers #Cowboys #Ravens #Eagles

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We also dive into: 

• Why the Miami Dolphins are struggling to win under head coach Mike McDaniel 

• Fred Warner looking like the best linebacker in the NFL right now 

• What it really feels like inside the locker room for 0-2 teams vs. 2-0 teams If you’re looking for NFL analysis, locker room stories, and real football talk, this episode is for you. 

👉 Subscribe for new NFL podcast episodes every week!

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Welcome to the first episode of The Grit Code—where the stories get real and the lessons get practical. Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks crack open the truth about NFL training camp: the adrenaline, the anxiety, the cut-down day call, and the mental scars that can follow you long after the pads come off. 

What you’ll hear:

• The intensity shift from OTAs → camp → preseason → Week 1 
• The “make the team” mind games & how vets really handle it 
• Harbaugh-era practice stories, walk-throughs that weren’t walk-throughs 
• The empty-locker-room moment: identity, finances, and what’s next 
• Free Game: tools to manage stress, protect focus, and build an identity that doesn’t crack under pressure

 

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The 49ers are heating up at the perfect time. Health is returning, turnovers are finally landing, and Kyle Shanahan’s creativity is back. We break down the defensive surge, CMC’s control of the offense, and the energy Jauan Jennings brings every week. Special teams delivered a game-changing spark against Cleveland, and the NFC race is suddenly wide open with the Eagles slowing, the Lions wobbling, and the Rams fading.

We also hit the key takeaways from the Cleveland win, the 49ers’ bye-week priorities, and a quick look around the league, from Stafford’s regression to the Jeudy–Shedeur argument and Aaron Rodgers stirring more locker-room drama.

The path to the NFC’s No. 1 seed is alive.

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This week on The Grit Code Podcast, Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks break down a chaotic NFL week. The 49ers earn a tough win over the Panthers, even with Brock Purdy tossing three picks, while CMC shines and the defense delivers its best game of the season. Shedeur Sanders debuts for the Browns, facing the challenges of mental reps, accountability, and proving himself under pressure. We also cover Brandon Aiyuk’s situation, strategies to slow Myles Garrett, and break down AFC and NFC contenders and pretenders.

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This week on The Grit Code Podcast, Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks break down a wild week in the NFL. Brock Purdy makes a triumphant return, restoring rhythm and confidence to the 49ers’ offense and setting the standard for the season. Shedeur Sanders faces his first NFL reality check, navigating the challenges of mental reps, accountability, and life off the field. And in league drama, Ja’Marr Chase sparks controversy after spitting on Jalen Ramsey, raising questions about player conduct. Tune in for hot takes, insights, and this week’s Grit Code Challenge.

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On this episode, we talk financial reality for athletes and Sebastian Telfair’s story, the 49ers’ meltdown including QB controversy and defensive breakdowns, and NFL hot topics like Sauce Gardner, Jonathan Taylor, and Lamar Jackson. Hosts Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks break it all down.

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Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks break down the 49ers dealing with key injuries, Christian McCaffrey’s dominance, midseason MVP talk, and Jayden Daniels’ injury, sharing their insight on what it takes to stay resilient in the NFL.

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Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks dive deep into the 49ers’ defensive struggles and what accountability really looks like inside an NFL locker room. The crew also touches on the growing chaos around gambling in sports — from discipline to leadership, and how the culture’s shifting across the leagues.

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The crew kicks off with the USA Today article and what it means for player empowerment and life after football. From there, they break down how the 49ers rediscovered their identity, who stepped up in Fred Warner’s absence, and how leadership shows up in adversity. Then it’s on to Dak Prescott’s MVP-level play and whether this version of the Cowboys can finally sustain greatness.

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Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks break down a wild week across the NFL, from post-game fights to locker room tension.

The crew reacts to Brian Branch vs. JuJu Smith-Schuster, the 49ers’ collapse in Tampa Bay, and what Fred Warner’s injury means for San Francisco’s defense.

In Locker Room Energy, the guys debate Tua calling out teammates, is that real leadership or frustration boiling over?

Plus, the Jets’ late-game meltdown, Rico Dowdle’s message to the Cowboys, and why accountability is becoming the theme around the league.

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We dive into the film to break down what went wrong on both sides of the ball, from missed opportunities and communication breakdowns to questionable schematic decisions. The guys evaluate Brock Purdy’s performance, the play-calling, and the key moments where the offense lost momentum. Then it’s a full preview of the Eagles matchup, including Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Vic Fangio’s defense, and the revenge factor from last season. The episode wraps with Wild Card picks around the league and Pat’s thoughts on offseason recovery, mental reset, and getting ready for the year ahead.

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On this episode of The Grit Code Podcast, Donte Whitner, Patrick Willis, and Rod Brooks break down the 49ers’ huge win over the Bears, led by Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey. From offensive fireworks to unsung heroes, they highlight the plays that mattered most. Plus, the NFL playoff and division races are heating up, they preview the final week matchups: 49ers vs Seahawks, Steelers vs Ravens, and Panthers vs Bucs, and discuss who has the best shot to punch their playoff ticket.

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Pat, Donte & Rod are joined by the uniquely original, former Cornerback for the 49ers, Tarell Brown. They dive deep into his childhood, high school, college and NFL careers and the most incredible life after football. Creating two foundations and working in real estate. Tarell is a true testament to Grit. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jam Packed edition of The Grit Code Podcast. Donte, Pat and Rod breakdown the boring or exciting (depends how you look at it) Super Bowl victory of the Seattle Seahawks on the 49ers home turf. They talk Bad Bunny's performance as well. Donte has some big questions for the boys. Is Mike Macdonald better than Kyle Shanahan now that he has won the big game? Who are the top five Position dominant coaches in the NFL? What do the 49ers need to do to get on this level? Switching gears to off season - Maxx Crosby has expressed that he does not want to return to the Raiders. Should the 49ers go after this big name talent and what should they be expected to give? Lastly, joining the show is Donte and Pat's teammate, Kyle Williams. Kyle has a fascinating story, including his father being a major player and exec in the MLB. What drew him to football? Then, once in the league, Kyle had one of the worst games of his life when it mattered most. How did he get over it? What work has he done since? Kyle talks all about an incredible organization, NESTRE Performance, who lead the charge on mental and cognitive strength training and solutions company, that leverages neuroscience and AI/Machine Learning technology to personalize how people get better, feel better, perform better. For more information go to: https://nestreperformance.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donte and Rod break down the latest in 49ers land. Raheem Morris is the new DC. Who likes it? Who might not? There has been a plethora of coaching hires. The fellas play a game of Dude or Dud with each one. Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch - their contracts are up soon. How soon should they lock that up? Free Agency Chatter. And, of course, finishing the episode with Donte and Rod's Picks for The Seahawks and Patriots Super Bowl. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donte and Rod are joined by one of the best safeties in 49ers history, Dashon Goldson. They dive into his origin story first, specifically his mindset and when he realized he was good enough to play the game of football at the highest level. The fellas dive into those draft day feelings and those early years when D Gold was running with the 3rd and 4th string folks. Then, how things changed once he got the call that he would be starting. Donte and Dashon reminisce on the defense during 2011-2013 when the were in NFC Championships and the 2013 Super Bowl. Finally, the guys dive into what needs to change for the 49ers going forward and of course, some early Super Bowl Predictions, and maybe, just maybe a jab or two at a certain Seattle Seahawk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The 49ers season has come to a brutal end. Donte, Rod and Pat dive deep into what both sides of the ball failed to execute in that game and who holds responsibility? Specifically in key early plays. With this being the end of an injury plagued season and change on the horizon, what has to keep the 49ers healthy, especially at peak positions like those occupied by George Kittle, Nick Bosa, Fred Warner and more. The conversation shifts to Robert Saleh’s departure to the Titans. Was this a positive decision for him? And where does the organization look to go with their defense next? Finally, the guys make their picks for Conference Championship weekend. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Grit Code Podcast recaps the 49ers’ playoff win over the Eagles, breaking down how the Niners executed under pressure and closed the game in enemy territory. We preview the critical matchup against the Seahawks and finish with around the league picks as the playoff picture continues to take shape.

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The fellas are joined by the one and only Justin "Cowboy Smith as they continue to check in with their teammates from that world beating defense. Cowboy grew up on a farm and talks about his grit that he worked at time and again. He remarks on his time in Cincinnati and then the best years of his career in San Francisco with Donte, Pat and the guys. The guys talk about his skill set and just how dominant he was. They finish the episode by diving into the work his son is doing on the High School Football field. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donte, Pat and Rod dive into addressing some needs through Free Agency this off season. Should they go after an uber talented vet like Mike Evans or Tyreek Hill coming off of a gnarly injury? Can their current guys get the job done on both sides of the ball? Then, favorite from the playing days, Chris Culliver joins to talk all things about his upbringing, his NFL experience and growth and mental health after the game. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rod and Donte speak on the tragedy of Aldon Smith's passing. Donte spoke to some former teammates and has some words to share on that subject and what Aldon's legacy should be as a 49er. They also talk about what is going on with men in sports and some hopes for the 49ers defensive line. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rod and Donte are at it again, breaking down the latest Brandon Aiyuk drama and the fatigue we all feel. What's next in this saga/ the rest of his career? They also dive into the Ashtyn Davis signing. Just a solid back up or true safety room competition? And the fellas do an off season "What's more likely". Topics: George Kittle games played Christian Mccaffrey total yards Defense Ranking and more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are a lot of pieces on the defensive side of the ball for the 49ers that need attention. Where should they look for that first round draft pick? Safety? Defensive Line? Maybe depth at linebacker? There are so many possibilities: Caleb Downs CJ Parker Caleb Banks Rueben Bain Jr. Just to name a few. Also, Dexter Lawrence is asking for a trade out of New York. Should the 49ers throw their hat in the ring? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rod and Pat lead the charge on interviewing the singular Donte Whitner. He shares his story and it is truly the stuff of legends. From an injury at an incredibly young age and being told he could NEVER play sports, to an extremely challenging childhood, and thanks to his gut, grit, his mother, and Ted Ginn Sr., he made is way to THE Ohio State University and eventually the NFL. They dive into great detail with it all in only the way Donte can. And then, they finish with current 49ers topics: Brandon Aiyuk, free safety issues and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rod and Donte dive into the mind and heart of co-host Patrick Willis as he walks us through his life leading through the NFL to the Hall Of Fame. What he overcame as a child living in poverty and the lessons he learned and took from his family, friends and coaches throughout. Patrick is a testament to grit, kindness, tenacity, and being an absolute BEAST on the field. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When you think "linebacker" you think NaVorro Bowman. Donte, Pat and Silverback dive into his childhood, college days, and those incredible years with the 49ers. They talk the challenges he faced in college at Penn State aka linebacker U. And how it shaped him to be the teammate and player he was in the NFL. They, of course talk some iconic plays, most notably the PICK AT THE STICK. Then, the guys talk some current 49ers pick ups - Dre Greenlaw being back, trading for Osa and league wide, diving in a little bit to the Chiefs acquiring Justin Fields. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's that time of year when everything is on the table. Donte, Pat and Rod talk all things Mike Evans, Trent Williams, Dre Greenlaw, Raiders, Titans, Pittsburgh, and so much more. The league is heating up and so are the fellas. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

All Hell has broken loose. The Rams have traded for the best defensive player in the league, Myles Garrett! With the Seahawks already ahead of the 49ers after last years showing what does this mean for the 49ers, the NFC West and the league at large? Also - The Patriots have traded for AJ Brown! What does this mean for the Eagles and can the Patriots continue being contenders? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donte and Rod discuss the truth of the 49ers offense. Are they still a dominant offense. Brock Purdy coming off of his contract year, will he still have a chip on his shoulder? McCaffrey a year older, Evans a year older, Trent coming back, Pearsall coming back. A lot of unknowns. Donte outlines how Evans' metrics have DROPPED OFF A CLIFF. Hitner and Rod keep it real as they always do. They believe...but how much?? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hitner is in Fiji and he's got the same ole hot takes. He and Rod break down the 49ers 2026-2027 schedule. Highlighting specific games including a Jauan Jennings revenge game, telling folks to never doubt Patrick Mahomes again and so much more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you don't know, now you know. Donte had a call with Ji'Ayir Brown trying to get Donte to stop talking about his play. Well, Ji"Ayir, we recommend you watch the episode. It's not smack talk, it's honest assessment and will make your game better. You listen to Hitner, you will get better. He and Rod dive into the full safety room, breakout candidates and more this episode. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donte and Rod dive deep into what most fans call the boring part of the calendar, but inside the building THIS IS EVERYTHING. Where the foundation is built. The guys discuss the young wide receivers and how best to utilize them with the elder statesman. Kyle Shanahan addressed the draft. Why? What does it mean for the team going forward? Then the main event - Cornerbacks! How can they strengthen this young secondary and what does each player need to do to improve. They finish out by talking about the offensive line issues. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donte and Rod are joined by the one and only Justin "Cowboy" Smith to break down the very polarizing 49ers 2026 NFL Draft. Whether it was taking Stribling in the 2nd or running back (yet again) Kaelon Black in the 3rd round, were these the right decisions? Justin gives expertise on the later round defensive line picks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The draft is TOMORROW and Donte, Pat and Rod go through the first 4 rounds of potential picks for the 49ers. They also address the glaring needs on defense that John Lynch says are not really there? Was this a classic smoke screen? Or does he really believe it? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donte, Rod and Pat dive into all things offensive draft. What is the glaring need on offense for them? In a word - SPEED! They talk wide receiver, running back, line and more. They also discuss how they believe Christian Mccaffrey should approach his future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.