Join the hosts of Firebirds Weekly from IHOP in Clifton Park for the first-ever 2026 Nest Awards Show, celebrating the Albany Firebirds’ memorable regular season. With the Firebirds securing the No. 2 seed and preparing for the AF1 playoffs, the show honors the players who made an impact both on and off the field, including Offensive Player of the Year Darian Townsend, Defensive Player of the Year Drew Singleton, and standout midseason additions I.G. Hall and Morris Joseph Jr.

This week, we broadcast live from Cugino’s Pizzeria in Rensselaer with Albany Firebirds stars Ajai Hall and Lorenzo Jones Jr. Fresh off a 66-48 road victory over the Beaumont Renegades, the players discuss overcoming schedule changes, preparing for a pivotal matchup with Nashville, and the team’s “next game” mentality. They share what makes the Firebirds’ locker room special, the competitive practices that fuel success, and the support they’ve received from the Albany community and Flock Support.

Firebirds Weekly returns from Cugino's in Rensselaer with special guest Dontae Mason, defensive back for the undefeated Albany Firebirds. Dontae shares his football journey from growing up in Philadelphia and winning a city championship at Bishop McDevitt, to playing college football at Lock Haven and Delaware Valley, overcoming injuries, and finding his way back to the game through arena football. He discusses the mentors who shaped his career, the film-study habits that elevated his play, and the hard work that led to Defensive Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors. Dontae also talks about joining Albany’s dominant defense, adapting to the AF1 level, the team’s championship culture, and the passionate support from Firebirds fans as Albany prepares for another key matchup against the Michigan Arsenal.

This week’s episode comes live from Cugino’s Pizzeria in Rensselaer as the crew sits down with Albany Firebirds defensive lineman Kadir Shepard. Fresh off another dominant defensive performance, Shepard talks about the Firebirds’ undefeated start, the intensity of arena football, and what it’s like bringing SEC-level energy to MVP Arena. From quarterback pressures and locker room culture to adapting his game indoors, Shepard gives fans an inside look at the mindset behind Albany’s relentless defense.

Firebirds Weekly is back with Season 2, Episode 15, recorded live from IHOP in Clifton Park. This week’s guest is 2025 Offensive Player of the Year Dwayne “DB3” Brown. The crew dives into the team’s big road win in Oregon, discussing their second-half dominance, the challenges of long-distance travel, and what it takes to stay undefeated.

Dwayne shares insight on the Firebirds’ high-powered offense, the rapid rise of their rookie quarterback, and the team chemistry that fuels their success. He also reflects on his football journey—from backyard games in Pennsylvania to college stardom and the professional level—highlighting the lessons learned through injury, perseverance, and growth.

The episode also explores his passion for mentoring young athletes through training programs, the realities of chasing pro opportunities, and the mindset required to keep pushing forward. Plus, some fun rapid-fire questions to wrap things up.

All that and more as the Firebirds prepare for another big matchup and continue their winning streak.