In this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, host Juan Singleton sits down with former NFL player and coach James Saxon for an in-depth conversation that blends football insight with real-life perspective.
The discussion kicks off with a breakdown of the growing buzz around flag football—from exhibition matchups with NFL players to the debate over its Olympic future—and why it’s a completely different game than traditional football. From there, Saxon shares expert insight on the NFL Draft, evaluating talent, and what truly separates good players from great ones at the professional level.
The conversation goes deeper into the realities of the game—playing through injuries, understanding when a player becomes a liability, and the importance of communication between athletes, coaches, and training staff. Saxon also gives a rare look inside the mindset of coaching, explaining how to develop players with different skill sets, why football IQ matters, and how preparation and adaptability shape success on the field.
Beyond X’s and O’s, this episode explores generational differences in athletes, the evolution of the game, and Saxon’s core philosophy: great players always want to be coached.
Whether you’re a football fan, coach, or someone who appreciates leadership and development at the highest level, this episode delivers insight, experience, and perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.