The Grit Code Podcast
Former NFL All-Pro Donte Whitner and Hall of Famer Patrick Willis host The Grit Code Podcast, where they explore what it takes to overcome setbacks, stay disciplined, and build greatness. Each week, they have raw conversations with athletes, entertainers, entrepreneurs, and culture shifters who share their scars, lessons, and triumphs. The show covers locker room stories, NFL moments, financial literacy, personal growth, and cultural commentary. Segments include Free Game, Quote/Lyric Breakdowns, and the Grit Code Challenge of the Week.
Episodes
50 | Herbert SHREDS 9ers Secondary | Ji’Ayir Brown a true liability? | Grit Code Podcast | Grit Code Podcast
After the 49ers preseason game and joint practice against the Chargers, Rod and Donte have A LOT of thoughts and questions.
Herbert shredded this 49ers secondary, are they in trouble?
Our best friend Ji’Ayir Brown gets truck sticked by Omarion Hampton. How big of a liability is this dude, truly, without bias. Well...maybe some bias.
What's up with the pass rush - Renardo Green vs. Jack Jones
49 | Bosa's Knee/Evans' Quad | Stribling Hype | First Pre Season Game! | Grit Code Podcast
Rod And Donte dive into the headlines of the week.
Nick Bosa's knee, problem or precaution?
Mike Evans' quad? What do these injuries actually mean?
Stribling is balling out at camp. What do we need to see to know this is for real?
Can Brock Purdy be the engine of this offense???
And, what do the fellas need to see in the first preseason game against the Titans?
All this and more! Hoste
48 | The 49ers Injury Problem YET AGAIN | DEEBO'S BACK! | Grit Code Podcast
Rod and Donte get into 10 hot topics for the 49ers today.
INJURIES, INJURIES AND MORE INJURIES!
Pearsall out for the season. Kittle still recovering.Evans, Black, Stribling, and more dealing with issues. This is no longer BAD LUCK. Do you look at the substation again and do a deep investigation?
Why the cover up for the Kyle Shanahan accident? Glad he's okay, but is something else going on??
47 | 49ers 2026 Championship Pressure | The Hidden Cost Of The NFL Lifestyle
Donte and Rod get it goin with discussion of current 49ers topics.
Deebo - Should the 9ers bring him back? Can he be effective? Is he washed?
Stribling -Is he ready? Should he be a focal point of the offense out the gate?
Will the injuries be the biggest worry or will it be the Seahawks or the Rams?
Then, the REAL section - the fellas talk the entourage tax, locker room competition and more.
46 | The Portal Has Ruined College Sports! | 3 Big 49ers Questions | Grit Code Podcast
Rod and Donte take a deep dive into the mess that is NIL and the transfer portal. They dive into how it does not set up players for success in the real world.
They also get into some stories of the old ways that Donte was able to take advantage of.
They finish off with 3 big questions for the 49ers as they go into camp. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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45 | Adios Aiyuk! | 49ers # 1 Offense?!? | Attack On The Low Level Millionaire | Grit Code Podcast
Rod and Donte dive into the nitty gritty of how women, friends, advisors attack the low level millionaire - aka the African American Football Player.
Women sliding into dms. Posting BBL pics. The players have lust in their eyes and are too young to realize what is happening.
They also get into what might be the final straw in the Brandon Aiyuk drama. His mental health and his future discussed.
44 | Aiyuk At It Again! | Are 49ers True Contenders? | Family, Money & Boundaries | The Grit Code Podcast
Rod and Donte are back at it and guess what? So is Brandon Aiyuk. He might owe the 49ers anywhere from 13-18 mill and the fellas have a lot to say about it.
Then the meat and potatoes. The real spill from Donte and Rod behind the curtain of a continued edition of Whitner Wallet.
Finishing off with some real talk about how good the 49ers actually could be. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz comp
43 | George Kittle's Tight End University Route Running | Hitner's Player Money and Lifestyle Advice | Grit Code Podcast
A packed episode of zingers and advice.
First off, Rod and Donte dive into the Kittle running routes and doing drills at his Tight End University - IS THIS A GOOD IDEA? What should the 49ers do about this?
Then we get into the real life stuff. Donte and Rod talk about the constant money issues of players current and former as well as lifestyle decisions - drugs, alcohol and more.
A really th
42 | The Legacy Of Aldon Smith | Grit Code Podcast
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
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41 | More Aiyuk Drama | Offseason What's More Likely? | Grit Code Podcast
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
40 | Myles Garrett Is A RAM! | Are The 49ers Screwed?!? | Grit Code Podcast
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 Simple
39 | 49ers Offensive Deep Dive! Are They Still Elite?? | The Grit Code Podcast
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 beli
38 | 49ers Schedule Release Breakdown! | Grit Code Podcast
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
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37 | The 49ers SAFETY ISSUES | Grit Code Podcast
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 Simpleca
36 | Dog Days Of May - Evaluating 49ers Starting Cornerbacks! | Grit Code Podcast
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 strength
35 | 49ers 2026 Draft - Sneaky? or A Bust? | Grit Code Podcast
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
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34 | FINAL 49ERS MOCK DRAFT! | John Lynch Press Conference | Grit Code Podcast
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
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NFL DRAFT: 49ERS OFFENSIVE NEEDS! | The Future Of Christian Mccaffrey | Grit Code Podcast
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
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Ep. 32 | DRAFT NEEDS: DEFENSE | Grit Code Podcast
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 th
Ep. 31 | Whitner's Wild One Of A Kind Story | Grit Code Podcast
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
Ep. 30 | Patrick Willis: From The Mud To The Hall Of Fame | Grit Code Podcast
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 Ad
Ep. 29 | NaVorro Silverback Bowman Talks Legacy And Current 49ers | Grit Code Podcast
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 gu
Ep. 28 | NFL Free Agency Frenzy! | Grit Code Podcast
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
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Ep. 27 | Should Be A First Ballot Hall Of Famer! w/ Justin "Cowboy Smith | Grit Code Podcast
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
Ep. 26 | 49ers Free Agency Primer! | Special Guest Chris Culliver | Grit Code Podcast
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 men
Ep. 25 | This Game Is Not For Everyone w/ Tarell Brown | Grit Code Podcast
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
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Ep. 24: Mike Macdonald Is The Best Coach In The NFL! | Kyle Williams On Overcoming Adversity | Grit Code Podcast
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 co
Super Bowl Picks! | Raheem Morris New DC | Dude/Dud? Coaching Hires | Grit Code Podcast
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
What The 2013 D Had That The Current 49ers D Does Not w/ Dashon Goldson | Grit Code Podcast
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
49ers Get Embarrassed, Saleh To Titans & Conference Championship Picks | The Grit Code Podcast
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 War
49ers Silence Philly, Seahawks Showdown Ahead & This Week’s Picks | The Grit Code Podcast
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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collectio
49ers in Trouble? Seahawks Loss Breakdown, Eagles Preview & Wild Card Picks | The Grit Code Podcast
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
49ers Win Big with Brock & CMC, Final Week Division Titles at Stake | The Grit Code Podcast
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,
Purdy Shines, the Niners Look Legit, and Buy/Sell Who’s a Real Contender — The Grit Code Podcast
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 a
Rushing Back, Regretting Moves, and the NFC Plot Twist | The Grit Code Podcast
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 t
49ers Rising, Eagles Falling, Rodgers Stirring the Pot, The NFC Just Got Interesting
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,
49ers Win, Shedeur Sanders’ Browns Debut, and NFL Contenders or Pretenders | The Grit Code Podcast
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
Purdy Rises, Shedeur Has a Reality Check, and Ja’Marr Chase SPITS on Ramsey - The Grit Code Podcast
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 dr
The 49ers Fallout & The Financial Reality of Athletes | The Grit Code Podcast
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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collecti
49ers Injuries, CMC Shines, Midseason MVP & Jayden Daniels Injury | The Grit Code Podcast
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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
49ers Fallout & NBA Gambling Chaos: Accountability Ain’t for Everybody | The Grit Code Podcast
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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about ou
Fighting the System, 49ers’ Grit & Dak’s Dominance | The Grit Code Podcast
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. Hosted by Simplec
Week 6 Mayhem: Fred Warner Done, Brian Branch Sparks a Brawl, and Tua Calls Out Teammates
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 ov
NFL Week Breakdown: Dak’s Dominance, Browns’ Breakdown, and Jags’ Statement Win | The Grit Code Podcast
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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our
AJ Brown’s Cryptic Chaos, Ravens in Freefall, and Fred Warner’s Rise to Power
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. Hosted by Simple
NFL Week 3 Fallout: 49ers Grit Tested, Cowboys Implode, and Ravens’ Big Problem
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 Hosted by Simp
Chiefs Panic Button, QB Injuries, and 49ers Defense
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 wee
Training Camp PTSD
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 “m
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