E18: 2026 Market Predictions with Patrick Linnell

Record-high calf prices, tighter herds, and strong consumer demand—what’s next for U.S. beef? Patrick Linnell, Director of Market Research at CattleFax, breaks it all down. In this episode of The Future of Beef Show, Patrick joins Jim Johnson, Dr. Jessica Sperber, and Ian Wheal to explore the trends shaping the cattle market today and tomorrow. From herd rebuilding and carcass weights to international trade and the role of AI in market research, Patrick gives producers and feeders the insights they need to make informed decisions. What You’ll Learn: • Why beef demand remains strong despite record prices • What’s slowing herd expansion and how it affects the cattle cycle • How carcass weights, feeding strategies, and genetics impact profitability • The influence of packing capacity and Mexican cattle imports on markets • How international trade supports U.S. beef supply • Ways AI is changing—but not replacing—market research Links: Future of Beef Show: www.futureofbeef.com Connect with Patrick Linnell & CattleFax: www.cattlefax.com Read more from Drovers: www.drovers.com Learn more about Breedr: www.breedr.co Learn more about Corteva Agriscience: www.rangeandpasture.com