Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Episode: Hour 3: Tables v Tiers Release Date: August 14, 2025

1. Introduction to Quarterback Rankings

In this episode, Don Hahn and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the nuances of quarterback rankings, specifically examining the concepts of "Tables" versus "Tiers." The discussion revolves around evaluating the top-performing quarterbacks in the NFL and analyzing the methodologies used by executives to rate them.

2. Top Tier Quarterbacks: Mahomes, Burrow, Allen, and Jackson

The conversation kicks off with a review of the first-tier quarterbacks. Don Hahn references their extensive Table 1, which includes elite players like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson.

Don Hahn [02:08]: "You had an extensive Table 1 with Mahomes, Burrow, Allen, Jackson, not Alan Jackson, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson."

Peter Rosenberg supports the inclusion of these quarterbacks, emphasizing their consistent performance and ability to win games single-handedly.

Peter Rosenberg [01:50]: "My logic for Hurts was I was giving him the benefit of the doubt of three great seasons and a Super Bowl MVP to boot. And with Jaden Daniels, I feel that he, like the other four, is the guy who basically by himself can win you football games."

3. Tier 2 and Beyond: Evaluating the Next Group of Quarterbacks

Don Hahn critiques the structure of Table 2, describing it as "thin" and likening it to a "cocktail."

Don Hahn [02:18]: "Your table two is very thin. It was almost like a cocktail."

The second tier includes quarterbacks like Jaden Daniels, Justin Herbert, and others who are perceived as capable but not quite at the elite level of the top tier. The discussion highlights discrepancies in rankings, particularly questioning Matthew Stafford's placement.

4. Matthew Stafford's Ranking Controversy

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Matthew Stafford's placement in the top tiers. Don Hahn expresses skepticism about Stafford being ranked fifth among NFL quarterbacks, especially given his stage in career.

Don Hahn [08:30]: "But you can make the argument that Hertz is getting up there and you can make the argument that Daniels is getting up there. I don't think at this point right now that you can say that there's anybody other than those four guys."

Peter Rosenberg acknowledges the executives' decision but remains critical of Stafford's current performance relative to his ranking.

Peter Rosenberg [12:10]: "No, he's not elite quarterback anymore. But I was just a little taken aback that he felt that way, that the league feels that way."

5. Impact on the Giants and Jets: Russell Wilson and Justin Fields

The discussion shifts to the Giants and Jets, focusing on their quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Don Hahn points out the paradox of high-tier quarterback rankings affecting team perceptions.

Don Hahn [06:32]: "The Jets and Giants are right. When they listed the most talented teams, weren't the Giants like 27 and the Jets 29? Now we're ranking the two starting quarterbacks."

Peter Rosenberg expresses surprise at the low rankings of these quarterbacks, considering their potential impact on their respective teams.

Peter Rosenberg [12:09]: "I'm surprised people are down."

6. Media Handling of Injury Reports

A substantial segment of the episode addresses frustrations with how the media reports (or fails to report) player injuries. The hosts argue that lack of transparency leads to unnecessary speculation and fan dissatisfaction.

Peter Rosenberg [32:08]: "I'm just asking, what's the health of the damn players are. I'm not going to get into injuries. Why? It's none of my business."

Don Hahn concurs, emphasizing the importance of clear communication from teams regarding player statuses.

Don Hahn [33:02]: "Know or you're not sure, you're not sure. I'm not going to hold it to him. It's health. It's very difficult to figure out."

7. Transition to Baseball: The 'Forever Met' Debate

Shifting gears, the hosts engage in a passionate debate about Mets legends, particularly focusing on David Wright and Ed Kranepool. The discussion centers on the criteria for being considered a "Forever Met" and the impact of injuries on a player's legacy.

Peter Rosenberg [46:25]: "David Wright was on his way to the hall of Fame... we were robbed of what could have been even better."

Don Hahn defends his earlier stance, clarifying that he did not forget David Wright in his evaluations.

Don Hahn [43:41]: "He fits the bill, right?"

The debate highlights the fine line between honoring a player's contribution and acknowledging the limitations imposed by factors like injuries.

8. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

As the episode winds down, the hosts reflect on the complexities of sports rankings, team dynamics, and fan expectations. They emphasize the importance of data-driven evaluations while recognizing the emotional investments fans have in their teams and players.

Peter Rosenberg [37:21]: "You're the media. You're trying to bring us down. And the fans eat that up."

Don Hahn [36:55]: "You got us by the short ones. I understand that."

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Rosenberg [01:50]: "These are why I put them where I put them."

• Don Hahn [08:45]: "But I really can't kill this list."

• Peter Rosenberg [12:10]: "No, he's not elite quarterback anymore."

• Peter Rosenberg [32:35]: "I just want to know what's going on with my star wide receiver."

• Peter Rosenberg [37:21]: "You got us by the short ones. I understand that."

Conclusion

In "Hour 3: Tables v Tiers," Don Hahn and Peter Rosenberg provide an insightful analysis of NFL quarterback rankings, critiquing executive evaluations and discussing the broader implications on teams like the Giants and Jets. Their candid conversation extends into the realm of baseball, debating the legacies of Mets icons. Throughout the episode, the hosts balance statistical analysis with fan-centric perspectives, offering a comprehensive look at the sports landscape.

Note: Advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content segments have been excluded to focus on the core discussions of the episode.