The Bobby Bones Show – "Lots to Say: Cutdown Week and Fmr NFL RB Steven Jackson"

Date: August 27, 2025
Host: Bobby Bones
Co-Host: Matt Cassel
Special Guest: Stephen Jackson (former NFL running back)

Episode Overview

This episode centers on the excitement leading into the NFL season, the stress of cutdown week for players, quarterback and contract drama across the league, and an in-depth interview with former NFL running back Stephen Jackson. Jackson reflects on his career, advocacy for NFL legends, Hall of Fame discussions, and the changing landscape of the running back position. The show mixes personal stories, playful banter, and a fun game segment on NFL rushing leaders.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Excitement and Uncertainty of Preseason & Cutdown Week

Bobby and Matt express excitement as both college and NFL football seasons approach. Matt reflects on what it's like as a player during this time—everyone feels hope, even on struggling teams.
Matt Castle [03:45]: "There's great players on every team. It's whether or not you come together as a team and you gel… You don't know how good or bad you are at the beginning of any season."
Matt recounts his experience with the 2010 Kansas City Chiefs, who exceeded expectations after rebuilding.

2. Quarterback Moves and Locker Room Dynamics ([05:43–10:26])

Discussion of shakeups: Kenny Pickett being traded to the Raiders, Cleveland’s quarterback logjam, and the circus that surrounds high-profile backup QBs like Shedeur Sanders.
Matt Castle [06:54]: "I don't think their intent was ever to keep four quarterbacks... Eventually they were either going to cut Picket or trade him."
The group discusses the media pressure and distractions for teams with polarizing backup QBs.

3. Contract Negotiations and Holdouts ([11:09–13:57])

Highlights recent big-name signings: Trey Hendrickson (Bengals), Terry McLaurin (Washington), and ongoing cases like Micah Parsons (Cowboys).
Discussion on the modern trade request as a negotiation tactic.
Bobby Bones [12:08]: "I start to trust trade demands less and less now because you're seeing people demand trades… really it was just a negotiating tactic."

4. Bobby’s Search for a Favorite NFL Team ([13:57–18:28])

Bobby describes never having a hometown team growing up in Arkansas, and his current process of picking one to root for.
He narrows it down between the Panthers (Carolina) and Broncos (Denver), seeking input from Matt.
Bobby Bones [18:12]: "Next week I'll probably let you know… I'm going to be die hard for a whole year. We'll see how they treat me and see if I want to stay."

5. The Reality and Stress of Cutdown Week for Players ([18:28–23:19])

Matt relives the anxiety of roster cuts: waiting by the phone, seeing teammates leave, and the reality of football job security.
The segment expands into personal stories of contract negotiations in both football (Matt) and entertainment (Bobby), discussing the discomfort of holding out for better pay.
Matt Castle [23:08]: "That's also when you start to learn you've got to remove yourself from the situation; let them do their job because they know better than you do."

6. Interview: Stephen Jackson – NFL Legend ([30:52–55:20])

Stephen Jackson’s Mission to Lift Up Forgotten Legends ([31:09–33:07])

Jackson discusses his YouTube show "Legends," which shines a light on overlooked greats from NFL history like Sterling Sharpe, Darren Woodson, and Warrick Dunn.
Stephen Jackson [31:09]: "As we transition from the playing days to retirement... we still feel like we're in the locker room together… Let's reintroduce them to the new generation."

Self-Advocacy and the Hall of Fame ([32:17–33:07])

Jackson explains why he dislikes campaigning for himself, lamenting the lost support after the Rams relocated from St. Louis to LA.
Stephen Jackson [32:17]: "...when the Rams picked up and moved... the beat writers... I will lose their voice and maybe their even their vote..."

Running Back Inspiration and Style ([34:23–35:18])

Modeled himself after Walter Payton, Bo Jackson, Ricky Williams, Marshall Faulk (his teammate), among others, blending power and finesse.

Choosing Oregon State and Early Career ([35:19–36:42])

Details how recruiting led him from Las Vegas to Oregon State, opting for a college that truly wanted him at RB.

Impact of Marshall Faulk and the Old School Locker Room ([36:53–38:06])

Faulk’s mentorship was ‘indirect’—he answered questions but didn’t coddle.
Stephen Jackson [36:55]: "He didn’t treat me as a project, but he also treated me like a man..."

Tone-Setting and Physicality at Running Back ([38:06–39:02])

Stresses the importance of setting a physical tone early in games to warn opponents and fire up the team.

The Devaluation of the Running Back – And Why It’s a Myth ([39:02–41:19])

Jackson recalls his "Save the Running Back" campaign, explaining why elite RBs can never be replaced by "just anyone."
Explains significance of the role in playoffs and for young QBs.

Fantasy Football Fame and Losing Seasons ([41:19–42:17])

Even during 3–13 or 1–15 seasons, Stephen was still adored by fantasy players for his stats.

Injury Prevention and Longevity ([50:06–51:24])

Shares the meticulous off-field recovery regimen that helped him play 12 seasons: ice bath, hyperbaric chamber, abstaining from gluten, strict attention to rest and training.

Reflections on the Rams’ Move ([51:24–52:10])

Feels “like going back to your hometown and your house is torn down”—disconnected, but proud.

Memorable Moments ([52:11–53:34])

Favorite is a determined multi-tackle TD run in Seattle—emblematic of his career’s grit.

Should He Be in the Hall of Fame? ([54:00–54:23])

Leaves the case to his “resume” and humility, but clearly believes he deserves enshrinement.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Matt Castle [30:02]: "He's 6'2", 240, agile, athletic, would run through your face, make you miss… But no—he'd come out of the backfield, catch the ball gracefully…"
Stephen Jackson [38:16]: "It's a tone setter... not only are you setting the tone for the defense, but you're getting your team on alert to say, hey, now we're playing for real."
Bobby Bones [54:23]: "He’s so humble, he won’t even shine on himself. Like, I’m begging him to shine."

Important Timestamps

| Time | Topic/Segment | |---------|-------------------------------------------------------| | 02:41 | Season’s start – optimism, rebuilding teams | | 05:43 | Quarterback carousel: Pickett Trade; Browns QBs | | 11:09 | Big contracts: Hendrickson, McLaurin, holdouts | | 13:57 | Bobby chooses his NFL team | | 18:28 | Cutdown week, player anxiety, and contracts | | 30:52 | Stephen Jackson interview starts | | 31:09 | NFL Legends show and advocacy | | 38:16 | Running backs: Setting the tone, role devaluation | | 41:34 | Fantasy football years | | 47:36 | Surpassing Eric Dickerson’s record | | 52:25 | Most memorable moment: tough run in Seattle | | 54:00 | Hall of Fame self-reflection | | 59:05 | Top 10 All-Time NFL Rushing Leaders Game |

Fun & Lighter Segments

NFL Rushing Leaders Quiz ([59:05–69:55])

Bobby, Matt, and Stephen play a name-the-top-10-all-time NFL rushing leaders game—lots of banter, guesses, and football trivia history.
Notable players named: Emmitt Smith, Walter Payton, Frank Gore, Barry Sanders, Eric Dickerson, Jerome Bettis, LaDainian Tomlinson, Curtis Martin, Tony Dorsett.

Tone & Style

Lighthearted and humorous, punctuated by genuine admiration for football history and the current state of the NFL. The show moves swiftly, balancing serious insights on the business and psychology of football with inside jokes, friendly ribbing, and moments of humility—especially in the Stephen Jackson interview.

For Listeners Who Missed the Show

You’ll get inside access to both the emotional highs of preseason hope and the realities of NFL life—contracts, cuts, the politics of high-profile backup QBs, and how legends like Stephen Jackson see their careers in retrospect. The stories are authentic, the banter is lively, and the football knowledge is deep. Whether you’re a fantasy player, a nostalgic fan, or an NFL nerd, this episode covers it all.

Listen to "The Bobby Bones Show" for your daily fix, wherever you get your podcasts.

The Bobby Bones Show – "Lots to Say: Cutdown Week and Fmr NFL RB Steven Jackson"

Date: August 27, 2025
Host: Bobby Bones
Co-Host: Matt Cassel
Special Guest: Stephen Jackson (former NFL running back)

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Excitement and Uncertainty of Preseason & Cutdown Week

Bobby and Matt express excitement as both college and NFL football seasons approach. Matt reflects on what it's like as a player during this time—everyone feels hope, even on struggling teams.
Matt Castle [03:45]: "There's great players on every team. It's whether or not you come together as a team and you gel… You don't know how good or bad you are at the beginning of any season."
Matt recounts his experience with the 2010 Kansas City Chiefs, who exceeded expectations after rebuilding.

2. Quarterback Moves and Locker Room Dynamics ([05:43–10:26])

Discussion of shakeups: Kenny Pickett being traded to the Raiders, Cleveland’s quarterback logjam, and the circus that surrounds high-profile backup QBs like Shedeur Sanders.
Matt Castle [06:54]: "I don't think their intent was ever to keep four quarterbacks... Eventually they were either going to cut Picket or trade him."
The group discusses the media pressure and distractions for teams with polarizing backup QBs.

3. Contract Negotiations and Holdouts ([11:09–13:57])

Highlights recent big-name signings: Trey Hendrickson (Bengals), Terry McLaurin (Washington), and ongoing cases like Micah Parsons (Cowboys).
Discussion on the modern trade request as a negotiation tactic.
Bobby Bones [12:08]: "I start to trust trade demands less and less now because you're seeing people demand trades… really it was just a negotiating tactic."

4. Bobby’s Search for a Favorite NFL Team ([13:57–18:28])

Bobby describes never having a hometown team growing up in Arkansas, and his current process of picking one to root for.
He narrows it down between the Panthers (Carolina) and Broncos (Denver), seeking input from Matt.
Bobby Bones [18:12]: "Next week I'll probably let you know… I'm going to be die hard for a whole year. We'll see how they treat me and see if I want to stay."

5. The Reality and Stress of Cutdown Week for Players ([18:28–23:19])

Matt relives the anxiety of roster cuts: waiting by the phone, seeing teammates leave, and the reality of football job security.
The segment expands into personal stories of contract negotiations in both football (Matt) and entertainment (Bobby), discussing the discomfort of holding out for better pay.
Matt Castle [23:08]: "That's also when you start to learn you've got to remove yourself from the situation; let them do their job because they know better than you do."

6. Interview: Stephen Jackson – NFL Legend ([30:52–55:20])

Stephen Jackson’s Mission to Lift Up Forgotten Legends ([31:09–33:07])

Jackson discusses his YouTube show "Legends," which shines a light on overlooked greats from NFL history like Sterling Sharpe, Darren Woodson, and Warrick Dunn.
Stephen Jackson [31:09]: "As we transition from the playing days to retirement... we still feel like we're in the locker room together… Let's reintroduce them to the new generation."

Self-Advocacy and the Hall of Fame ([32:17–33:07])

Jackson explains why he dislikes campaigning for himself, lamenting the lost support after the Rams relocated from St. Louis to LA.
Stephen Jackson [32:17]: "...when the Rams picked up and moved... the beat writers... I will lose their voice and maybe their even their vote..."

Running Back Inspiration and Style ([34:23–35:18])

Modeled himself after Walter Payton, Bo Jackson, Ricky Williams, Marshall Faulk (his teammate), among others, blending power and finesse.

Choosing Oregon State and Early Career ([35:19–36:42])

Details how recruiting led him from Las Vegas to Oregon State, opting for a college that truly wanted him at RB.

Impact of Marshall Faulk and the Old School Locker Room ([36:53–38:06])

Faulk’s mentorship was ‘indirect’—he answered questions but didn’t coddle.
Stephen Jackson [36:55]: "He didn’t treat me as a project, but he also treated me like a man..."

Tone-Setting and Physicality at Running Back ([38:06–39:02])

Stresses the importance of setting a physical tone early in games to warn opponents and fire up the team.

The Devaluation of the Running Back – And Why It’s a Myth ([39:02–41:19])

Jackson recalls his "Save the Running Back" campaign, explaining why elite RBs can never be replaced by "just anyone."
Explains significance of the role in playoffs and for young QBs.

Fantasy Football Fame and Losing Seasons ([41:19–42:17])

Even during 3–13 or 1–15 seasons, Stephen was still adored by fantasy players for his stats.

Injury Prevention and Longevity ([50:06–51:24])

Shares the meticulous off-field recovery regimen that helped him play 12 seasons: ice bath, hyperbaric chamber, abstaining from gluten, strict attention to rest and training.

Reflections on the Rams’ Move ([51:24–52:10])

Feels “like going back to your hometown and your house is torn down”—disconnected, but proud.

Memorable Moments ([52:11–53:34])

Favorite is a determined multi-tackle TD run in Seattle—emblematic of his career’s grit.

Should He Be in the Hall of Fame? ([54:00–54:23])

Leaves the case to his “resume” and humility, but clearly believes he deserves enshrinement.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Matt Castle [30:02]: "He's 6'2", 240, agile, athletic, would run through your face, make you miss… But no—he'd come out of the backfield, catch the ball gracefully…"
Stephen Jackson [38:16]: "It's a tone setter... not only are you setting the tone for the defense, but you're getting your team on alert to say, hey, now we're playing for real."
Bobby Bones [54:23]: "He’s so humble, he won’t even shine on himself. Like, I’m begging him to shine."

Important Timestamps

Fun & Lighter Segments

NFL Rushing Leaders Quiz ([59:05–69:55])

Bobby, Matt, and Stephen play a name-the-top-10-all-time NFL rushing leaders game—lots of banter, guesses, and football trivia history.
Notable players named: Emmitt Smith, Walter Payton, Frank Gore, Barry Sanders, Eric Dickerson, Jerome Bettis, LaDainian Tomlinson, Curtis Martin, Tony Dorsett.

Tone & Style

For Listeners Who Missed the Show

Listen to "The Bobby Bones Show" for your daily fix, wherever you get your podcasts.

Lots to Say: Cutdown Week and Fmr NFL RB Steven Jackson

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Summary

The Bobby Bones Show – "Lots to Say: Cutdown Week and Fmr NFL RB Steven Jackson"

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Excitement and Uncertainty of Preseason & Cutdown Week

2. Quarterback Moves and Locker Room Dynamics ([05:43–10:26])

3. Contract Negotiations and Holdouts ([11:09–13:57])

4. Bobby’s Search for a Favorite NFL Team ([13:57–18:28])

5. The Reality and Stress of Cutdown Week for Players ([18:28–23:19])

6. Interview: Stephen Jackson – NFL Legend ([30:52–55:20])

Stephen Jackson’s Mission to Lift Up Forgotten Legends ([31:09–33:07])

Self-Advocacy and the Hall of Fame ([32:17–33:07])

Running Back Inspiration and Style ([34:23–35:18])

Choosing Oregon State and Early Career ([35:19–36:42])

Impact of Marshall Faulk and the Old School Locker Room ([36:53–38:06])

Tone-Setting and Physicality at Running Back ([38:06–39:02])

The Devaluation of the Running Back – And Why It’s a Myth ([39:02–41:19])

Fantasy Football Fame and Losing Seasons ([41:19–42:17])

Injury Prevention and Longevity ([50:06–51:24])

Reflections on the Rams’ Move ([51:24–52:10])

Memorable Moments ([52:11–53:34])

Should He Be in the Hall of Fame? ([54:00–54:23])

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Fun & Lighter Segments

NFL Rushing Leaders Quiz ([59:05–69:55])

Tone & Style

For Listeners Who Missed the Show

Summary

The Bobby Bones Show – "Lots to Say: Cutdown Week and Fmr NFL RB Steven Jackson"

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Excitement and Uncertainty of Preseason & Cutdown Week

2. Quarterback Moves and Locker Room Dynamics ([05:43–10:26])

3. Contract Negotiations and Holdouts ([11:09–13:57])

4. Bobby’s Search for a Favorite NFL Team ([13:57–18:28])

5. The Reality and Stress of Cutdown Week for Players ([18:28–23:19])

6. Interview: Stephen Jackson – NFL Legend ([30:52–55:20])

Stephen Jackson’s Mission to Lift Up Forgotten Legends ([31:09–33:07])

Self-Advocacy and the Hall of Fame ([32:17–33:07])

Running Back Inspiration and Style ([34:23–35:18])

Choosing Oregon State and Early Career ([35:19–36:42])

Impact of Marshall Faulk and the Old School Locker Room ([36:53–38:06])

Tone-Setting and Physicality at Running Back ([38:06–39:02])

The Devaluation of the Running Back – And Why It’s a Myth ([39:02–41:19])

Fantasy Football Fame and Losing Seasons ([41:19–42:17])

Injury Prevention and Longevity ([50:06–51:24])

Reflections on the Rams’ Move ([51:24–52:10])

Memorable Moments ([52:11–53:34])

Should He Be in the Hall of Fame? ([54:00–54:23])

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Fun & Lighter Segments

NFL Rushing Leaders Quiz ([59:05–69:55])

Tone & Style

For Listeners Who Missed the Show