The Dan Patrick Show - Episode: "Are the Cowboys a Last Place Team?"
Release Date: March 14, 2025
Host: Chris Rose
Guests: Bobby Skinner, Justin Pennock
Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

Introduction and Setting

The episode kicks off with host Chris Rose introducing the panelists, Bobby Skinner and Justin Pennock, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion about the current state of the Dallas Cowboys and broader NFL implications. The conversation is anchored around the Cowboys' offseason moves, their performance outlook, and the intricate quarterback dynamics reshaping the league.

Dallas Cowboys' Current Status

Roster Changes and Team Performance

The discussion begins with a focus on a significant offseason move: former Dallas Cowboy DeMarcus Lawrence signing a three-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks. Justin Pennock highlights Lawrence's loyalty to Dallas despite his departure, stating, “Dallas is my home. I made my home there... but I know for sure I'm not going to win a Super Bowl there” ([05:35] Pennock).

Chris Rose delves into the impact of Lawrence’s departure, noting the subsequent social media backlash from Cowboys' star Micah Parsons. Lawrence retorts, criticizing Parsons for “clown shit” and pointing out the superficial nature of modern player relationships and rivalries ([06:14] Rose).

Team Dynamics and Fan Base Sentiment

Bobby Skinner provides a critical analysis of the Cowboys' roster, arguing that the team is increasingly reliant on star players without sufficient depth. He observes, “I think the Dallas Cowboy roster is a bad roster with stars that's going to carry them” ([07:35] Skinner). Skinner contends that the Cowboys' fan base, historically optimistic, is now grappling with a sense of stagnation and declining performance despite high-profile additions like Kenneth Murray and Javante Williams ([07:48] Skinner).

Justin Pennock offers a counterpoint, acknowledging the team’s potential when key players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb are healthy. He asserts, “If Dak stays healthy, I think there'll be the six or seven seed in the NFC” ([13:10] Pennock).

Future Prospects and Strategic Moves

The panel contemplates the Cowboys' future, debating whether changes in management philosophy, particularly the role of Jerry Jones, could alter the team's trajectory. Skinner criticizes Jones for often failing to back up his ambitious proclamations with effective roster management: “You should be extending Micah Parsons right now... but I feel like they just really don't back it up” ([11:36] Skinner).

Quarterback Situations and Implications

Aaron Rodgers’ Free Agency and Potential Signings

A substantial portion of the episode is dedicated to the quarterback conundrum facing the Pittsburgh Steelers and the broader NFL landscape. The panel discusses Aaron Rodgers' free agency status, his potential signing with the Steelers, and the domino effect it could trigger across teams.

Justin Pennock speculates, “As long as if he goes to Minnesota, then I actually think Minnesota's a legit contender” ([15:54] Pennock), emphasizing the interconnectedness of quarterback signings. Chris Rose raises concerns about the Steelers' quarterback options, lamenting the lack of reliable backups if Rodgers opts out or retires: “Could you imagine if Aaron Rodgers, three weeks from today, decides that he doesn't want to play football anymore...” ([19:16] Rose).

Russell Wilson’s Move to the Giants

Russell Wilson’s transition from Cleveland to the New York Giants is another focal point. The panel debates whether this move strengthens the Giants significantly or poses challenges due to Wilson’s veteran status and potential mismatch with their existing roster.

Justin Pennock expresses skepticism about Wilson’s fit, particularly regarding the Steelers' offensive line and receivers, suggesting potential mismatches: “I do not think it's a great match. DK Metcalf's a really good wide receiver...” ([16:45] Pennock).

Development of Young Quarterbacks

The conversation also touches on the development of young quarterbacks like J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings and the Giants' reliance on potentially unproven talent. Chris Rose questions the Giants' strategy, asking, “Is it irresponsible to not at least really strongly consider bringing Aaron Rodgers into the building?” ([27:43] Rose).

Bobby Skinner underscores the importance of giving young quarterbacks time to develop, noting, “it's not unheard of... to give the reins over to a quarterback in year three” ([28:26] Skinner).

San Francisco 49ers' Contention Status

Offseason Upgrades and Defensive Concerns

Shifting focus to the San Francisco 49ers, the panel evaluates their offseason acquisitions and the resultant impact on the team's competitive edge. Justin Pennock acknowledges some concerns but maintains optimism, stating, “they are still an extremely talented team” ([34:10] Pennock).

Bobby Skinner highlights the critical role of new defensive additions, particularly Robert Sal, who is expected to bring much-needed identity to the defense: “It's huge. I think it's their biggest offseason upgrade so far” ([38:45] Skinner). He expresses apprehension about the defense's overall depth and identity, despite the offensive strengths under Kyle Shanahan.

Draft Prospects and Team Balance

Chris Rose assesses the 49ers' draft strategy and how it aligns with team needs, emphasizing the balance between offensive firepower and defensive solidity: “but defensively, you got to get back to being close to top 10” ([38:51] Rose).

AFC West Analysis: Chiefs, Broncos, Chargers

Kansas City Chiefs’ Dominance

The Chiefs continue to dominate the AFC West, with Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid’s leadership keeping them at the pinnacle. Justin Pennock remarks on the Chiefs’ consistent excellence, suggesting that bridging the gap with other teams is challenging unless Kansas City’s performance wanes: “because Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid are always going to take the Chiefs places” ([40:43] Skinner).

Denver Broncos’ Strategic Moves

The Broncos’ offseason moves, including drafting strategic players like Evan Ingram, are dissected. Bobby Skinner is cautiously optimistic, noting that while the Broncos have bolstered their defense, bridging the gap with the Chiefs requires more dynamic offensive improvements: “They need to add more speed... and they need to add a dynamic runner” ([40:43] Skinner).

Chargers’ Position and Prospects

The Chargers remain competitive in the division, with discussions revolving around their offensive and defensive strategies. Justin Pennock appreciates their draft potential, indicating that the Chargers could emerge stronger with effective use of their draft capital: “We’re probably going to love the Chargers draft” ([43:56] Rose).

Free Agency Highlights

Notable Player Availability

The panel identifies surprising free agents still available, highlighting players like Amari Cooper, Cam Robinson, and Tevin Jenkins. Justin Pennock expresses surprise that contending teams haven’t aggressively pursued Amari Cooper, citing his potential impact despite recent underperformance: “I'm surprised that the Kansas City Chiefs or the Buffalo Bills bringing him back” ([44:09] Pennock).

Bobby Skinner adds to the discussion by suggesting Cam Robinson as a viable option for teams needing offensive line upgrades: “Cam Robinson is okay... you can improve your offensive line” ([45:41] Skinner).

Conclusion

The episode concludes with the panelists expressing anticipation for upcoming NFL developments, particularly regarding quarterback signings and draft outcomes. Chris Rose reinforces the episode’s key discussions, emphasizing the uncertainty and strategic maneuvers shaping the Cowboys' and other teams' futures.

Notable Quotes:

• Justin Pennock ([05:35]): "Dallas is my home. I made my home there... but I know for sure I'm not going to win a Super Bowl there."

• DeMarcus Lawrence ([06:14]): "That's what rejection and envy look like. This some clown shit."

• Bobby Skinner ([07:35]): "I think the Dallas Cowboy roster is a bad roster with stars that's going to carry them."

• Justin Pennock ([13:10]): "If Dak stays healthy, I think there'll be the six or seven seed in the NFC."

• Chris Rose ([27:43]): "Is it irresponsible to not at least really strongly consider bringing Aaron Rodgers into the building?"

• Bobby Skinner ([38:45]): "It's huge. I think it's their biggest offseason upgrade so far."

This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the Dallas Cowboys' strategic position within the NFL, touching upon roster dynamics, quarterback uncertainties, and the broader implications for other teams. The insightful exchanges between Chris Rose, Bobby Skinner, and Justin Pennock offer listeners a nuanced perspective on the evolving landscape of professional football, making it an essential listen for fans keen on understanding the forces shaping their favorite teams.