Are the Cowboys a Last Place Team?

Summary

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

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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.

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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).

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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).

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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).

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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).

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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).

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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."

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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.

Transcript

[Chris Rose]

PayPal lets you pay all your pals like your graduation gifters. Who's paying for the mattress Topper?

[Bobby Skinner]

You mean the beanbag chair?

[Greg Rosenthal]

Aren't we getting a mini fridge?

[Chris Rose]

Can we create a pool on PayPal?

[Greg Rosenthal]

It lets us collect the money before we buy.

[Chris Rose]

Ooh, yes, that's smart.

[Bobby Skinner]

Glad we can agree on something easily.

[Chris Rose]

Pool split and Send Money with PayPal. Get started in the PayPal app. A PayPal account is required to send and receive money. A balance account is required to create a pool.

[Greg Rosenthal]

What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the King of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Julie Swearingen]

What's up, everyone? Julie Swearbinks here, along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.

[Justin Pennock]

We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.

[Julie Swearingen]

The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.

[Justin Pennock]

Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?

[Julie Swearingen]

Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.

[Justin Pennock]

Julie is pretty well connected. She has text through threads going that you wouldn't believe.

[Julie Swearingen]

Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hey, you guys, I'm Katherine Legg. I'm a racing driver who's literally driven everything with four wheels across the planet. And I've got a new podcast. It's called Throttle Therapy. This season, I'm competing in some of the world's most notorious racing events. Tune into my new podcast, Throttle Therapy with Catherine Legg, an iHeart women's sports production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. You can find us on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast, presented by Capital One, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.

[AJ Andrews]

What's up, y'all? I'm AJ Andrews, pro softball player, sports analyst, and the first woman to win a Rawlings Gold Glove. On my new podcast, Dropping Diamonds. We dive headfirst into the world of softball by sharing powerful stories, insights, and conversations that inspire and empower. It's Time to drop bombs and diamonds. Dropping diamonds with A.J. andrews is an Athletes Unlimited softball league production in partnership with iHeart Women's Sports and Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. Listen to dropping diamonds with AJ Andrews starting March 17 on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Chris Rose]

It is Friday, March 14, 2025. This is another edition of football Today. You know my dudes, Bobby Skinner, Justin Pennock, I am Chris Rose producer. Connor is here as well. Pennock, I'm going to start with you. We had an episode earlier this week and then later on in the day, I'm just kind of shuffling through social media and I see Bobby Skinner wish you a happy birthday. How in the world know that it was your birthday when we were recording that day?

[Bobby Skinner]

Well, I'm a humble man, Chris Rose, so I didn't want to hop on and be like, oh, it's my birthday. No. But I had a, I had, I had a good day. And hey, this is, this is a crazy week. I, I, I've accepted for the rest of my life that the new league year is gonna always kind of begin around my birthday and we're gonna have to deal with like, this is a grind week. This is a work week. But I had a good day. I requested a thin chicken cutlets and mashed potatoes with for dinner and I got it. And I'm, my football team got better, but we're still waiting on a quarterback, which we're gonna talk about.

[Chris Rose]

Bobby. So you, you gave him a salute on social media. Did you know when we were taping the show that it was his birthday?

[Justin Pennock]

Yeah. The issue is that we were recording at like midnight the night before on Talking Giants and then you did like.

[Bobby Skinner]

A film breakdown and I, I, I.

[Justin Pennock]

Wished him a happy birthday on that. So it wasn't on the top of my head, but you had fog brain. And Justin's so humble. You know how you know he's humble? He'll tell you.

[Bobby Skinner]

Yeah, usually the most humble people have to tell you that they're really humble and they work hard.

[Chris Rose]

That's, that's adorable. Well, a belated. What is this? 27.

[Bobby Skinner]

Whoa.

[Justin Pennock]

Yeah.

[Bobby Skinner]

Good. Really good guess. Yes.

[Chris Rose]

Okay, that's pretty good. I, I do remember when I was 27. Do I know where I was when.

[Bobby Skinner]

I was about to ask, what were you doing?

[Chris Rose]

I was a, I had just gotten married a year before and was working at CNN Sports Illustrated in Atlanta, the now defunct C. CNN Sports Illustrated, but it was became the 24 Hour News Network of CNN. I was one of five new anchors brought in there. So, yeah, I was a kid. It was fun. It was fun. I was around some legends of this industry. That's for another time, gentlemen.

[Justin Pennock]

Me too. I was starting the Giant Nation podcast with Danny King at 27 and now he works for TMZ. So how about that?

[Chris Rose]

Attaway. That's good. How. How old are you, Bobby?

[Justin Pennock]

30? 33?

[Chris Rose]

36 years.

[Justin Pennock]

Six years ago.

[Chris Rose]

Okay, okay, got it, got it. All right, let's. We will get to the quarterback news. Aaron Rogers, Russell Wilson, all sorts of stuff in. In just a bit. But we're going to start with the Dallas Cowboys, whom we haven't really talked a lot about this off season, but things got very interesting because of a now former Dallas Cowboy, Tank Lawrence ended up taking a three year deal, I believe with the Seattle Seahawks. And then he gave out this interview.

[Justin Pennock]

You know, Dallas is my home. I made my home there. You know, my family lives there. You know, I'm forever going to be there, but, you know, I know for sure I'm not going to win a Super bowl there.

[Chris Rose]

So yeah, we here.

[Justin Pennock]

We here. Demarcus Lawrence, welcome to the Seahawks. Thanks for joining us.

[Chris Rose]

So it got a little spicy there at the end. And you know who noticed? None other than Micah Parsons, who then went on social media and he said that's what rejection and envy look like. This some clown shit. Well, Demarcus Lawrence saw that tweet and then he responded by saying, calling me a clown won't change the fact that I told the truth. Maybe if you spent less time tweeting and more time winning, I wouldn't have left my.

[Justin Pennock]

My favorite response to that was like more time winning. You were on the same team, dumbass. That was my favorite response to it. But I kind of like Micah Parsons. I kind of taking a jab at him, right? I'd like, let's bring back some hate and you know, anger and football. All the players are buddy, buddy now doing jersey swaps. I kind of like it a little bit. DeMarcus Lawrence takes a shot. Michael Parsons takes a shot back. And now we got a real rivalry between Dallas and Seattle.

[Bobby Skinner]

Marcus Lawrence isn't wrong though. And I think a lot of Dallas fans.

[Justin Pennock]

One in Seattle, probably not, but I.

[Bobby Skinner]

Think a lot of Dallas fans honestly feel the same way. I, I haven't seen a fan base that growing up was so kind of like, you know, blinded by, oh, you know, we didn't. Boys, we're going to win it this year. I think they said it for so long that now they're finally getting tired of it, that I think this fan base is just stuck in purgatory of you know what? We got stars, we're okay, we're decent. But we know when it all comes down to it that we're not gonna get it done. And if anything, I think this team is getting worse and is really solely carried by its stars. Were, you know, a couple years ago and hey, producer Connor and I, we were even Talking about that 2014 Dallas teams and you know those teams of Dallas in the 20 teens, like those were complete football teams with superstars. Now I think the Dallas Cowboy roster is a bad roster with stars that's going to carry them. So I don't think DeMarcus Lawrence is wrong and I don't think a lot of Cowboy fans will actually disagree with them.

[Chris Rose]

I think it all depends on who the Giants get at quarterback. The Dallas could be staring at a fourth place season. They could end up last in that NFC east and it wouldn't totally shock me. You know, I went through and combed some of the local rags and stuff like that and some people feel like, well, they've made some decent additions with Kenneth Murray and Jack Sanborn at linebacker. I don't think those are great, great additions at all. Javante Williams, they got on a, you know, a one year deal for no money and they hope that he'll hit a home run while he's gotten over 800 yards one time in his career and has never had more than four touchdowns in a single season. So I mean, can they add in the draft? They absolutely can't. Not only can they, they need to, they have to. And that's the thing is that, you know, if you're not going to go out and spend money in free agency, and I'm not full bore on doing it all the time, but the numbers over the last few years say that the team that does spend the most money in free agency will improve their win total by at least three games. That's happened over the last five or six years. The Cowboys have elected pretty much to sit it out. Whether it's because they don't have the cap space or they just don't aren't interested in building their roster that way. If you want to do that, you damn well better hit on the draft and they haven't done it well enough. And the only reason we talk about the Dallas Cowboys is because they're the Dallas Cowboys, not because they're a significant part of the NFL puzzle.

[Justin Pennock]

Bobby, I disagree with that last part, I mean, they've been really, they've been really good and relevant. Last year, Dak got injured and then, you know, that, that was that, you know, they ended up winning, what, seven games last year? So, like, I don't think it depends on what the, like, if Dak Prescott's healthy for a full year and CD Lamb is healthy for a full year, they're a team that's winning more games than they lose. And, and I think that's the reality. Now. The question with them is they do fall short in the playoffs, but the reason we judge them is not because, oh, they just fall short in the playoffs because. Not because they're the Pittsburgh Steelers, but because they should be winning in the playoffs. They've had the talent to win the playoffs. Now they are entering a time where I think that roster is about as weak as it's been in a long, long time. So I think they are entering that era, Chris Rose, but I don't think they've been that in that since they've had Dak Prescott as their quarterback.

[Chris Rose]

Okay, that's fair. Maybe I'll take that back a little bit. But they also have the longest drought of appearing in an NFC title game. It had been Washington until this past season. We know that there's at least two teams better than them in their division. Right. We all feel like Washington, that that wasn't just a one year while it all came together.

[Justin Pennock]

I think they could be a similar level of team next year. Right. Like, Washington comes down to earth a little bit, but Jaden Daniels, I think is, is amazing, but they, Washington, I love the way they've built the team. They still do have a lot of holes and on that team, but I.

[Chris Rose]

Don'T think that they're worse than the Dallas Cowboys.

[Justin Pennock]

Me either. But I'm saying I don't think they're like, levels apart of just like, talent on the roster.

[Chris Rose]

Okay. I mean, so is it just. It's only going to get better when Jerry Jones isn't in the picture? I mean, is, is this what it's come down to with the Dallas Cowboys, or is there a way to solve this panic?

[Bobby Skinner]

No, I, I think. And again, you know, I, I have some friends that are Cowboy fans, so I, I, that's how I like to stay connected. You know, he get the pulse of the fan base. Right. And I, I think they feel like Stephen Jones is, is going to keep things kind of status quo and they're, I, I think philosophically, Stephen Jones is kind of running things in Dallas along with Jerry. But I think the decisions in free agency to how to attack things philosophically, that I still think is, is Stephen Jones. Now, I think they draft very well.

[Chris Rose]

That.

[Bobby Skinner]

That's not a, that's not a question. But for again, for a team that should be all in, for a team that is called America's Team, you know, a team that honestly like gets comparisons to like the New York Yankees, that there's similar shared fan bases there. Like, you know, at least the Yankees go out and they, they spend money and they try and Jerry Jones talks a big game. Like he wants to go out there and spend and try and he does spend on his own dudes. But also it, it goes against him because he waits until the last minute to pay these players and that's why they have to get paid more and more money and, and they reset all these markets because you should be extending Micah Parsons right now. You should be, you should have extended CD Lamp two years ago. The Dak Prescott deal should have been done two years ago. So talk a big game. But I feel like they just really don't back it up.

[Justin Pennock]

And that's where they get in trouble is because they don't, they don't stay ahead of the game with like, again, it's. If we're talking about some middle of the road player and extending them and you don't get it done right away, it's understandable with Micah Parsons with CD Lam. If you knew you were going to keep Dak not doing all this stuff early, all it does is hurt you. And now it hurts them in free agency where they feel like they can't go make a couple nice moves. Right. No one's. No, like you said, Rosie, no one's expecting them to go all in on free agency and spend the most money. But you can do a couple things per year instead of just averaging bad players, which is what they've, what they've done over the last couple of years.

[Chris Rose]

Where did Dallas Cowboys finish this year? I know the rosters aren't complete. We still have the draft coming up in about five weeks. Where do you guys feel about this team?

[Justin Pennock]

If Dax stays healthy, I think there'll be the six or seven seed in the nfc.

[Chris Rose]

Well, you think they're going to be that good?

[Justin Pennock]

Yeah. I mean, anytime Dak has been healthy, they've been a playoff team.

[Bobby Skinner]

I think they get six wins is the floor and I think nine wins is the ceiling, which that could get. That could get into. No, nine wins can get into the playoffs.

[Chris Rose]

So I Don't think that they're better than the two teams that finished ahead of them in the NFC east last year. There's going to be a team from the South. I don't know if there will be a second. There's, you know, I think the Niners, whom we'll discuss in a bit, are kind of a little bit of the wild card, if you will. And then we got, you know, who knows what Chicago is going to be in that NFC north, but they've got some monsters in that division. Right?

[Bobby Skinner]

All four teams.

[Chris Rose]

Yeah, all four teams. You could make. You could make a case for, I think. I don't know. I think Dallas is. Yeah. 7, 8, 9, depending on how the draft shakes out and what sort of participation everybody gets from a rookie class. But they're just. They just feel like another team and they. I do feel like we're going to be talking a lot about them this year just because they got a star on the side of their helmet and that is a bad place to be that they're just talking about you because people feel like the brand needs to be talked about.

[Justin Pennock]

They probably are just another team. But I think just being another team in the NFC when you have Dak Prescott as your QB gets you in the playoffs.

[Bobby Skinner]

Yeah, their stars are really good.

[Justin Pennock]

Let's go. I mean, Commanders, Eagles, playoffs, Lions, Vikings are, you know, not locks, but we feel good that they'll be actually, you know what? Vikings aren't even a lock. We don't even know who they're going to be playing a quarterback. Lions are a lock. Let's just say two from the NFC north are a lock between vikings and Packers. Four, one from the NFC South. Five. One from the NFC West. Six, the Cowboys. I can see very easily being that 17. And then some quarterback gets injured. Like Dallas's quarterback got injured and falls out. Like, it's just the way it goes.

[Chris Rose]

So I think you are very optimistic. Optimistic.

[Justin Pennock]

I don't feel like that's. If you have Dak Prescott and CD Lamb and Michael Parsons, I feel like that's. That's a low bar to reach.

[Chris Rose]

Okay, let's get to the quarterback situation. Russell Wilson was in Cleveland on Thursday. He's in New Jersey with the Giants on Friday. Everybody, it seems like, is waiting on Aaron Rodgers, who might still be roaming the beach in Malibu, although I doubt it because the weather's been so poor. So if so, that blanket over his head is probably very damp at this point. You know, he hasn't had any huge contact. It sounds like with A lot of these teams that have availabilities, whether that is indeed the Giants or the Steelers or we keep hearing rumblings about the Minnesota Vikings. What aspect of this are you most interested in? Bobby Skinner?

[Justin Pennock]

With Rogers, I'm more interested in the domino effect. As long as if he goes to Minnesota, then I actually think Minnesota's a legit contender. But I don't think that's happening. I mean, I think we're all assuming he goes to Pittsburgh, but we also don't know what he's thinking. It's just the domino effect. Does that lead to Russell Wilson, to the Giants? Do the Giants get ahead of this and realize they're not getting Aaron Rodgers and sign Russell Wilson, you know, late later today when this episode is out, where does Joe Flacco and like, I think it's the more so the domino effect of once he's signed with most likely the Steelers and what happens. But it will again. Him with the Steelers, I think is pretty. Like, that may not go really well. Right. Like George Pickens and Aaron Rodgers, I do not think is a. Is a great match. DK Metcalf's a really good wide receiver, but we don't, we don't view him as like the change your team type of wide receiver. One, you know, he's worse than Garrett Wilson who was with the jets last year. And hell, he's worse than Devonte Adams I think at this point as well too, but probably similar tier. But Devonte Adams fits what Rogers wants better. And then, you know, they're asking a lot of young offensive linemen to, you know, to grow up real quick. Like, I don't think it's this great situation in Pittsburgh. I think it's just stability with Mike Tomlin in that defense.

[Bobby Skinner]

Rose, what's your take on the timing of this? Because, you know, as, as a fan that possibly wanted Aaron Rodgers to join my team and it's. The reality is kind of set in that that probably won't happen. Like, I do think he's going to go to Pittsburgh or he's just waiting for Minnesota to, to accept him. I thought that maybe, you know, hey, after the disastrous two years that was. And maybe he would look at himself in the mirror and be like, you know what? Making things about me was maybe part of the reason why the last two years have been disastrous. So maybe I'll be a little bit more quiet and do things a little bit more conventional. Shame on me for, for thinking that that may happen. I mean, he's been allowed to talk to Teams for, I think basically the last two weeks. It wasn't just the beginning of the new league year or, you know, the beginning of the tampering period. The jets gave him permission to talk to teams last two weeks. So what is your take on the timing of this? Because even guys like Rapaport and Schefter seem really bothered by it.

[Chris Rose]

I'm not bothered by it. He can make whatever he's earned that whatever decision he wants to make. This is, it's almost a little bit like parenting where the, the organizations take on the role of being parents and you have to set ultimatums sometimes. I would say, hey, Aaron, we would love to have you here. We think you are a difference maker. We think you can set this building the right direction. Or if you're the Steelers, who don't need to be sent in the right direction, but rather we think you are the missing piece to us getting back in the playoff win column and then we'll all go on this amazing journey together. But I would say, hey, we understand that maybe you're not ready to make a decision, but we have to be ready and I hope you respect that. And if you're not ready, that's okay, but we just have to move on like that. You have to do that. Could you imagine if Aaron Rodgers, three weeks from today, decides that he doesn't want to play football anymore and this and Russell Wilson has signed elsewhere? Well, what, what's the Steelers option? What do the Steelers do? Where, literally, where would they turn?

[Bobby Skinner]

I don't think they have a quarterback on the roster right now.

[Chris Rose]

They just. Mason Rudolph.

[Bobby Skinner]

Oh, congratulations, he's back.

[Chris Rose]

Is Duck Hodges around still? I mean, but that's my point. Literally, this. You can't not. I mean, I suppose you could try and figure out how to get Kirk Cousins to town if you wanted to. I mean, you might have to trade up to go get him.

[Justin Pennock]

I know, just don't get up there.

[Chris Rose]

Right. But do you understand what I'm saying is that these teams have to take a stance at some point and if they're going to play the waiting game, that it's not even the perfect situation if he does walk through your doors, you have to be honest with yourself. If you're the Steelers, like the sell job to Rogers is we think you're the missing piece behind closed doors. You might look at the film and say we're probably in the same position we were last year, you know, with.

[Justin Pennock]

Russell Wilson and, and, and this is a key part of this too, because with Rogers, you Get a lot of baggage. And this is where, you know, we'd sit on talking Giants this morning. It's like, damn it, we. We got the Felford again award where we're like, you know, you. You think as a reasonable person, right, like, oh, lat. The. How the jets went is probably a little bit of a humbling experience for Aaron Rodgers. Right. And it may change his approach on his, you know, as he turns 41 years old and he's on a new team or something like that. It's like, nope, nope. It hasn't. It hasn't. Right? Why. Why did you fall for it again? Why. Why would you think that Aaron Rodgers has. Has changed in that. And part of bringing him in for this, this era, if you're the Steelers or the Giants, is not giving him control over what he wants with. With stuff like, it's. He's got to kind of buy into what you're doing, and I don't think that you're getting that. So to be desperate for that. And like you said, Rose, where. I don't think he played great ball last year. I know the touchdown, the interception ratio is nice, but there's some, you know, there is some bad ball on film last year for Aaron Rodgers. If I were like you said Rose, if I were one of these teams, like, all right, like, we need the decision by the end of the day, right? If you don't want to pick us and that turns you off from us, fine, but we need to, we need to have a quarterback for next year, and we can't afford to have guys walk elsewhere.

[Chris Rose]

Okay, I want to ask this, number one, if Aaron Rodgers goes to Pittsburgh, how much of an upgrade is that over the quarterback play they had last year?

[Justin Pennock]

I think it's a pretty decent upgrade. And then when you, when you consider the fact that DK Metcalf is there as well, too, we'll see how they add. You know, I think they can add a nice, you know, slot receiver to go with them pick. The Pickens thing is good. It's going to be really interesting to see how that relationship would go. But nonetheless, he's really talented and Rogers can get him the ball.

[Chris Rose]

Okay, if. If Rogers elects to go elsewhere or wants to retire, what should the Steelers do? Panic.

[Bobby Skinner]

I don't know. Cousins. The pivot would have to be. No working something.

[Justin Pennock]

What else that mean? I think Mason Rudolph would be a better option than Kirk Cousins at this point.

[Chris Rose]

What?

[Justin Pennock]

Did you see Kirk Cousins at the end of the last year?

[Chris Rose]

I did. I did. And he claims that he was injured even though he was not on the injury report.

[Justin Pennock]

Sure. But that's a, That's a big chance to take that. I mean, that's, that's flashbacks of Matt Ryan with the Colts, like, oh, he's not washed. Look, you know, and you get Cindy Annapolis, and he is 100% wash. Like, I'm not taking that chance for Kirk Cousins. As. As. Again, I guess you could bring in Kirk Cousins and you still have Mason Rudolph on the team. But, yeah, there's no good answers. I think this is one of the hardest things about talking about NFL and stuff is sometimes. Sometimes it's hard to admit that there's not a great answer at the quarterback spot. Right. Well, you know, we're going through this right now for the Giants. I don't believe Shorter Sanders is worth the third overall pick. And it's like, okay, what do you do? How do you get a quarterback next? Like, I don't know. I don't. I. I cannot tell you. I don't have this perfect plan. You have to get lucky at the quarterback spot.

[Chris Rose]

Sometimes you do, because there's not 32 dudes walking the earth that can do this. That is amazing that out of the 330 gazillion people there are on this planet that there aren't 32 who can do this at an amazing rate. And I suppose the question is, how did the Steelers get to this point? Is it strictly because they put all of their financials on the defensive side of the football and that they didn't draft a quarterback the last few years of Ben's tenure? I. I'd have to go back and look and see which quarterbacks were available. I mean, I hate doing the revisionist history that, well, look at the number of teams that passed on this guy and that, like, that. That sort of stuff we're talking about realistically, like, remember, like, the only one.

[Justin Pennock]

I could think of is Jordan Love.

[Bobby Skinner]

Or even, like, well, I, you know, they even passed well, Jordan Love. That was a couple years ago. But even like Will Levis, but you're not, You're. You're not losing sleep over passing on him. They've. They win too many games. They haven't had one year. Like, at least the Colts, The Colts had that one year where they sucked and they took Anthony Richardson, you know, and, you know, that hasn't really worked out for them, but at least they took somebody that, that they want to believe in and this. But the Steelers haven't had that opportunity. And the only year that they had an opportunity to do so was when Kenny Pickett was the first quarterback taken in a draft.

[Chris Rose]

Well, let's be honest. How many teams? I can only think of the Kansas City Chiefs that have taken a huge, huge swing, who traded up from 27, where they were a playoff team, all the way to 10 to go get Patrick Mahomes. Right. They could have continued on with Alex Smith as their guy moving forward. They went for the big. Probably the biggest move that I can remember ever in terms of going after a quarterback and going to get him. You know how hard it is to move up 17 spots. That is not an easy thing to do, particularly when you already are a playoff team and you're like, wait a second, we're going for some guy who runs this crazy offense and doesn't even have a winning record in college. But, man, they had the foresight. Like, the Steelers never had that. And they weren't willing to do it because they didn't want to ruffle the feathers of Ben Roethlisberger. They've been too afraid to say anything. How. How crazy is it that this big bad organization known as the Pittsburgh Steelers have handled the quarterback solution quiz this poorly?

[Justin Pennock]

Yeah, again, like you said, I don't think there's been an aggressive move up like the Mahomes thing. Like, the only thing I can think of is Wentz to the Eagles trading up for Carson Wentz. I think they traded up from like 16 or 17 to 2.

[Chris Rose]

Yeah. They went middle of the first round all the way.

[Justin Pennock]

Or the RG3 trade. Like I'm trying to think of. There's. There hasn't been that again. So that's why, as much as it's got to be. So, hey, I'm living it right now. It's frustrating, right? It's like, all right, but what are the offer? At least with the Giants we can go back and look at 2020. It's like, yeah, Justin Herbert was looking us right in the face. Could have. Could have just quit on Daniel Jones after his rookie year and did that. You know, I know people lose last year. I'm not going to do that. Like, it's just. It's. Unfortunately, you have to get somewhat lucky. Right? Like the Cincinnati Bengals are lucky that with Andy Dalton. Their. Their worst year was the year Joe Burrow came out.

[Chris Rose]

Right.

[Justin Pennock]

Like, they were paying Andy Dalton.

[Chris Rose]

Right.

[Justin Pennock]

The Chargers were paying Philip Rivers when they got Justin Herbert. Lamar Jackson, I guess Lamar Jackson is the other answer. Rose. But Big Ben was still playing really damn good ball at that. At that point, and they were, the Steelers were a really good team. So I guess Lamar Jackson would be the other answer. But it's just, it's hard. It's really hard. Like, it's, it's not, it's. You have to get lucky. And you know, the Giants, if the Giants won three games last year, they would have had, you know, either Drake May or Jaden Daniels. They win three games this year and they're picking third.

[Chris Rose]

I hear you. I think about it all the time. One last quarterback point, and I think it's an important one. You were basically screaming at The Vikings, hey, J.J. mcCarthy, you traded up for him. This is your guy. Go start him. I've had a couple days to sit here and think about it. Is it really, particularly with what they have now done in free agency and adding some veteran, good, good players along the defensive line and, you know, offensive line as well, like, they feel like a pretty complete team to give it over to a very young quarterback who we don't know if he can play at this level. Is it irresponsible to not at least really strongly consider bringing Aaron Rodgers in the building?

[Justin Pennock]

Then my question is, why did you trade up for J.J. mcCarthy? Because I don't think you had that much faith in him.

[Chris Rose]

Okay. I think that we, these are separate issues. To me, they really are because I don't think they expected to be as good as they were last year with Sam Darnold. And they were, they were, they were this close to being the 1 seed in the NFC. Right, right. They lose that Sunday Night Football game at Detroit or else they would have been the one seed. So this team feels pretty complete, doesn't it? Panic. Why in the world would you turn the keys over to a kid that's 22 and look like he £3 the last time we saw him?

[Bobby Skinner]

Well, and again, I, I, because you traded up for him, which he took him in the first round. That's, that's why that should take a.

[Justin Pennock]

Lot of conviction to do, because you.

[Bobby Skinner]

Have conviction, because you had conviction to take him in the, in the first place. And you know, you bring in Aaron Rodgers and probably Aaron Rodgers is not going to play bad enough where he is going to be benched on the Minnesota Vikings. So then you're talking about, well, when, when do you actually turn to J.J. mcCarthy, which I guess, hey, year three, it's not, it's not unheard of to, you know, in today's NFL, to now give the reins over to a quarterback in year three and then, hey, he'll still be, I think like 23 years old. And it's not like we're talking about a guy that's 25, 26. So it's not unheard of. But it's. If you had such a belief that they even had that second first round pick that they wound up taking Dallas Turner with, they had that as ammo because they were even willing to move up further if they felt like they needed to do that to get J.J. mcCarthy. That's at least my running theory, and I think a lot of people would agree with that. So if you have that conviction to even trade up twice for him, then maybe there gets to a point where maybe you should play them. But if they're having conversations in the building about, hey, we don't trust this kid to play, then Rogers would make sense.

[Chris Rose]

Do you think, do you think that they're a Super bowl contender if they sign Aaron Rodgers right now? Bobby?

[Justin Pennock]

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, that team is, that team is so good.

[Chris Rose]

Then why wouldn't you do it? You can't just say, because if you, if you spot.

[Justin Pennock]

Okay, but here's the. And again, I'm not saying they shouldn't do it because I, I don't, I, if I, if I took over the GM job right now, I think I'd be in on Aaron Rodgers for them. But if they. To trade up in the first round for a quarterback takes a lot of conviction. So if you have that conviction, why don't you think that you're opening up a Super bowl window between in the next year to three years with that quarterback? Right? You drafted him to take you to the super bowl, not to be an average quarterback. So. But if, even if he's an above average quarterback, like that system is sick. It's the easiest, it's the, it's the, it's one of the easiest landing spots I've ever seen for a rookie quarterback. So if you believed in him, then he should make you a Super bowl contender. Okay. Because Aaron Rodgers is not what he once was either.

[Chris Rose]

But we think he's better than J.J. mcCarthy right now. Is it. Shouldn't that be the question? Because you do have five years if you want to exercise a guy's option. The packers didn't know what they had on Jordan Love until he started year four of his contract. Year four. So why not make JJ McCarthy wait one more year and then we'll deal with it from there. And if Aaron Rodgers doesn't take us to the promised land, so be it. But this is an organization that hasn't been to the super bowl since losing Super Bowl 11, they've never won one of these things. So why wouldn't you? Don't you have?

[Justin Pennock]

Because I don't think Aaron Rodgers is the MVP level quarterback that he once was. Right.

[Chris Rose]

But he.

[Justin Pennock]

We're not saying it's because Aaron, like Aaron Rodgers doesn't make the Steelers a Super bowl contender. He makes the Vikings, who you said like we're so close because of how good that team is, take the next step. So why not show some faith in that young quarterback and put them in the easiest landing spot of all time and hope that you are developing for super bowl within the next three years with that roster and your quarterback on a cheap contract.

[Chris Rose]

I don't know. I just don't feel like I thought, like there was a huge gap between Drake May who went third and JJ McCarthy who wasn't.

[Justin Pennock]

I'm on the same page as you, but.

[Chris Rose]

So if that's the, if that's the point, I still have faith, more faith in 41 year old Aaron Rodgers that he could get the Vikings pointed in the right direction in 2025 than JJ McCarthy, whom I don't know what the NFL skill set looks like.

[Justin Pennock]

Okay. But what if they drafted Michael Penix and he had the three games that he had last year where it's like there's a lot of missed throws but some really good flashes in there. Are we having the same conversation or is it simply just because JJ McCarthy was injured?

[Chris Rose]

But that's where we are.

[Justin Pennock]

But I'm saying, would Michael Pennix's three games be enough to stop you from doing Aaron Rodgers?

[Chris Rose]

No, because I don't think.

[Justin Pennock]

All right, that then. Okay, okay then, then I mean, I.

[Chris Rose]

Also don't think that the Falcons are anywhere close to what the Vikings are. So I'm really.

[Justin Pennock]

No, but I'm saying if the Vikings drafted Michael Penix, I get it, but.

[Chris Rose]

All I'm saying is, is that if the, if Michael Penix was in the same situation and with that team, yeah, I would want to go get somebody that I felt like I definitely knew what I had at quarterback or at least had a better grasp of it. Even if he is 40, I, if.

[Justin Pennock]

Matthew Stafford was available, then I'm, I'm, I'm probably on the same page as you, Rose, but I just, I don't think Rogers is the MVP form of himself.

[Chris Rose]

Well, he's not. He's not.

[Bobby Skinner]

And we also, we also just spent part of the show talking about how, you know, we, at least I thought and you know, foolishly thought that Aaron Rodgers may humble himself a little bit after, after two. After the last two years. And, you know, maybe, maybe that's part of Minnesota's decision making. Is, you know, okay, is, is this guy going to come in here? Is this guy going to come in here and be a saint simply because we have a really good head coach and a really good surrounding cast is like, I'm sure. Maybe. Maybe that's part of their thought process as well.

[Chris Rose]

Maybe. All right, let's move on. Some feel that after free agency that The San Francisco 49ers are no longer a true contender in the NFC. Bobby, are you one of those people? Long pause.

[Justin Pennock]

Because they're not my favorite and they're not even my top three for favorite. And again, they lost Hargrave since the last time we had this conversation. Rose Trevarious wars goes to the Colts. I. I don't think they're out of the conversation. I'll here, I'll say this. They're my NFC west pick next year, most likely.

[Chris Rose]

Over the Rams.

[Justin Pennock]

Yeah, why not? Again, it's basing a lot of on health, but the Rams is based a lot on health as well, too. Puka's gotten hurt. Stafford's gotten hurt before. And again, I love the rams, but the 49ers are still extremely talented and they've drafted well and they have young players who showed some promise and they'll probably draft well again this year. I know everything went to last year and maybe this is all based on how healthy is Christian McCaffrey.

[Bobby Skinner]

Yes.

[Justin Pennock]

And maybe I can leave in that, you know, antidote. It's like if Christian McCaffrey is healthy, then, then yes. If he's not, then no. But they are still an extremely talented team. They have all pros all over the field.

[Chris Rose]

So I would say this for people that have kind of lost track. They lost Trevarius, Ward, Floyd Collins, Hargrave, all from that front line. Dre, Greenlaw, Hufanga, who's obviously had his injury issues, same with Greenlaw in recent years. Use check. They're getting rid of as well. They did bring in Pinnock and Grant to kind of help in the secondary a little bit on the back end. Demarcus Robinson, I thought was, you know, he's been a touchdown machine for the Rams. So that gives them Pearsall, Juwan Jennings, Robinson. They'll probably get some sort of receiver in this draft. So you mentioned about the importance of this draft. They've got eight picks in the first four rounds. They've got two in the third, two in the fourth to go along with a first and a second. Last year's draft class was really really good. I thought Pearsall we know what happened with him with the shooting but then back half of the year when he got active, particularly the last third of the year really played well. Puni good on the offensive line. Mustafa is going to slide in for Hufanga. Isaac Garendo I thought gave them some nice bursts and is a really speedy player. He's going to take on more of a I think a bigger role behind Christian McCaffrey this year. But the 2023 draft, outside of J. Brown, nothing. The 2022 draft they got their quarterback but that was it. So they really haven't gotten the these depth pieces that you need exodus like they have had right now. So I think it's really incumbent on some guys who maybe they didn't think would be there and have to help out to do something this year and that's why I'm kind of they feel like an eight win team to me.

[Bobby Skinner]

Panic yeah, I am a little bit lukewarm on the 49ers but I'm I'm holding out a good amount of hope because if we really like this year's draft class five picks inside the top 113 and I think they have a total of 12 rows. You might have already said that. Here are the top five teams in explosive pass plays last year going from five to one the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Green Bay packers at four, the Lions at three, the Vikings at two and surprisingly enough it is the San Francisco 49ers at one. And I really do think that that pass offense, that passing offense is impacted when Christian McAffrey went out because I think he does add more than any other running back in the NFL. I think he adds the threat of receiving and I think Kyle Shanahan knows exactly how to use Christian McCaffrey in the receiving game. And I think the overall passing offense for the 49ers did suffer last year but explosivity wise they still produced a lot of explosive plays. And really I still think this is a top 10 offense because you have Kyle Shanahan. I think Brock Purdy has taken steps up even though he gets criticized. You know Ayuk is good. Pierce holes can help it. You still have kittle offensive line is Kyle Shanahan knows how to scheme past an offensive line that may have some deficiency issues. So I'm not worried about the offense. What I am worried about is this defense and a lack of defensive identity. Now, I am so glad that Robert Sal is back, because I think he's going to bring an identity, and I think he's, you know, one of the best defensive minds in football. But that talent there, like, if Utor Gross Matos is our number two edge across from Nick Bosa, I'm not loving that. Hopefully Drake Jackson gets healthy, stays healthy, takes some steps up. That's a player I like. But you just look up and down this front, and besides Nick Bosa, there's not really a name that, you know, you. You want to go to and be like, yeah, that's a. That's like a dude. That's a guy that can really kind of take them places. So they need to get an identity that they had back in 2022 when Nick Bosa won that defensive player of the year. But there were other dudes on that defense that helped make that work. I think offensively they're going to be fine. Defensively, you got to get back to being close to top 10, because if you're below average, the 49ers are just going to be a middling team.

[Justin Pennock]

How important is the addition of Robert Sala to that defense?

[Bobby Skinner]

It's huge. I think it's their biggest offseason upgrade so far.

[Chris Rose]

Yep. And also, I don't.

[Justin Pennock]

I think those are names that they lost on the front. I don't think those names were necessarily living up to their names, you know, with Leonard Floyd and Javon Hargrave and.

[Chris Rose]

No. And when you release guys in their 30s, I. I can live with that. It's like the Dre Greenlaws of the world. Right. Who's still, I think, 27 years old. And I understand it to the, you know, the standpoint of the injury, but, man, when you had. And Fred Warner, I mean, that's. That's as good a group in the middle as you can get. We'll see where they go. So Greenlaw has a new home. It's Denver. I think we all are in agreement that we like what they have done so far in free agency with their off season. Is it now enough to push Kansas City atop the AFC West? Panic. You can start with this one.

[Bobby Skinner]

I think the talent is closer for sure. I mean, the Broncos defense was better than the. Than the Chiefs last year. What. What's going to really bridge the gap between Denver and Kansas City isn't necessarily the roster. It's honestly like, we gotta wait for Kansas City to stop winning so many freaking games. And, like, is event Is the pendulum eventually going to swing the other way where the Kansas City Chiefs start losing these one score games? And if that answer is yes, then hey, I think the Broncos, if they add more dynamic weapons, I think they need to add more speed. I for how good that offensive line is, I do think that passing game should be a little bit better to take steps up. It really took a big step up in the second half of the year. I think their running game should be dynamic and they need to add a little bit more of a dynamic runner. It's a very good running back draft and I think that's where Sean Payton's going to look. I actually really love the addition of Evan Ingram adding speed at that tight end. Don't ask him to block.

[Justin Pennock]

Yeah. You want to increase the run game and then Evan Ingram is not your starting tight end.

[Bobby Skinner]

Well, yeah, and I. And that's. And that's the worry of adding a guy like Evan Ingram is how much is it going to impact that. And you know, you just signed a guy for a lot of money and you may only have him on the field for X X amount of percentage of snaps. But for me it's Kansas City needs to start losing games if we're going to start bridging this gap between, between the two. Because I think on paper they're getting there. But Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid are always going to take the Chiefs places.

[Justin Pennock]

Also the Chargers are in this conversation too. I mean, you know, we're there. You know, the Broncos didn't even finish second place in the division last year. So that defense, I'm really excited for it. Defense is, it's just hard to have the number one defense two years in a row. It's just for some reason, no matter what you keep together, it just. Defenses seem to not have the same consistency that offense has because you don't have that one position like a quarterback that holds you afloat. I think the Chargers, so I don't think they've bridged it. If Bo Nix is real deal and takes more steps forward then, then yeah, absolutely. But I think this division is low key, tough. Now that you add Geno Smith into the conversation with the Raiders, they can win on, on any given Sunday where they really weren't in that conversation last year that the Patrick Mahomes part of this just they're going to rise to the top in this division. At the end of the day, I.

[Chris Rose]

Think Denver's right there. I really believe it. I will tip my cap to Sean Payton and the job he did with Bo Nicks because I thought he was way better than I anticipated. I thought his ability to throw the ball downfield when asked to superseded any of my thought process going into last year. You know, you guys ripped on Evan Ingram and you know, you guys see him as this 20 year old you draft out of Ole Miss. And yes, he's not a run blocker, but the Broncos had major tight end deficiencies in the catch game. And few tight ends do a better job of converting third downs for first downs than Evan Ingram. Only the Giants and Cowboys had fewer red zone targets toward their tight end than the Denver Broncos last year. So that's going to change as well. So this is a, this was a strategic move by them. And you know, a lot of mock drafts had them getting Colston loveland with the 20th pick this year, the tight end out of Michigan. This frees them up if somehow Genty falls, which I don't think he'll fall the way, or if they feel like Overton is the right kid out of North Carolina or if they want to trade back and get an extra pick or two. I mean, like, they're in good, good shape. I like the, I like what they've done this off season more than I have the Chargers, which is why I didn't throw them in. The question here, that's, yeah, I've liked.

[Bobby Skinner]

Their off season better than, better than the Chargers too. I mean, the Chargers have had more volume, but like, you know, some, some of them, like, you know, I, I don't like some of the receivers they've brought in. I don't really, I don't love Naji Harris. I thought they would bring in somebody a little bit more dynamic, but we'll see. There's, there's still the draft left and we're probably going to love the Chargers draft.

[Chris Rose]

Okay. Before we get out of here, there's still some big names out there in free agency. Who is the one guy that you're surprised is still available and make a case for him?

[Justin Pennock]

Bobby Amari, Cooper. I figured that there would be some contending team that would say, hey, he had a lot of drops in Cleveland. He got thrown in the Buffalo late in the mix. But I mean, he was, you know, we're one year off of him being off back to back, you know, really good seasons for the Browns. He's not like, he's not 32, 33 like the other, you know, vet receivers that are available. I'm surprised that the Kansas City Chiefs or the Buffalo Bills bringing him back like I'm. I'm just surprised a contending team hasn't brought in Amari Cooper and throwing some real money at him.

[Chris Rose]

I don't know. I, obviously I watch him very closely. The last few years, he only had 20 catches in eight games with Buffalo. 20 catches. I mean, only 32 targets. It's four a game for a guy who's been a highly decorated receiver.

[Justin Pennock]

I agree, but usually when we're talking about like these types of wide receiver vets, there are 32, 33, and you know, it's DeAndre, he's only 30 years old, you know, and he'll be 31 for the season. I just feel like I'm surprised. No team has thrown at him like a 2 year, $25 million contract. And May. And maybe they have, and that's. Amari Cooper's not taking that. But I just. If you told me between, you know, DeAndre Hopkins or Cooper cup or whatever, I think Amari Cooper would be my pick. In fact, I'm surprised the Patriots have not made a play on him and supposedly they might be out on Cooper Cup. So Amari Cooper is a little surprising to me.

[Chris Rose]

Panic rose.

[Bobby Skinner]

I'm going to say two players because I'm willing to bet an insignificant body part that you're not going to talk about the offensive line. So I'm going to go with Cam Robinson and Tevin Jenkins, where Cam Robinson for being an average tackle. And that's what he is. He is an average tackle. I think he is the best left tackle that was available on the market for free agency. And I think there are a lot of teams that could use a left tackle or even if you have to overpay him. I think Cam Robinson is okay. I don't think he's bad. I think he's okay. As long as you kind of know that you're getting that you, you can improve your offensive line. And Tevin Jenkins too, who actually did like legit play well and is very young and kind of revitalized this career as the years have gone on with the Chicago Bears. I'm kind of shocked to see the money that Aaron Banks got. Cause I think that Tevin Jenkins is a better player than Aaron Banks. I especially think as a pass blocker. Maybe Aaron Banks has got him edged as a run blocker. Maybe, maybe not. So the fact that Tevin Jenkins is still unsigned, you know, maybe there's some injury questions, but other than that, can't think of a reason why a young, a young good guard shouldn't be somewhere.

[Chris Rose]

You Know, I thought actually that with Aaron Banks making the move to the NFC North, I thought that maybe Jenkins going to San Francisco to take his place would have been a good move. Yeah, but you know, once again they've got some sort of cap issue. Maybe they don't now. I don't know what we'll see. For me, I'm going edge rusher. Zadarius Smith can still Play. At age 33, he had nine sacks last year, split between Cleveland and Detroit. My guess is with a guy like Z that it's a money issue. It's always been. The contract has always been at the forefront of discussions with him and good for him. He's made a lot of money and he's had a highly productive career. He's got 69 career sacks, but he could still do it at this age. And do you need him to play 50 snaps a game? No. But more and more we see teams coming in with packages and they say, well, maybe our four isn't significantly better than your front four defensive line wise, but our eight are awesome. And so he could be a big part of the next group that comes in for some team that wants to go get the passer. So I think that Zadarius Smith is going to find a home. It'll just be curious for how much. It'll be a one year deal. But can he get 10, 12 million dollars like Joey Bosa did? I mean, I'll be honest with you. Joey Bosa might be a bigger name. I would put Zadarius Smith's pass rushing skills past Joey Bose at this point of his career. Yep, that's what I would say. So there you go. All right. So next week maybe we'll have some sort. Do we think that we'll have an answer on the quarterback situations? Yes or no? Anybody? Will it be a big signing this weekend, you think so?

[Justin Pennock]

Russell Wilson is going to happen the most inconvenient time for me.

[Chris Rose]

Okay, Panic.

[Bobby Skinner]

And me too. I hope not. Let's. Let's reconvene Monday at. Monday at noon and then everybody, everybody can resume all talks. Have a great weekend, everyone. That sounds.

[Chris Rose]

That's right. So for Bobby Skinner and Justin Pennock and producer Connor always does a bang up job on the show. I am Chris Rose. We will see you next week here on Football Today.

[Justin Pennock]

Russell Wilson to the Giants.

[Chris Rose]

Don't say that.

[Justin Pennock]

Just kidding.

[Chris Rose]

PayPal lets you pay all your pals like your graduation gifters. Who's paying for the mattress topper?

[Bobby Skinner]

You mean the bean bag?

[Greg Rosenthal]

Aren't we getting a mini fridge.

[Chris Rose]

Can we create a pool on PayPal?

[Greg Rosenthal]

It lets us collect the money before we buy.

[Chris Rose]

Ooh, yes, that's smart.

[Bobby Skinner]

Glad we can agree on something easily.

[Chris Rose]

Pool split and Send Money with PayPal. Get started in the PayPal app. A PayPal account is required to send and receive money. A balance account is required to create a pool.

[Greg Rosenthal]

What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101 free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Julie Swearingen]

What's up, everyone? Julie Swerbinks here along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.

[Justin Pennock]

We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.

[Julie Swearingen]

The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.

[Justin Pennock]

Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?

[Julie Swearingen]

Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.

[Justin Pennock]

Julie is pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.

[Julie Swearingen]

Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hey, you guys. I'm Katherine Legge. I'm a racing driver who's literally driven everything with four wheels across the planet. And I've got a new podcast. It's called Throttle Therapy. This season, I'm competing in some of the world's most notorious racing events. Tune into my new podcast, Throttle Therapy, with Katherine Legg, an iHeart women's sports production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. You can find us on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Presented by Capital One, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.

[AJ Andrews]

What's up, y'all? I'm AJ Andrews, pro softball player, sports analyst, and the first woman to win a Rawlings Gold Glove. On my new podcast, Dropping Diamonds, we dive headfirst into the world of softball by sharing powerful stories, insights, and conversations that inspire and empower. It's time to drop bombs and diamonds. Dropping diamonds with A.J. andrews is an athlete's unlimited softball league production in partnership with iHeart Women's Sports and Deep Blue Sports and entertainment. Listen to dropping diamonds with AJ Andrews starting March 17 on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.