The Dan Patrick Show: Hour 1 – Christmas in March, Judy Battista
Release Date: March 10, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick
Co-Hosts: Paul Pabst, Judy Battista

Introduction and Opening Remarks

In the debut episode titled "Christmas in March," Dan Patrick and co-host Paul Pabst dive deep into the latest NFL offseason developments. The show kicks off with a lively discussion about recent player transactions, team strategies, and the financial maneuvers of top NFL franchises. Bringing insider insights, NFL Network's Judy Battista joins the conversation, providing expert analysis on the evolving landscape of the league.

NFL Trade Analysis

Miles Garrett and the Cleveland Browns

The episode begins with an in-depth analysis of Miles Garrett's decision to remain with the Cleveland Browns. Paul Pabst raises questions about Cleveland's reluctance to trade Garrett despite his initial desire to leave. Dan Patrick comments, highlighting Garrett's pivotal role:

"Miles Garrett wanted to go someplace else. They didn't get blown away by anybody... I think he had to say, okay, I'm going to stay, but what are you going to pay me?"
[03:10] - Dan Patrick

The co-hosts explore the implications of Garrett's contract, noting that while his salary benefits the player, it tightens Cleveland's salary cap, potentially limiting future acquisitions.

Geno Smith and the Las Vegas Raiders

Transitioning to Geno Smith's move to the Raiders, Paul Pabst expresses optimism about the Raiders securing a reliable quarterback:

"The Raiders got a quarterback that they can count on and they haven't had that for a little while."
[04:44] - Dan Patrick

The discussion touches on the competitive AFC West division and how Geno Smith's presence could stabilize the Raiders' offense.

Devonte Adams and the Los Angeles Rams

Devonte Adams' transfer to the Rams is lauded as a significant upgrade for Los Angeles:

"Devonte Adams going there. Matthew Stafford's got to be thrilled."
[04:44] - Paul Pabst

The hosts highlight how this move strengthens the Rams' receiving corps, pairing Adams with Stafford to create a formidable offensive threat.

DK Metcalf and the Pittsburgh Steelers

The acquisition of DK Metcalf by the Steelers sparks debate. Dan Patrick questions:

"He's going to leave, you'll be broke."
[04:38] - Paul Pabst

While acknowledging Metcalf's talent, concerns are raised about the Steelers' quarterback situation and how Metcalf fits into their broader team dynamics.

Quarterback Situations

Aaron Rodgers and the New York Giants

Aaron Rodgers' potential move to the Giants is a focal point. Dan Patrick muses:

"You would rather have Aaron Rodgers than Russell Wilson at this point."
[32:16] - Dan Patrick

The uncertainty surrounding Rodgers' future and the Giants' quarterback options are thoroughly examined, with speculation on how this could reshape the team's offense.

Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks

Sam Darnold's rumored transition to the Seahawks is discussed, emphasizing the challenges Seattle faces in finding a quarterback that fits its system:

"Are Sam Darnold is going to be the answer?"
[32:12] - Dan Patrick

The hosts debate whether Darnold can replicate his previous successes under different team dynamics.

Russell Wilson and the New York Jets

The possibility of Russell Wilson joining the Jets introduces further quarterback uncertainties. The conversation underscores the complexities teams face in balancing star players and strategic fits.

Team Financial Strategies

Dallas Cowboys and Cincinnati Bengals

A critical examination of the Dallas Cowboys and Cincinnati Bengals' financial strategies reveals issues with delayed payments to star players:

"If you're the team, you want to be the first. If you're the player, you want to be the last."
[34:27] - Paul Pabst

Paul Pabst criticizes these franchises for waiting too long to secure contracts, leading to inflated salaries that strain their financial flexibility.

Buffalo Bills' Proactive Approach

In contrast, the Buffalo Bills' proactive management is praised for maintaining flexibility and player satisfaction:

"Buffalo has been proactive. They were proactive. Now, they don't have to think about this."
[37:48] - Dan Patrick

The discussion highlights how early contract negotiations can prevent cap limitations and foster a positive team environment.

Insights from Judy Battista

NFL Network insider Judy Battista provides valuable perspectives on the offseason moves:

"The Bengals should have done Jamar Chase last year... But they waited, and now it's costing them."
[39:03] - Paul Pabst quoting Judy Battista

Battista emphasizes the importance of timely financial decisions and how delays can lead to significant repercussions for team dynamics and salary caps.

Poll Results: Best Weekend Excluding Josh Allen

A listener poll is conducted to determine who had the best NFL weekend among Gino Smith, Miles Garrett, DK Metcalf, and Devonte Adams. The results are announced as:

• Devonte Adams: 53%
• Miles Garrett: 37.5%

Dan Patrick sums it up:

"Devonte Adams is taking it right now. He got, I think, more than many people thought he was going to get."
[47:40] - Dan Patrick

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dan Patrick and Paul Pabst wrap up the episode by reiterating the complexities of NFL offseason moves and their long-term impacts on team success. Judy Battista's expert insights underscore the necessity of strategic planning and timely decision-making in maintaining competitive advantages.

Notable Quotes:

• "Miles Garrett wanted to go someplace else. They didn't get blown away by anybody... I think he had to say, okay, I'm going to stay, but what are you going to pay me?"
  — Dan Patrick [03:10]

• "Devonte Adams going there. Matthew Stafford's got to be thrilled."
  — Paul Pabst [04:44]

• "You would rather have Aaron Rodgers than Russell Wilson at this point."
  — Dan Patrick [32:16]

• "If you're the team, you want to be the first. If you're the player, you want to be the last."
  — Paul Pabst [34:27]

• "The Bengals should have done Jamar Chase last year... But they waited, and now it's costing them."
  — Judy Battista via Paul Pabst [39:03]

This episode offers a comprehensive examination of the NFL's dynamic offseason, blending expert analysis with engaging discussions to provide listeners with a thorough understanding of the current state of the league.