The Dan Patrick Show – Episode Summary
Title: Hour 1 – Miles Garrett DENIED, Trey Hendrickson Trade Opportunities
Release Date: March 7, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

1. Myles Garrett's Trade Request and Jimmy Haslam's Response

The episode delves deeply into the ongoing saga of Cleveland Browns' star defensive end, Myles Garrett. Garrett has formally requested a meeting with the Browns' owner, Jimmy Haslam, to discuss potential trade opportunities. However, Haslam has declined Garrett’s request, opting instead to involve the General Manager in the discussions.

Ross Tucker highlights the management's stance:

Ross Tucker [09:26]: "The reason Jimmy Haslam, the owner of the Browns, will not meet with Garrett, he said his GM can handle it. That's the GM's job. And you could go through the GM, which does that kind of make sense? Like, why do you get to step up past the GM?"

Paulie, reflecting on the situation, expresses concern over the owner's refusal:

Paulie [09:44]: "Miles Garrett just wants Jimmy Haslam to acknowledge him and hear where he's coming from. The fact that Haslam won't even give him that opportunity, I feel like that's the type of thing that could get Miles even more worked up."

The discussion raises critical questions about the appropriateness of Haslam's decision to bypass direct communication with Garrett, potentially affecting the player's sentiment and future with the team.

2. Fan Reactions and Social Media Backlash

The episode addresses the negative sentiment among fans toward Jimmy Haslam's handling of Garrett's trade request. Many fans perceive Haslam’s refusal to meet directly as dismissive, fueling frustration and damaging the owner's reputation.

Paulie [15:13]: "This isn't playing well on social media for the Browns and Jimmy Haslam. Everyone is reporting on this, talking about this, this morning, and Jimmy Haslam's not exactly the most beloved owner in the sport."

Tucker provides a counterpoint by suggesting that some fans might understand the managerial hierarchy:

Ross Tucker [16:01]: "They’re not on the owner side. They’re on the team side."

However, the general consensus leans towards frustration with the management's approach, emphasizing the need for better communication channels between ownership and star players.

3. Comparison with Bengals' Trey Hendrickson Trade Opportunities

Shifting focus, the hosts compare Garrett's situation with that of Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals' leading pass rusher. Unlike Garrett, Hendrickson was granted permission by Bengals' ownership to seek a trade, highlighting a potential inconsistency in how top players are treated.

Paulie [12:41]: "And then meanwhile, you know, for the Bengals, Trey Hendrickson, who led the NFL in sacks by three and a half, he was given the opportunity to meet with ownership. He met with ownership and management yesterday and they gave him permission to find a trade."

This comparison underscores differing management styles and raises questions about favoritism or strategic decision-making within NFL front offices.

4. Contract Negotiations and Team Strategy

The conversation broadens to discuss the Bengals' contract strategies, particularly concerning their elite players—Jalen Hurts and Joe Burrow—both of whom secured substantial contracts exceeding $50 million annually in 2023. Despite these contracts, the Bengals have shown reluctance in extending deals to other key players, citing financial constraints.

Paulie [25:22]: "But they are in this situation because they chose to be in this situation. And if you're a Bengals fan, okay, you have elite players at the three highest paid positions in football. Quarterback, receiver, and edge rusher. It's a blessing. It's a gift."

Paulie criticizes the Bengals' management for not acting proactively in securing contracts for players like Tyreek Hill or Ja'Marr Chase earlier, suggesting that delayed negotiations have led to current financial challenges.

Paulie [29:16]: "They could have gotten the T. Higgins or Chase deal done a year ago. They could have gotten either one of those done during the season. They could have extended Hendrickson earlier."

This segment highlights the delicate balance teams must maintain between honoring star players and managing payroll effectively to sustain long-term competitiveness.

5. Broader Implications for Team Management

The hosts explore the broader implications of ownership decisions on team dynamics and player relations. Emphasizing the importance of respecting the chain of command, Tucker defends the GM's role in handling trade and contract negotiations without direct owner intervention.

Ross Tucker [17:02]: "I have a GM, and they have a job to do, and you respect that guy. You go talk to him. I'm not going to bigfoot him."

Conversely, Paulie argues for the value of owners engaging directly with star players to foster loyalty and address concerns, suggesting that bypassing such interactions can lead to disenchantment and potential loss of key talent.

6. NBA Discussions: Steph Curry's Shooting and Charles Barkley vs. Kendrick Perkins

In addition to NFL topics, the episode briefly touches on NBA-related discussions, including Steph Curry’s extraordinary shooting performance and a contentious exchange between Charles Barkley and Kendrick Perkins on social media.

Regarding Curry, the hosts marvel at his shooting prowess, citing a remarkable half-court shot that exemplifies his skill and dedication:

Paulie [47:50]: "What do we have any poll question ideas?... A, A bracelet, and I want you to say WWHD on the bracelet. What would. How we do. What would Howie Roseman do?"

The exchange between Barkley and Perkins centers on Barkley's criticism of a pundit he identifies as Perkins, leading to a heated back-and-forth on Twitter.

Paulie [35:25]: "Charles Barkley, Stephen A. Smith or other. So that show, you know, that Stephen A's on, people are tuning in for him. Which is why I always think is a little bit interesting with the color commentators for football."

This segment underscores the show's commitment to covering a wide range of sports topics, engaging listeners with current debates and memorable performances.

7. Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

The episode concludes with teasers for upcoming segments, including analysis of contract negotiations, insights into the NHL trade deadline, and predictions for the NFL Draft. The hosts encourage listener engagement through phone calls, social media interactions, and participation in poll questions.

Notable Quotes:

• Ross Tucker [09:26]: "The reason Jimmy Haslam, the owner of the Browns, will not meet with Garrett, he said his GM can handle it. That's the GM's job."

• Paulie [09:44]: "Miles Garrett just wants Jimmy Haslam to acknowledge him and hear where he's coming from."

• Paulie [12:41]: "Trey Hendrickson...they gave him permission to find a trade."

• Paulie [25:22]: "Every other team wants to have this problem. Trey Hendrickson is going to get traded, and he's going to get $30 million a year from someone else."

• Ross Tucker [17:02]: "You have a GM, and they have a job to do, and you respect that guy. You go talk to him. I'm not going to bigfoot him."

• Paulie [35:25]: "Steph's making 21 shots from 30ft and beyond this season. Only Trey Young with 25 has made more."

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a comprehensive analysis of pivotal NFL trade dynamics, management strategies, and touches upon significant NBA discussions, providing listeners with in-depth insights and engaging debates.