The Dan Patrick Show: Hour 2 – Josh Allen Doesn't Need More Money
Release Date: March 13, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick
Guest: Tom Pelissero, NFL Network Insider
1. Introduction and Overview
In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick engages in an insightful discussion with NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero. The primary focus centers around Josh Allen’s recent contract extension, the Denver Broncos’ offseason activities, and the ongoing speculation surrounding Aaron Rodgers' future in the NFL. The conversation delves into the intricacies of player contracts, team strategies, and the broader implications for the league.
2. Josh Allen's Record-Breaking Contract Extension
Dan Patrick kicks off the episode by highlighting Josh Allen's significant achievements and his newly signed contract:
- Dan Patrick [02:36]: “Josh Allen just agreed to a six-year, $330 million contract extension, which included an NFL record $250 million in guaranteed money.”
The discussion emphasizes why Allen doesn't seek further financial gains:
- Dan Patrick [13:30]: “When you start getting these fairly big numbers throughout the entire league... what’s five more going to do for my life that I can’t already do right now?”
Tom Pelissero elaborates on Allen’s perspective, noting his contentment with his current earnings and his focus on team success:
- Tom Pelissero [15:29]: “Allen had to tell his agent not to ask for every dollar possible because my guess is the agent's going the opposite way.”
The conversation underscores Allen’s balanced approach to his contract negotiations, prioritizing team dynamics over personal financial gains.
3. Denver Broncos’ Quietly Successful Offseason
Shifting focus to the Denver Broncos, Dan Patrick praises their subdued yet effective offseason strategy:
- Dan Patrick [05:00]: “The Denver Broncos have strengthened their defense quietly... trying to see if they can match or surpass what they did last season where they won 10 games, a playoff team.”
Tom Pelissero agrees, highlighting Denver's focus on essential roster improvements without the fanfare:
- Tom Pelissero [08:00]: “They quietly, they're just quietly trying to see if they can match or surpass what they did last season... It makes everybody better.”
This section emphasizes the Broncos' strategic approach to building a competitive team without relying on high-profile signings.
4. Aaron Rodgers’ Uncertain Future
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Aaron Rodgers and his potential moves within the league:
- Dan Patrick [33:24]: “Tom Pelcerrero, NFL Network Insider... What’s an update on the Aaron Rodgers situation?”
Tom Pelissero delves into the complexities of Rodgers' potential transition:
- Tom Pelissero [33:50]: “If the Vikings called Aaron Rodgers today and said, hey, what do you think about coming and playing Minnesota? Aaron Rodgers would be off that beach with the shawl around his shoulders and be on a plane to Minnesota instantly.”
They explore various scenarios, including the impact of Russell Wilson’s move to Cleveland and how it might open doors for Rodgers:
- Dan Patrick [36:42]: “I don't let Russell Wilson out of the building if I'm Cleveland... We'll see if you can show Pittsburgh.”
The discussion highlights the delicate balance teams must maintain in quarterback acquisitions and the strategic decisions surrounding veteran players like Rodgers.
5. Cooper Kupp’s Career Reflections
The conversation briefly touches upon Cooper Kupp’s career trajectory:
- Tom Pelissero [09:05]: “He won... the greatest receiving year of all time... But, you know, this is where it is in the NFL. You make, you get paid commensurate to what your numbers were and then all of a sudden you can't live up to those numbers and then they cut you.”
Dan Patrick and Tom Pelissero analyze the factors that influence player longevity and team decisions based on performance and health.
6. Team Strategies: Cowboys and Steelers
Further analysis is provided on the strategic moves of the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers:
- Dan Patrick [31:35]: “Jerry Jones wants to prove how smart they are. He is in the draft, free agency... He's never spending money like a college coach who doesn't believe in the transfer portal.”
Tom Pelissero critiques the Cowboys’ cautious approach, contrasting it with the Steelers' proactive strategies:
- Tom Pelissero [27:11]: “The Steelers are being proactive here... If I'm George Pickens and I'm DK Metcalf right now, I definitely want to know who's throwing me the football.”
This segment underscores the differing philosophies between teams in managing rosters and capitalizing on talent acquisitions.
7. Listener Interaction: NBA Player Participation Policy
Dan Patrick welcomes a listener, David from Ohio, who introduces creative terms for the NBA’s player participation policy:
- Dan Patrick [16:28]: “David... The no load rule. Second one is the fans first rule. And my personal favorite is the Showtime rule.”
The discussion humorously examines the policy’s implications and suggests alternative nomenclature to better represent the rules governing player participation.
8. Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the episode concludes, Dan Patrick thanks Tom Pelissero for his insights and teases upcoming interviews with Hall of Famer Steve Young. The conversation wraps up with a reflection on the evolving landscape of NFL contracts and team strategies, leaving listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current state of affairs in professional football.
Key Takeaways
- Josh Allen’s Contract: Represents a balanced approach to athlete compensation, prioritizing team dynamics over personal financial gain.
- Denver Broncos’ Offseason: A model of strategic, understated team building focused on essential improvements.
- Aaron Rodgers’ Situation: Highlights the complexities and strategic decisions surrounding veteran quarterbacks in the NFL.
- Team Strategies: Contrasting the Cowboys’ conservative approach with the Steelers’ proactive maneuvering offers insights into effective team management.
- NBA Policy Interaction: Engages listeners with creative takes on sports policies, enhancing the show’s interactive element.
Notable Quotes
- Dan Patrick [02:36]: “Josh Allen just agreed to a six-year, $330 million contract extension, which included an NFL record $250 million in guaranteed money.”
- Tom Pelissero [15:29]: “Allen had to tell his agent not to ask for every dollar possible because my guess is the agent's going the opposite way.”
- Dan Patrick [33:24]: “What an update on the Aaron Rodgers situation?”
- Tom Pelissero [33:50]: “If the Vikings called Aaron Rodgers today... he would be on a plane to Minnesota instantly.”
- Dan Patrick [31:35]: “Jerry Jones wants to prove how smart they are... He's never spending money like a college coach who doesn't believe in the transfer portal.”
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the pivotal discussions and insights shared during the episode, providing listeners with a clear and detailed understanding of the key topics addressed by Dan Patrick and Tom Pelissero.