Summary of "The Dan Patrick Show" Episode: Hour 3 – Steelers Bought-In, Guaranteed Contracts

Release Date: July 18, 2025

1. Introduction

The third hour of The Dan Patrick Show delves deep into recent NFL developments, with a particular focus on the Pittsburgh Steelers' strategic moves and the evolving landscape of player contracts. Hosted by LaVar Arrington, Brady Quinn, Jonas Knox, Ian Pfaff, and Bob Crawford, the panel engages in lively discussions, offering insights and opinions on the current state of the league.

2. NFL Updates

Scotty Scheffler’s Open Championship Incident

At [03:40], the panel discusses Scotty Scheffler's unexpected disruption during the Open Championship:

• Ian Pfaff: "Scotty Scheffler apparently cut a fart during a backswing that we discussed actually the follow through."
• Bob Crawford adds humorously, "Quality fart. Really, really pushed it out."

Lloyd Howell Steps Down as NFLPA President

Transitioning to player representation, the show highlights Lloyd Howell's resignation:

• Ian Pfaff: "We also talked about Lloyd Howell stepping down as NFLPA president."
• Bob Crawford: "He’s walking away now and then."

T.J. Watt’s Contract Extension

The discussion moves to T.J. Watt's significant contract:

• Ian Pfaff: "TJ Watt getting his deal done—a three-year, $123 million extension. He's getting $41 million a year, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history."
• Bob Crawford: "Which just shows how far the market has grown, considering he was making around $20 million a year previously."

3. Pittsburgh Steelers and Aaron Rodgers

Acquisition of Aaron Rodgers

A major segment focuses on the Steelers' acquisition of quarterback Aaron Rodgers:

• LaVar Arrington: "It just felt like he was bought in and you know, it worked out for the best... he’s a Pittsburgh Steeler and just walking through the locker room asking questions."
• Ian Pfaff: "We are going to take you all the way up until the end of this hour... we talked about how he gets along with teammates."

Team Culture and Integration

The panel examines how Rodgers fits into the Steelers' culture:

• Bob Crawford: "He's a deeper guy, analyzes everything, and takes it all in. He’s one of the most talented quarterbacks the league has seen."
• LaVar Arrington: "Cam Hayward is addressing a bigger issue by narrowing it down to saying that one is buying in..."

Quotes Highlighting Team Dynamics

• Bob Crawford at [08:35]: "I think he's a deeper guy... when he's playing at a high level, it's like an art."
• LaVar Arrington at [05:15]: "I'm excited to go work with him."

4. Team Culture and Potential Dysfunction

Criticism Within the Organization

There is significant discussion about internal criticism and possible dysfunction within the Steelers:

• LaVar Arrington: "Do they still have that mentality? Do they still have that culture as an organization?"
• Bob Crawford: "They seem willing to admit mistakes and move on, which is hard to uphold without a strong offensive personality like Ben Roethlisberger."

Impact on Team Performance

The panel debates how internal issues may affect the team's performance:

• LaVar Arrington: "Some would say Pittsburgh is a dysfunctional organization right now."
• Bob Crawford: "The offense is a concern without a strong quarterback figure, impacting defensive accountability."

5. Guaranteed Contracts and Second-Round Picks

Trend of Less Guaranteed Contracts

A detailed analysis is provided on the trend of second-round draft picks accepting fewer guaranteed contracts:

• Ian Pfaff: "Everybody's falling in line, accepting less than guaranteed contracts throughout the second round."
• LaVar Arrington: "I’d say Quinshon Judkins is not going to get a guaranteed contract."

Role of Agents and Player Decisions

The discussion touches on the influence of agents and player preferences:

• Bob Crawford at [35:54]: "Agents have to try harder to create value, like getting full guarantees."
• Ian Pfaff: "Training camp's right around the corner, so who knows..."

Impact on Future Negotiations

The panel speculates on how this trend might influence future contracts:

• Bob Crawford at [38:50]: "Most aren't willing to sacrifice for their own good or the future players' deals."
• LaVar Arrington: "These contracts have become slotted, impacting how players approach negotiations."

6. Possible Coaching Changes and Future Prospects

Mike Tomlin’s Tenure

Speculation arises regarding the future of head coach Mike Tomlin:

• LaVar Arrington at [23:14]: "If they don’t have a successful season, it could possibly have been Tomlin's last year."
• Bob Crawford: "It's tough without a strong quarterback presence like Tomlin’s previous era."

Potential Succession Plan

The panel discusses potential successors if coaching changes occur:

• LaVar Arrington: "They may be buying time for Will Howard to be the next franchise quarterback."
• Ian Pfaff: "It will be interesting if they can have success this year."

7. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a blend of sports commentary and light-hearted banter, highlighting the complexities of team dynamics, contract negotiations, and the ever-evolving nature of the NFL. The panel remains cautiously optimistic about the Steelers' direction while acknowledging the challenges ahead.

Notable Closing Remarks:

• LaVar Arrington at [25:37]: "Those are some strong personalities all on one team right now."
• Bob Crawford at [54:10]: "It's Lee's Leftovers..."

Key Takeaways

• Aaron Rodgers' Integration: Rodgers is seen as a highly talented addition to the Steelers, bringing both skill and a deep analytical approach to the team.

• Team Culture Concerns: Despite potential dysfunction, the Steelers show a willingness to admit mistakes and adapt, though the absence of a strong quarterback figure remains a concern.

• Guaranteed Contracts Trend: Second-round picks are trendily accepting fewer guaranteed contracts, influenced by player choices and agent strategies, potentially affecting future negotiations.

• Coaching Future: Mike Tomlin's future with the Steelers may hinge on the upcoming season's success, with discussions about potential successors ongoing.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ian Pfaff [03:40]: "Scotty Scheffler apparently cut a fart during a backswing that we discussed actually the follow through."

• LaVar Arrington [05:15]: "I'm excited to go work with him."

• Bob Crawford [08:35]: "When he's playing at a high level, it's like an art."

• LaVar Arrington [23:14]: "If they don’t have a successful season, it could possibly have been Tomlin's last year."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the third hour of The Dan Patrick Show, providing listeners and readers with a clear understanding of the key discussions and insights shared by the panel.