Podcast Summary: The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 3: Where Will Cooper Kupp Go? Featuring Mike Tannenbaum
Release Date: March 14, 2025

In this engaging episode of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick delves deep into the NFL's free agency frenzy, focusing primarily on the potential destinations for superstar wide receiver Cooper Kupp and quarterback Carson Wentz. Featuring expert insights from former NFL General Manager Mike Tannenbaum, the discussion navigates through team strategies, player performances, and the intricate dynamics influencing major signings.

1. The Future of Cooper Kupp: Potential Seattle Seahawks Destination

Dan Patrick opens the conversation by exploring the buzz surrounding Cooper Kupp’s next move in the NFL. Initial reports suggested that the Dallas Cowboys were interested in signing the prolific receiver. However, these rumors were swiftly debunked within a short span, leading the panel to consider other viable options.

"I think he was making $20 million with the Rams, but maybe you get a bargain there," Dan Patrick remarks, highlighting the financial aspects that might influence Kupp’s decision. The show leans towards the Seattle Seahawks as the most probable destination for Kupp, citing geographical loyalty and the Seahawks' current need for a dynamic receiver.

Former GM Mike Tannenbaum adds weight to this speculation, emphasizing the Seahawks’ strategic fit for Kupp’s talents. "You could put him in there, maybe get a couple years with Cooper Kupp. You could do worse," Tannenbaum asserts at [25:45], underscoring the Seahawks' potential to maximize Kupp’s abilities within their offensive scheme.

2. Comparing Cooper Kupp to NFL Legends

The discussion transitions to comparing Kupp’s stellar performance to NFL legends, notably Jerry Rice. Dan and the panel debate whether Kupp’s achievements could rival some of the greatest seasons in receiver history.

"Cooper Kupp had the greatest year a wide receiver ever had," contends Tannenbaum at [32:10], bringing up Kupp’s impressive statistics reminiscent of Rice’s legendary seasons. The conversation delves into the nuances of Kupp’s gameplay, his work ethic, and his impact on team dynamics, painting a picture of a receiver poised to leave a lasting legacy.

3. Carson Wentz's Uncertain Free Agency: A Possible Move to the Titans

Shifting focus to quarterback Carson Wentz, Dan Patrick discusses Wentz’s tumultuous journey through multiple teams over the past few years. The sentiment is clear: "This won't be his last stop," Dan muses at [40:20], reflecting on the quarterback’s recurring challenges and speculating on his potential landing spot.

Listener Fritzi suggests the Tennessee Titans as a plausible destination for Wentz, considering their need for a reliable quarterback. The panel debates the Titans’ capability to effectively integrate Wentz into their system, weighing his experience against the team’s existing quarterbacking options.

4. Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers: Hostage Situation or Minnesota’s Influence?

A central theme of the episode is the controversy surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ potential signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Former GM Doug Whaley expresses his concerns, suggesting that Rodgers might be "holding the whole franchise hostage" at [55:30]. This sparks a heated debate among the hosts.

Mike Tannenbaum offers a counter-perspective, arguing that it's actually the Minnesota Vikings exerting undue influence on the Steelers rather than Rodgers himself. "If you're the Steelers, you just traded for DK Metcalf... but Aaron Rodgers gives us a chance to get to where we want to go," Tannenbaum explains at [1:05:10], indicating that external factors from Minnesota are complicating the Steelers' decision-making process.

Tannenbaum further elaborates on the Steelers' predicament, suggesting that the team should set clear deadlines for Rodgers to make his decision or explore alternative options like signing Russell Wilson. "If you have a backup player who's making 1/20 of a starter, which happens a lot in our system because of the salary cap, you have to plan accordingly," he advises at [1:12:45].

5. NFL Quarterback Strategies and Team Stability

The conversation broadens to examine how different NFL teams approach quarterback acquisitions and stability. The Cleveland Browns' strategy with quarterbacks like Jameis Winston and Kirk Cousins is scrutinized, highlighting the importance of consistency and optionality in a team's offensive lineup.

"They're just looking for stability and that's what Russell Wilson brings," Patrick notes at [1:20:00], discussing how teams balance seasoned talent with emerging stars to maintain a competitive edge.

6. March Madness and Sports Odds

A brief interlude touches upon the upcoming March Madness and associated odds. The show references DraftKings’ updated probabilities for the ACC tournament, noting changes in favorites due to recent injuries like Cooper Kupp’s.

7. Listener Interactions: Personal Stories and Fun Banter

Throughout the episode, Dan Patrick maintains an engaging rapport with listeners, addressing personal stories and light-hearted topics. Notably, a listener named Josh requests a birthday shout-out for his wife, Fabienne, which the hosts warmly fulfill in French, "Joyeux anniversaire," fostering a sense of community and connection.

Another listener, Dylan, shares heartfelt tributes to his late grandmother and seeks advice on baby naming, leading to amusing discussions about vintage names like Bertha and Gerald. These segments add a personable touch to the show, balancing the intense sports analysis with relatable human moments.

8. Final Thoughts: Poll Results and Sports Trivia

As the episode nears its end, the hosts reveal the results of a poll question: “Is the Patrick Mahomes backup job a fantastic gig or not?” With 75% of listeners deeming it a great opportunity, the discussion veers into the realities of being a backup quarterback in the NFL, highlighting the challenges and benefits of such roles.

Additionally, the show features a “Stat of the Day” segment, celebrating sports milestones and trivia, further enriching the content with educational and entertaining snippets.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick [25:45]: "You could put him [Cooper Kupp] in there, maybe get a couple years with Cooper Kupp. You could do worse."

• Mike Tannenbaum [32:10]: "Cooper Kupp had the greatest year a wide receiver ever had."

• Dan Patrick [40:20]: "This won't be his last stop."

• Doug Whaley [55:30]: "He's going to hold the whole franchise hostage."

• Mike Tannenbaum [1:05:10]: "If you're the Steelers, you just traded for DK Metcalf... but Aaron Rodgers gives us a chance to get to where we want to go."

• Dan Patrick [1:12:45]: "If you have a backup player who's making 1/20 of a starter... you have to plan accordingly."

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a comprehensive exploration of current NFL free agency movements, particularly focusing on Cooper Kupp’s potential move to the Seahawks and the complex quarterback scenarios involving Carson Wentz and Aaron Rodgers. With expert analysis from Mike Tannenbaum and lively interactions with listeners, Dan Patrick delivers a balanced mix of in-depth sports discussion and engaging, community-driven content. Whether you're a die-hard NFL fan or a casual follower, this episode provides valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of professional football.