Podcast Summary: 2025 NFL Draft: Instant First Round Reactions (Ep. 1560)
The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Release Date: April 25, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In episode 1560 of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the panel dives deep into the exhilarating first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Hosted by Joe P. Zapia alongside experts Pat Morris, Derek Brown, Ryan Warmley, and Scott Bogman, the discussion provides instant reactions, in-depth analysis, and fantasy football insights on the top picks and surprising selections of the night.

Top Pick: Cam Ward to Tennessee Titans

Timestamp: 03:30

The episode opens with a unanimous consensus that Cam Ward is the likely first overall pick. Joe P. Zapia highlights Ward's impressive collegiate stats, including leading the FCS with 24 passing touchdowns and earning the ACC Player of the Year award.

Notable Quote: Pat Morris (03:30): "They are hoping he can be their new Steve McNair and carry the torch for the franchise. He has all the tools to be an above-average NFL starter, but he needs to refine his decision-making to avoid holding the record book for being the first pick in a shuffle."

Fantasy Insight: Derek Brown expresses skepticism about Ward's fit with the Titans, questioning whether he can elevate the team's offense effectively.

Surprise Selection: Travis Hunter to Jacksonville Jaguars

Timestamp: 05:48

One of the night's biggest surprises is Travis Hunter being selected second overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Hunter's versatility as both a wide receiver and cornerback makes this pick particularly intriguing.

Notable Quote: Derek Brown (05:48): "I think this is 150% Travis Hunter. They likely moved up for him because his defensive talents provide immediate impact, especially given their linebacker and cornerback needs."

Fantasy Insight: Joe P. Zapia discusses the potential for Hunter to be a dual-threat in fantasy leagues, while Pat Morris remains cautious about his long-term fit in Jacksonville.

Key Round One Picks

Timestamp: 07:57 - 17:38

The panel dissects several notable first-round selections:

1. Ashton Genti to Las Vegas Raiders

   • Performance: Led NCAA with 2,600 rushing yards.
   • Fantasy Value: Positioned as a top-five running back with significant pass-catching upside.

   Notable Quote: Derek Brown (11:03): "Ashton Genti should absolutely be a first-round pick in fantasy drafts and ranked as a top five running back. His dual-threat ability makes him a valuable asset."

2. Ted McMillan to Carolina Panthers

   • Performance: 84 receptions, 8 touchdowns last season.
   • Fantasy Value: Mixed opinions with emphasis on his potential role as the Panthers' primary wide receiver.

   Notable Quote: Joe P. Zapia (15:23): "Ted McMillan can be an unquestioned alpha wide receiver for Carolina, providing stability to Bryce Young's passing game."

3. Colston Loveland to Chicago Bears

   • Performance: Promising tight end with good pass-catching skills.
   • Fantasy Value: Viewed as a potential breakout player in a revamped Bears offense.

   Notable Quote: Pat Morris (19:19): "Loveland has a lot of potential as a pass-catching tight end and maybe some blocking upside, making him a valuable addition to the Bears."

4. Tyler Warren to Indianapolis Colts

   • Performance: 104 receptions, school record holder.
   • Fantasy Value: High impact due to his versatility and athleticism in the Colts' offense.

   Notable Quote: Andrew Erickson (26:42): "Tyler Warren's ability to play multiple roles in the offense makes him a game-changer for the Colts and a valuable fantasy contributor."

Winners and Losers of Round One

Timestamp: 51:25 - 53:51

The panel evaluates the overall impact of first-round picks:

Winners:

• Ashton Genti (Raiders): Perfect landing spot with a run-heavy offense.
• Ted McMillan (Panthers): Provides immediate offensive weapons to a team struggling defensively.
• Travis Hunter (Jaguars): Versatile defensive and offensive capabilities.

Losers:

• Tyler Warren (Colts): While talented, concerns about the Colts' quarterback play and offensive stability.
• Colston Loveland (Bears): Uncertainty around his role in a revamped Bears offense.
• Matthew Golden (Packers): Criticism over the Packers' decision to select him, questioning his fit and projected volume.

Notable Trades and Team Strategies

Timestamp: 54:05 - 56:21

The discussion shifts to strategic moves and trades:

• Jaguars-Browns Trade: Analysis of the Jaguars acquiring Travis Hunter and the implications for both teams.
• Packers’ Selection of Matthew Golden: Debated as a potentially ill-advised pick given their existing wide receiver depth.

Notable Quote: Joe P. Zapia (56:11): "Brian Gudekinst is just a mediocre general manager. It was a bad pick."

• Expressing strong disapproval of the Packers' decision.

Biggest Surprises and Undrafted Gems

Timestamp: 56:21 - 59:36

The panel reflects on unexpected outcomes:

• Shador Not Drafted in Round One: Derek Brown expresses surprise over Shador not being selected early, highlighting his collegiate achievements.

Notable Quote: Pat Morris (56:26): "Mike Green had 17 sacks for Marshall last year. It's baffling he wasn't drafted in round one."

Closing Thoughts

Timestamp: 59:36 - End

Wrapping up, the panel anticipates the continuation of draft coverage, emphasizing the excitement and unpredictability of the remaining rounds. They invite listeners to join the live stream for second and third-round reactions and to stay engaged with future analysis on team needs, player potentials, and fantasy football impacts.

Conclusion

Episode 1560 of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a comprehensive and spirited analysis of the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The experts provide valuable insights into team strategies, player potentials, and fantasy implications, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts and fantasy football players alike.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Pat Morris (03:30):
  "They are hoping he can be their new Steve McNair and carry the torch for the franchise..."

• Derek Brown (05:48):
  "I think this is 150% Travis Hunter. They likely moved up for him because his defensive talents provide immediate impact..."

• Joe P. Zapia (15:23):
  "Ted McMillan can be an unquestioned alpha wide receiver for Carolina..."

• Andrew Erickson (26:42):
  "Tyler Warren's ability to play multiple roles in the offense makes him a game-changer for the Colts..."

• Pat Morris (56:26):
  "Mike Green had 17 sacks for Marshall last year. It's baffling he wasn't drafted in round one."

This summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, highlighting key discussions, analyses, and expert opinions without the interruptions of advertisements and non-content segments.