The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Episode 3 Summary

Episode Title: Out - Bengals Franchise Higgins, Jets and Adams Looking to Split, Deebo Lands on DC
Release Date: March 4, 2025
Host: John Middelkopf
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Bengals Franchise Tag and Team Dynamics

Timestamp: [05:20]

John Middelkopf delves into the Cincinnati Bengals' strategic use of franchise tags, particularly focusing on Joe Burrow and Tevin Higgins. Middelkopf emphasizes the importance of securing foundational players to maintain team stability and competitiveness.

• Joe Burrow's Franchise Tag:
  Middelkopf highlights Burrow’s critical role, stating, "Joe Burrow has held their feet to the fire. I think he's doing it not because he views himself like an NBA player, but because he knows you can't trust this operation" ([05:35]).

• Tevin Higgins vs. Jamar Chase:
  The discussion shifts to the Bengals' dilemma between extending Higgins and retaining star wide receiver Jamar Chase. Middelkopf anticipates a likely long-term extension for Higgins, given his importance to the team's offense. Conversely, Chase's hefty contract demands are scrutinized, with Middelkopf predicting a split, favoring Higgins to maintain offensive synergy.

• Andrew Whitworth's Perspective:
  Middelkopf references former player Andrew Whitworth, who opined that the Bengals could have reached Super Bowl heights with players like Andy Dalton and Carson Palmer. This underscores the franchise's historical approach to player acquisition and management ([08:10]).

2. Deebo Samuel's Trade to DC Commanders

Timestamp: [12:45]

A significant portion of the episode centers on the blockbuster trade involving Deebo Samuel moving from the San Francisco 49ers to the Washington Commanders.

• Trade Evaluation:
  Middelkopf argues that the Commanders undervalued Samuel, acquiring him for a fifth-round pick. He asserts, "You can get Deebo Samuel under a cost control contract for a fifth-round pick. If it works out great, we're in good shape. If it doesn't, it costs me a 5th round pick and some money" ([15:10]).

• Impact on the 49ers and Commanders:
  For the 49ers, the move is portrayed as a calculated risk, freeing up cap space without significantly harming their offensive options. Conversely, Middelkopf is skeptical about Samuel's long-term fit with Washington, speculating, "they are going to cut Deebo Adams because of his cap number. Nobody is trading for him" ([19:25]).

• Philadelphia's Trade for Darius Slay:
  Comparing Commanders' misstep with the Commanders' trade for Devonte Adams against Philadelphia's successful acquisition of Darius Slay, Middelkopf notes the former’s failure to enhance team performance, whereas the latter bolstered Philadelphia’s defensive lineup effectively ([21:40]).

3. Sean McVay and Jimmy Garoppolo Controversy

Timestamp: [27:15]

Middelkopf critiques Rams' head coach Sean McVay's strategy regarding Jimmy Garoppolo. He argues that starting Garoppolo isn’t a viable long-term solution and likens it to the pitfalls faced by other backup quarterbacks.

• Backup Quarterback Strategy:
  He states, "I think Jimmy Garoppolo is in that sweet spot... but the difference between Jimmy Garoppolo and a lifetime backup is that Garoppolo has been a starter. You feel more comfortable with him as a backup" ([28:30]).

• Potential Risks:
  Middelkopf warns about the risks of relying on Garoppolo, especially if Garoppolo underperforms or gets injured, leaving the team scrambling with potentially less experienced backups ([30:50]).

4. Listener Mailbag Highlights

Timestamp: [35:00]

In the mailbag segment, Middelkopf addresses various listener questions, offering insights into draft strategies, player evaluations, and NFL business dynamics.

• Shador Sanders’ Draft Interview Conduct:
  Responding to criticism of Shador Sanders' demeanor during interviews, Middelkopf emphasizes the importance of humility and professionalism for quarterbacks entering the draft. He asserts, "Part of being a quarterback is leadership... you have to conduct yourself impeccably in these meetings" ([36:20]).

• Mel Kuiper’s Credibility in Front Offices:
  A listener inquires about Mel Kuiper's reputation among NFL front office personnel. Middelkopf defends Kuiper, noting his long-standing presence in football media and his genuine efforts to analyze players, albeit with occasional controversial takes ([39:15]).

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Super Bowl Potential:
  Addressing questions about the Buccaneers, Middelkopf assesses their roster, highlighting the strengths of Baker Mayfield and Vita Vea. He expresses cautious optimism about their chances but notes areas needing improvement, particularly on defense ([42:50]).

• Quarterback Contract Trends:
  Discussing the possibility of NFL quarterbacks securing MLB-like contracts, Middelkopf opines that while some may aspire to longer, more lucrative deals, the majority prefer shorter contracts with guaranteed performance, citing Patrick Mahomes as an outlier ([45:30]).

• Cincinnati Bengals’ Future Draft Strategy:
  A listener asks for advice on the Bengals' upcoming draft. Middelkopf advises focusing on the trenches, emphasizing the importance of a strong offensive and defensive line. He underscores that impactful players at these positions can significantly influence team performance ([48:00]).

5. Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Timestamp: [50:10]

Concluding the episode, Middelkopf reiterates the necessity for teams to make strategic decisions that prioritize long-term success over short-term gains. He encourages listeners to stay informed and engaged with team strategies, particularly during the offseason and draft periods.

Notable Quotes:

• [05:35]: "Joe Burrow has held their feet to the fire. I think he's doing it not because he views himself like an NBA player, but because he knows you can't trust this operation."

• [15:10]: "You can get Deebo Samuel under a cost control contract for a fifth-round pick. If it works out great, we're in good shape. If it doesn't, it costs me a 5th round pick and some money."

• [28:30]: "I think Jimmy Garoppolo is in that sweet spot... but the difference between Jimmy Garoppolo and a lifetime backup is that Garoppolo has been a starter. You feel more comfortable with him as a backup."

• [36:20]: "Part of being a quarterback is leadership... you have to conduct yourself impeccably in these meetings."

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a comprehensive analysis of recent NFL transactions and team strategies, with a particular emphasis on the Cincinnati Bengals' management decisions and the controversial trade of Deebo Samuel. John Middelkopf provides insightful commentary, blending statistical analysis with seasoned opinion to deliver a valuable listen for NFL enthusiasts.

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