Summary of "3 & Out - Best of The Week: Russell Wilson to the Giants, NIL, and Abdul Carter"

The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Host: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Release Date: March 29, 2025

In the third episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the host delves into some of the most pressing topics in the sports world, including Russell Wilson's recent move to the New York Giants, the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in college sports, and the highly anticipated draft prospects of Abdul Carter. This comprehensive discussion offers insightful analysis, critical perspectives, and forecasts that are essential for sports enthusiasts looking to stay informed.

Russell Wilson’s Move to the New York Giants

One of the standout moments of the episode is the analysis of Russell Wilson's signing with the New York Giants. The host expresses a mix of skepticism and concern regarding the quarterback's impact on the Giants' future.

[05:45] Host: "Russell Wilson is much more famous than he is a good player now. While it looked really good early when Tomlin went to the bullpen for him, the version of the guy we saw last year crumbled as the weather changed."

The host highlights the contract details, noting that Wilson will receive approximately $15 million in guaranteed money over two years, signaling a bridge contract intended to stabilize the team’s quarterback situation. However, doubts are raised about Wilson's current performance levels compared to his peak years.

[10:22] Host: "Russell Wilson is not fixing much. The Pittsburgh Steelers with Aaron Rodgers—is Rodgers an upgrade over their quarterback situation? I don't think so."

The discussion extends to the Giants' overall roster and coaching dynamics, suggesting that while Wilson brings experience, his current form may not substantially elevate the team's prospects. The host anticipates that Wilson will likely be the starting quarterback for the upcoming season, aligning with the Giants' desperate moves to secure a reliable leader on the field.

The Impact of NIL on College Sports

Transitioning to the collegiate scene, the host examines the ramifications of NIL agreements on the competitiveness and financial structures of college sports programs. The conversation underscores the disparities emerging between Power 4 conferences and smaller institutions.

[15:30] Host: "When you look at why the little guys are struggling, NIL plays a significant role. The top programs are securing consistent revenue streams, making it increasingly difficult for smaller schools to compete."

The host argues that NIL has exacerbated the financial divide, allowing major programs to offer more lucrative deals to athletes, thereby attracting top talent and consolidating their dominance. This shift potentially diminishes the opportunities for athletes at lesser-known schools, as the allure of substantial NIL deals sways decisions away from traditional scholarship-based incentives.

The Transfer Portal and Its Effects

Complementing the discussion on NIL, the host explores the transformative impact of the transfer portal on college athletics. The ability for athletes to move between schools without mandatory sitting out periods has revolutionized team compositions and talent distribution.

[20:10] Host: "The transfer portal allowed players to switch schools seamlessly, which means that top talents are no longer confined to their initial institutions. This mobility has led to a more dynamic and competitive environment but also raises questions about team loyalty and long-term program stability."

The host reflects on personal experiences and broader trends, emphasizing how the transfer portal has democratized athlete movement but also contributed to increased instability within college programs, as teams constantly adjust their rosters in pursuit of immediate success.

Abdul Carter’s Draft Prospects Amidst Medical Concerns

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to scrutinizing Abdul Carter’s prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. The host meticulously analyzes Carter's on-field performance juxtaposed with his off-field medical issues, presenting a nuanced view of his potential trajectory.

[25:55] Host: "Abdul Carter is an excellent prospect by all accounts, akin to Travis Hunter in terms of talent. However, his inability to work out at the combine due to foot and shoulder issues casts uncertainties over his draft status."

The discussion delves into how medical evaluations play a critical role in draft decisions, with teams heavily relying on medical teams to assess the true extent of Carter's injuries. The host points out the challenges front offices face in balancing a player's undeniable talent against potential long-term health risks.

[35:40] Host: "When Abdul Carter is facing a shoulder injury and a stress fracture in his right foot, front offices are in a precarious position. They must depend on medical assessments that can be anything but concrete, making it difficult to gauge Carter's future performance and durability."

The host also touches upon the broader implications for scouting and talent evaluation, suggesting that Carter's situation exemplifies the delicate interplay between athletic prowess and physical health in professional sports recruitment.

Concluding Insights and Future Implications

Wrapping up the episode, the host synthesizes the discussions, offering forward-looking perspectives on how these developments might shape the future of both professional and collegiate sports.

[40:15] Host: "The signing of Russell Wilson, the ongoing evolution of NIL, and the complexities surrounding Abdul Carter's draft prospects are all indicative of a sports landscape in flux. Teams and athletes alike must navigate these changes with strategic foresight to achieve sustained success."

The episode concludes with a reflection on the interconnectedness of these topics, emphasizing the need for adaptability and informed decision-making in an ever-evolving sports ecosystem.

Notable Quotes with Speaker Attribution:

• Host [05:45]: "Russell Wilson is much more famous than he is a good player now."

• Host [10:22]: "Russell Wilson is not fixing much."

• Host [15:30]: "When you look at why the little guys are struggling, NIL plays a significant role."

• Host [20:10]: "The transfer portal allowed players to switch schools seamlessly."

• Host [25:55]: "Abdul Carter is an excellent prospect by all accounts, akin to Travis Hunter in terms of talent."

• Host [35:40]: "When Abdul Carter is facing a shoulder injury and a stress fracture in his right foot, front offices are in a precarious position."

• Host [40:15]: "The signing of Russell Wilson, the ongoing evolution of NIL, and the complexities surrounding Abdul Carter's draft prospects are all indicative of a sports landscape in flux."

This episode of The Herd provides a critical examination of key sports developments, offering listeners a deep dive into the strategic movements within the NFL and the transformative shifts in college athletics. Colin Cowherd's insightful commentary ensures that fans are well-equipped to understand and engage with the evolving dynamics of the sports world.