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Mark Wahlberg
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Chris Pratt
Hey guys, Mark Wahlberg here. You've heard me say it before, but I'm going to say it again. You guys have to check out Hallow. This Lent we are doing something really powerful. It's a 40 day prayer challenge for every day of Lent with Jonathan, Roomie, Father Mike Schmitz, and of course yours truly. We are going through the incredible book the Way by St. Jose Maria Scriva. And I, along with my buddy Chris Pratt, will lead us through weekly fasting challenges. Join me and millions of others around the world praying every day this lent. Stay, stay prayed up and God bless you.
Julie Stewart-Banks
What's up everyone? Julius Ripps here, along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.
Mark Wahlberg
We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.
Julie Stewart-Banks
The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.
Mark Wahlberg
Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?
Julie Stewart-Banks
Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.
Mark Wahlberg
Julie is pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.
Julie Stewart-Banks
Listen to EnergyLine with Nate and JSB on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Will Smith
Hey Will, do you ever get overwhelmed by how much science happens these days? Constantly. I'm like, ah, there's so much science, I can't keep track of it all. Then it's a good thing our podcast part time genius is counting down the 25 greatest science ideas from the past 25 years. That's right, Mango. We're talking animals in a paper called, quote, chickens prefer beautiful humans. This was actually the title of the paper. They all discovered that, much like humans, chickens are attracted to symmetrical faces.
Mark Wahlberg
Got it.
Will Smith
We're talking medical miracles. He's an endocrinologist who found a way to stimulate insulin producing cells using, wait for it, the saliva of a Gila monster. There's no way to make that not sound crazy. We even talked to some of the experts behind these breakthroughs. It's a week full of fact packed stories. You won't want to Miss So listen to the part time Genius countdown of the 25 greatest science ideas of the past 25 years starting Monday, March 3rd on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Mark Wahlberg
The volume. What is going on everybody? How are we doing? I'm up in a high rise in Nashville getting married in a couple days and didn't know if I was going to be able to do a podcast because in the other room your boy might have got a sweet. Got a splurge a little. This only happens ideally once in your life. There's a makeup tutorial going out there for her. So I was like, where am I going to do this podcast? And I looked around the hotel, you know, hotel even. There's just nowhere to do it. And there's conference going on in this one area in the restaurant. I might have been able to do it had music going on over the loudspeaker. I'm like, I don't think this is gonna work. And there's so much going on. There's trades happening, contract extensions happening. I'm like, there's a will, there's a way. And Maria's like, just take a couple days off, you're getting married. I'm like, I'm a podcaster and we can expense this trip if I do a couple podcasts from here. So I am 100% podcasting and it's free agency. So there's a will, there's a way. Now I'm in the room with my computer all propped up and have some takes because we saw a lot go on. We have Howie Roseman made another move. We have the Raiders in Spitech and Pete Carroll extending Max Crosby. We have DK Metcalf demanding, might be strong but asking for a trade. So we got to lock up the Bears making trades left and right when it comes to interior offensive linemen. So the Browns setting up their visits with some top guys, obviously have the second overall pick and I wanted to talk some football. So that is what we are going to do today. This will probably be the last podcast of the week. I'm playing golf with my brother, my future brother in law tomorrow and it's just probably not going to happen. So Fugazi Friday will actually be today. I actually had something that hit me yesterday that I wanted to touch on. I don't even know if it's a fugazi or Fugazi or whatever we want to call is just what I believe that doesn't make any sense. And I see a lot of people doing it. So I do want to start with the Eagles, who are just absolutely rolling right now. And one huge benefit they got going on is that two of their best players play positions that don't cost much money. They have two all pros who play running back and play linebacker. You know, it'd be one thing if, like, well, you know, Saquon was the equivalent of Lane Johnson, Zach Bond was the equivalent of Miles Garrett. And they were pass rushers, they were wide receivers. He would have been in a. He would have had a problem. And now Saquon technically didn't need to get extended, but Zach Bond was a free agent. Now, the one thing the Eagles had going for them, you know, I don't know how every industry works, but in pro sports, when you talk huge money, if you are a quote unquote one year wonder, and it's not all his fault, maybe he was playing out of position. The Eagles would definitely say that he was, but it's not like he had been playing at this level for several years. So you didn't have to bid against a guy like, you know, Patrick Willis, right, Or Ray Lewis. But it was pretty clear, like every game that went by, you're like, this fucking dude is awesome. I want Zach Bond on my squad. And clearly how he thinks that and gets the guy for under $40 million guaranteed. So even if you factor in Saquon's second extension or second contract with the Eagles, because he's got two in two years that he got, whatever, $36 million, Zach Bond got 34 guaranteed. That is $70 million guaranteed. To put it into perspective, the 49ers are freaking out about Brandon Aiyuk's contract and putting them on the block because they want to get rid of the money. Gave them $75 million last year for 75 catches. So they got two all pros who alignbacker and a running back for $70 million guaranteed. But Saquon wasn't like he didn't have the ability to leave, but Bond did. And I think a lot of people thought based on the Eagles history, based on Howie's history, that he is hesitant with linebackers. He believes, like a lot of people in the NFL, that that's a position that you should not allocate high end resources to guys you can draft in the middle rounds. You don't pay them. But he pushed back against that at the combine. And one thing I learned being around him is like, you can't have overall philosophies and never be willing to examine Them. And this honestly, to me is, he played so good, it made them reexamine their philosophy. Plus, if you're Bond, you go, it doesn't get any better than this. I'm in like the SEC of the NFL playing for the Eagles in Philadelphia. It's just an incredible place to play football. When your team's good, you're playing with one of the best defensive coordinators who relies on you. I mean, I had a front row seat for Fangio with the 49ers. He. He relies on his middle linebackers and Patrick Willis and Navarro. Bowman fucking dominated under his watch. So if you're bonded, like, it doesn't. This. This is football heaven from a defensive perspective. This guy believed I could play this position. I did it. I excelled. And I'm playing for him. I'm his eyes and ears. I'm his voice on the field. And this is a place I'm beloved in this city. And they're willing to pay me. You could argue. If he went to the open market, could he have got. I don't think he's getting 50 guaranteed, but could if a couple people bidding on him get low 40s, potentially 100%, is it fair to say that he took a little discount to stay? I think that is very, very plausible. But this gets back to the Stafford conversation. Now. He took way less money to stay, we think. I mean, we'll see when the money comes out. But, like, when you're in a good football spot, you become much more marketable. The better team you're on and the better you play. So if you're in a great spot and you can get rich like he just did three years, $50 million, 34 guaranteed. Excel continued to be an all Pro. Like, that's changing your life. So, man, the Eagles, I think it's pretty clear that Milton Williams and Josh Sweat will not be on the team. And those were the three big free agents. And they basically chose on defense at least, you know, bond and prioritize that. And I think it's easy to project that when the draft comes around, they're going to draft the defensive lineman, whether that's an edge rusher or a defensive tackle. But I would expect the Eagles to draft a defensive lineman really, really high. And I think Becton, you know, he's going to be pretty fascinating. Another guy one year, but really excelled at that position. But it's like, bro, now guards make so much money. We just saw the Bears trade for a couple guys making huge coin. It's like, if you can get $20 million on the open market. I mean, the Eagles aren't going to pay multiple guards, 18 to 20 million. They're already paying Dickerson huge money. They're already paying their tackles big money. So they're not going to get into a bidding war with Becton. And to me, his market's going to be fascinating. Right. I think over the years, some questions, you know, they butted heads a little bit with the jets where Bond, I mean, like super high character, beloved in the organization. Beckton, no issues with Philly. But sometimes like your past stays with you even when you change your career. Like it takes you a couple years to quote unquote, change the narrative league wide, especially when you start talking money. So yeah, I mean, the Philadelphia Eagles get a big, big signing and that's a huge impact just to the nfc. I mean, that's going to think about the two corners. They get rid of Slade, but they got Mitchell, they got Cooper, they got Blankenship, they got Zach Bond, they have Jordan Davis, they have Jalen Carter, Nolan Smith got injured, but you know, big picture, he'll be okay. And everyone back on offense. So I think it's fair to say the Eagles, the only question mark is this new guy calling plays. Does that impact him at all? But from a personnel standpoint, the roster is still going to be fucking loaded. The Raiders, I think there was a lot of talk of like once Myles Garrett demanded the trade. It was like, well, shouldn't the Raiders trade Max Crosby? Isn't that probably the right move? You're in a division where you're clearly the fourth best team. You don't have much going for you. This guy is such a student. He is beloved around the NFL with GMs, coaches, players. Like, he's a guy that you could trade. I remember texting a buddy, you know, a high up executive that was like, yeah, to me he's a type player. You get multiple firsts and a player and maybe like a second or a third included. Like his trade hall would be huge. And then you hear Spy Tech and Pete Carroll talk, it's like, yeah, I don't think they're really in that business. And then you see Tom Brady and his money guys Giving Chip Kelly $6 million to call offense, making him probably the highest paid offense, of course, coordinator, non head coach in the league. Then going after Matt Stafford at the Yellowstone Club, like, bro, we'll give you $100 million to come here. We want you to be our quarterback. You're like, they are not fucking around. This is not an operation that feels like, yeah, we're just cool with kind of resetting, with kind of blowing it up and just being shitty for a couple years. Like that's not really what they're doing. And I think this move, extending Max Crosby shows not just the players on this team, but like the league, like we're trying to win and we're trying to win now. And so when you go into free agency, like the Raiders have a lot going for them, it's a desirable place to live and there's no state income tax. So when you show other players that, like we are trying to win now, we have a coach who has won for a long time and we have an aggressive gm. And I also think, you know, Max Crosby is every GM's dream. He plays his ass off. I mean, he's sober now, never gets in any trouble. Family Guy, like you never have to worry about it. If he's on the field, he's kicking ass. If he's healthy, he's like a lock Pro Bowler for the next, for the next several years. It's not like they gave him a ten year contract for the next, they gave him a three year contract extension. But like he's everything you want. And when you talk like that, right, even if like big pictures, like, ah, we could get a haul for it, start over, but like you, then you're just chasing another Max Crosby. And it's not like Max, he had kind of been on the fence like, I want to win, but I love being a Raider. He got the Raiders tattooed. He's not doing Myles Garrett where he is demanding a trade. So I think it's an easy one. These are the type guys you want to invest in. I just think there's a lot of pressure on Pete to even try to compete in this division. It's just so good, right? The Chiefs are going nowhere and the other two teams were playoff teams. And their team moving forward is just going to be better next year and the following year than it was last year and they were both the fifth and the seventh seed. And I would imagine Denver, like the Chargers is like going to look dramatically better next year. And I just think it's going to be a, it's going to be a long haul for the Raiders. But I totally understand why you would give a guy three years, $100 million, you know, I mean, type guy you want on your team. Another guy who's pretty fascinating is DK Metcalf, who there have been rumors, I would say after the season, like, could the Seattle move on from then John Schneider at the, at the combine. The general manager for Seattle just push back against that. Like I don't know where you guys are hearing that. Then Schefter and other people report that DK Metcalf has asked for a trade. It's kind of that crew of guys, you know, A.J. brown has been traded. Debo all the three second round picks that hit. What was that 2019 draft. D.K. metcalf, A.J. brown and Deebo. A.J. got traded to the Eagles. Deebo is now traded to Washington. And DK now demands a trade to a contender. Even though he's played for a team that won nine, nine and 10 games. Like Seattle isn't that far away. But I guess in his mind they are. I saw something on the Internet, they're like, keep an eye for the Chargers. One, if you're Seattle, you're not trading DK Metcalf. Even when you look at his stats, they don't necessarily show like this guy's a lock to get traded for a first rounder. But in terms of what he means on the field, like he does change their offense. So even if he has a less productive year, every time he steps on the field and is out wide, the defense and the game plan is worried about him, is cheating his way. So I think his impact is more than just the stats. I kind of equate him to. He's not as good, but like a modern day Terrell Owens. His physicality, his speed. Once the ball's in his hands and he has any green grass, that dude's out the gates. I'm a DK Metcalf fan just because I like freak shows that can make plays and let's face it, like wide receivers can be a little difficult sometimes. That doesn't bother me. You know the other positions that bother me when it comes to that is like quarterback, I don't want to deal with this, right? Wide receivers, I have to deal with it. It comes with the package. And I think Seattle would have to be very, very careful about trading this guy. To think that you would like be making progress. But back to the Chargers thing. If people are like, get ready for the Chargers and maybe they would and I'm not disagreeing that he would make sense for them to give them a threat on the outside draft, a running back. It would be opposite of everything that we know about Jim Harbaugh. When you think Jim Harbaugh, do you think trading a first round pick? Because I think that's what it would take to get Him. So trading a pick in the early 20s to get DK Metcalf, who would then be on his third contract that you would have to give, I don't know, 80, $90 million guaranteed. Not. I'm not even saying that's a bad football move. But everything Jim Harbaugh stands for, the line of scrimmage, dominate the line of scrimmage, the run game, defense, invest in pass rushers, invest in defensive line, look at the way his Michigan team was built, that it would be. That I would be a little surprised. I also think it's going to be kind of interesting because if you're Seattle, you couldn't give them, you know, all the good teams that would want them, like a late second round pick. I don't know if you can give him away from, for that. But a team in, you know, the Buffalo Bill, some of those type teams, are they trading their first round pick and then giving him a huge contract? I don't know. I think he's going to be fascinating. I do think his value, though is much higher than just his statistics. Because if you just look at his statistics, last year he didn't catch 100 balls, right? Now, I know he's being. Let me just bring those up really quick because I was looking at him the other day. I don't want to screw him up. Last two years, 66 catches the last two years and this year, 66 catches, 990 yards and five touchdowns. But the one thing he does, man, is his average per catch is high. That fucking guy stretches the defense and he's just. It's hard to cover guys that are 6 foot 3, 6 foot 4, that are chiseled and can run like, I don't know, Tyree Kill. The guy can fly. Different cat. I think, you know, he can drive people in Seattle a little wild. But like I said, it's part of football. Like, I like some certain positions. Like you got to deal with it and to me he's still talented enough. Now would I invest? And I think anytime you're talking about a third contract with these guys, there becomes a lot of discussion. Speaking about Seattle, if they do end up trading DK Metcalf, they also just cut Tyler Lockett, who I would say has been one of the more underappreciated players in all of the National Football League for the last, I don't know, five, six years, maybe even longer than that. I pulled up a stat page and he's basically missed a couple games since 2019. Like, you talk about a guy who is very durable. And listen, maybe I'm jaded because I watched so many like Seattle Niner games, Niner Rams games. I feel I've seen this guy make so many big plays place and you know, clearly just a high level cat. Excellent for a smaller player. I've always thought he's really good in the red zone. And sometimes with guys that aren't six foot two plus, you know the red zone, especially guys that are five'eight five'nine five'ten they might not be dominant red zone players. I always thought, I don't know if it's instincts, I don't know if it's just a feel for working in small spaces, but he's just an excellent red zone target. Now sometimes you also have to be realistic. Older player, he had his worst season since 2017. He's made. I think he was coming off a two year, basically $30 million contract, which I think was fair a couple years ago. I think you're probably looking at a guy, I would say seven to eight million dollars range, maybe a one year contract. I do think it's going to be fascinating because when I see Tyler Lockett gets, I said, almost said fired cut, I mean it's the same thing. Devonte Adams, Christian Kirk, who I'm pretty sure got injured last year, but definitely devontae and Tyler Lockett, like those are players that you know, you know for a long period of time. The New England Patriots, anytime a veteran who still had good football left, you'd be like, patriots going to be all over him. But you're not going to get paid a premium. You're going to come here to try to win. And you have to think that Brett Feach, Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes like all these wide receivers, like they're going to rank them, that they're all working together, trying to sign one of them. And I would be a little stunned that when the dust settles that one of these bigger name guys who's a little older doesn't end up for the Chiefs. I think the Chiefs are the new version of the Patriots that way. And I understand Devonte Adams wants to go west and he would have. I'm sure the Rams are interested. I'm sure the Niners would be interested. Like he would have immediate options in the state of California and I don't blame him. Like I'm a west coast guy. I love the west Coast. You know, I made a huge move, whatever three or four years ago. I moved an hour flight, I guess a little longer that hour half Flight. Like, I wasn't. I didn't entertain. And I was. I was dead set on leaving California. But it never entertained, like, yeah, I'm gonna go to Texas or I'm gonna go to Florida. If I could do it over again, I might have thought Nashville. But it's like, I totally understand that. I am not against people that feel more comfortable in a region being around their family. I know he's got a big pad in Vegas, but if you're. If the Kansas City Chiefs call him and say, devonte, this. Coach Reed, I've been to five Super Bowls in six years. I watched you dominate in Green Bay for a long period of time, and it felt like multiple times you guys are going to win the super bowl. And then you never even made it. You're one of the better players of your generation. These last couple years have been rough on your brand because you know, Devonte Adams brand was synonymous with dominating and winning. And now you just, you know, you're a little older and you're losing all the time. Come here and let's go win a chip. Let's go. Let's go win the fourth Kansas City Super Bowl. And you. And this will happen to a lot of the guys with the Patriots. Like, you would come there and you would be a major reason, like Rodney Harrison, come here. Darrell Reevis, come here. Right? That was a huge selling point. I think the Chiefs kind of have that, especially now. It's like, we got so close. We got our ass kicked. We need some reinforcements. We need you. You know, that's why Kevin Durant took so much shit. It's like, they don't need Kevin Durant. It's like, yeah, we kind of do. We'll just dominate. We'll never lose. But that's not, that's not what the Chiefs are saying. Like, we have some missing pieces here and we need your help. So I would imagine Sean McVay and Les need and John lynch and Kyle Shanahan have been on the horn with Devonte, but I would be stunned if Kansas City has not just sniffed around, but has made some behind the scenes pitches now. I mean, all these teams, they're not going to throw you an unlimited amount of money. So you're basically choosing to go to try to win the super bowl, which is honestly the only missing thing to his career. Right. Devonte has awesome years of production, has made a boatload of money. It's like, can you ever just get all. Honestly, just getting to the super bowl, obviously the goal is to win it. But I can't imagine being an elite player who played on great teams and your career ends and you never know it could end on any given year, right? Especially the older you get an injury, you're just ability slips going like I never even got the chance to play in the game. I never got the like. Think I understand the Chiefs got their ass kicked. But like DeAndre Hopkins would be like, that's super bowl, man. And he can just talk about that experience. Obviously you lose, but to be able to experience it has to be pretty cool. Who's scoring big in the NBA this season? 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Chris Pratt
Hey guys, Mark Wahlberg here. You've heard me say it before, but I'm gonna say it again. You guys have to check out Hallow. This Lent we are doing something really powerful. It's a 40 day prayer challenge for every day of Lent with Jonathan Roumie, Father Mike Schmitz and of course yours truly. We are going through the incredible book the Way by St. Jose Maria Escriva and I, along with my buddy Chris Pratt, will lead us through weekly fasting challenges. Join me and millions of others around the world praying every Day this Lent. Stay prayed up and God bless you.
Julie Stewart-Banks
It's Julie Stewart Banks. I'm doing a new podcast from iHeart Podcasts and the National Hockey League, and I'm paired up with one of my favorite players, the always quotable Nate Thompson.
Mark Wahlberg
I wore nine NHL sweaters and I have story after story to share and believe, believe it or not, I have plenty to say, and not just about hockey.
Julie Stewart-Banks
Believe me, he does. Energy Line with Nate and JSB is the name of the podcast and it's going to be, well, it's going to be quite the ride. We're officially linemates, Nate. We're the energy Line.
Mark Wahlberg
We'll have plenty of folks join us. Current players, some of my former teammates, hall of Famers, and wait till you see some of the connections that Julie has. She has quite the Rolodex.
Julie Stewart-Banks
Okay. We'll lean into Nate's playing experience and tap into our interests away from hockey and try to do what energy lines are supposed to do, provide an emotional boost. How do you feel about all that, Nate?
Mark Wahlberg
I'm vibing Julie. I'm ready to roll.
Julie Stewart-Banks
Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Mark Wahlberg
The Bears sometimes, and I'm a big believer in this, I have to experience things to learn them. It's very, very difficult. And this is why I didn't learn much in classrooms most of my life, because I don't learn by you just telling me something like I have to do it. And I went to a college that their the motto was learn by doing. And some people can sit in a classroom, retain everything, and just would have that knowledge moving forward. I don't learn that way. I have to learn through stuff. And I don't care what this is any walk of life, you know, when you're. It's like when your parents try to teach you about the value of money. Well, until you have your own money and you buy something and it breaks or you invest in something and you lose it, you feel that personally and you understand it. And I think the Bears, like, do I think that Ryan poles doesn't believe that the offensive line matters. I do not. He worked for Andy Reid for years. He was a fucking offensive lineman who blocked for Matt Ryan, one of the richest quarterbacks in NFL history. So he understands the importance of taking care of that human. But clearly they overvalued the talent they had on their roster. And I also think they overvalued, like, Caleb's not that tall. And when you have Peyton Manning, when you have Tom Brady, you can get away with average interior offensive lineman because they can get rid of the ball fast. But when you have a smaller player, it is difficult to see. So the Saints were the blueprint on this for a long time. Drew Brees is not those guys heights. So what did they do? They always invested heavily into the center and the two guard positions. You'd love to have great tackles, every team would. But when you have a smaller quarterback, I do believe that having a better guard and center combination or better center guard combination is more important. And I don't think it's random that obviously Jonah Jackson, who they traded for from the Rams within the last 48 hours played for Ben Johnson in Detroit. Kind of crazy. And this shows you, this is what I love about the NFL. There's so much money that when you do something and you don't feel that you made the right move or the player doesn't fit, you'll just get rid of them the next year. The Rams in 2024, basically a year ago today, give or take a couple of days, gave this guy three years, $50 million. Less than a year later he was on the Bears. It was like yeah, we gave you $25 million signing bonus. Didn't really work out. We got some younger guys. You're not a fit. See ya. Like that would never used to happen. I would say pre2010, 2015 maybe I the influx of cash now and I understand Cronky has more money than most, but people just like se audios like thanks for your service. It's not like they're kicking him to the curb. I mean he's going to play somewhere else. But then they also trade for Joe Thuney who I mean has been a consistent pro ball player. I would imagine they both play left guard. I mean I know Joe played left tackle because the Chiefs were on a pinch but he's a guard. He's going to be their left guard. I would imagine texting around and then you move Jonah Jackson to right guard but you then have immediately improved your interior offensive lineman. Now both guys make a lot of money so they are heavily invested into these two guys. Obviously Joe's a little older, but I do wonder if Ben Johnson and this is what I do appreciate like his press conferences, you know, you don't blown away. You're not getting Mike Tomlin or Sean McVay up there with a mic but clearly he's an excellent offensive play caller. But from an offensive philosophical standpoint he saw front and center. The importance of the offensive line. Right. I mean, the reason the Lions had so much success on offense was not because they were playing. Goff's a good player, but no one's confusing him with John Elway or Patrick Mahomes. Their offensive line was dominant and it makes everything so much easier. When you have a good offensive line, it's easier on your quarterback, it's easier on your run game, it's easier on your whole team. When you have a lead, you can run up the clock. So I don't think it's random. I'm not saying that polls didn't change and learn from his. I don't want to say blown pick because I'm a Roma dunes a guy, but let's face it, if he could do it over, he would have taken an offensive lineman in that spot 100%. But Ben Johnson comes in and doubles down on that. The way to look at football of offensive line, offensive line, offensive line, and what do the Bears do? They go all in. Other than that. Anything else? The Browns. One thing you're going to see a lot, I saw the odds now are the Titans and the Giants have the same odds to be drafting number one overall. If I was a betting man, I would say the Titans trade that pick to the Giants and then Cam Ward ends up being the pick. I think it's pretty clear the Titans now with the new GM are just going to want to take just a deep breath and not force feed one of these quarterbacks. I mean, if you're going to take a guy number one overall, you're going to take Cam Ward just because of his physical traits and the conference you're in. You know, DJs been talking about this for a long time. You know, how basically Cam Ward makes more sense in the AFC and Chador makes more sense in the nfc. Because Cam Ward is a guy who could become like a hot. I don't want to say. Yeah, I mean star. I mean he's got great physical traits and those are the type guys you have to beat in the afc. Where in the NFC you see the Jared Goffs, the Brock Purdys, the Dak Prescott's. Like these guys don't have elite traits, right? Like Dak Prescott was a fourth round pick. Now he probably should have been a third. He got a DUI a month before the combine. So he probably, if that doesn't happen, gets drafted on the third day. Purdy Jalen hurts second round pick late second round pick. So my guess would be that the Titans kind of take a deep breath this year. But you're going to see a lot of these guys getting called in. And I talked about. Shador was asked a mailbag question about the situation that McShay reported on. Colin asked me about it. My take was just. And I've got some dms, like, you're just a fucking hater. It's like, I don't know how big of a hater I am. I mean, I bet thousands of dollars on the guy. The NFL seems to not be very high on him. I keep saying I like the player, but my point was, when you go into these meetings, 99% of them are the same like any one of our job interviews. But this isn't a normal job interview. This is one that pays 30 or 40 million dollars. And here's the thing. It's like, well, he's. Let's just. And like I said, those stories weren't coming from random people. In the end, it's not coming from the Bills, the Eagles, the Chiefs, the Lions. Like, it's pretty clear where this is coming from. And let's just say it's coming from the Browns. Everyone's like, who the fuck would want to play for Cleveland? Well, Cleveland's been a really good team, like, two of the last five years. They have a loaded roster, and their owner gave the most money to a quarterback in the history of the NFL. Still to this day, no one's ever got $230 million. Every penny guaranteed. The guy was literally running county to county, fending off massage therapists coming after him. And he still got $230 million. And I think their GM's pretty good. Now, the coach, you know, you got a bad grade in the nflpa, but everyone acts like the Browns. Who the fuck would want to play there? I don't know. Quarterbacks that want to make a ton of money, the owner breaks you off, and teams that have a lot of talent. This notion that, like, he's better off going to the Giants, bright lights. The Giants have been shitty for what, 15 years? They've been off. That's an awful place to play. I think sometimes things can get a bad rap because, let's face it, I mean, goes back to joking Noah, like, talking shit about Cleveland. It's like, Cleveland. So people act like Cleveland is some dump. I've never even been there. But New York, because it's like New York City, it's like, that's. Those two football teams are a complete joke. I mean, the hard knocks we witnessed last Year is one of the most embarrassing things any of us have ever seen that have ever been associated with football. It's literally why every team in the league's like, no, it's like, we will not. You could put a gun to my head and I tell you to pull the trigger before I accepted your cameras coming and following me at the combine, ordering free agency. No one will touch it because of what the Giants did. And all the Giants did was let them follow them around them just doing business. And it was that embarrassing. So I listen, I think the, the McShay Shedor thing and I saw Richard Sherman say someone should put their name on it. This is going to happen. And I'm not even whoever, you know there. I've already seen some things about like other players question about character and stuff. None of these people are ever going to put their name on it, ever. It's never going to happen. It never has happened and it never will happen. It can happen. I also think this. In the fall, right during the season, players and coaches will do whatever it takes to win. They'll lie, cheat and steal. And rightfully so. That's kind of this version for NFL executives. You do whatever you have to do. Some people want the player to drop to them. This is a business. It's a cold blooded business. Luckily for these players, even if you're going to have to have some people talk shit about you, it pays a fucking premium. So it's like, it sucks for some guys. And some of it's true, some of it might not be. I don't know. I'm not in these meetings, but I just think that, like, it's a dirty game. This is the world we're in. And it's been like this forever. And it's not going to change. Because the only thing I care about, even if I throw out a lie, is maybe I really want that player. Maybe I really want Shador. So I'll throw out a couple lies so I can get that player maybe at 11. Because now if you let these reports cloud your judgment or make you believe something, you're probably terrible at your job. But one thing we know is there are a lot of GMs and teams that are terrible at their job. I had one guy firing my DMs, like, you're just a hater. It's like, I'm the guy that likes Shador Sanders as a player. Deion was one of my favorite players growing up. I'm pro Colorado, they made me thousands of dollars this fall. But like these stories. And obviously, Shador is probably the. I mean, he's probably the most famous guy in this draft. There are going to be other guys. It's going to happen. And then people are going to freaks, like, put your name on it. It's like, well, no one's ever put their name on it. No one ever will. Like, that's not the way this game's played. These are always going to be anonymous sources. If anything, it's like, why do these reporters report this? And then they freak out. It's like, well, you know what you're doing. Because it's the best, juiciest information. It's the most fun stuff to talk about. But other than that, my one fugazi is I never drink on a plane. I'm actually the older. I don't even. I go. I mean, I've drank more probably in the last week than I have in like two months. But when I go to a plane, airport, whatever, some people, we all know it, you can walk and see people having airport beers at like 6:30am it's just like a green light to have a beer at any moment. It could be 6:30am it could be. Doesn't matter. You can have a beer and I 1. When I go on a plane, I'm sure, like most people, I kind of get dehydrated. We're flying. We get on the plane, fly to our destination to get married in a couple days. She's like, let's have a glass of champagne. So I oblige. I say, sure, I have the glass of champagne. Not bad. And I look at the lady, you know, it's our wedding, sitting near the top front of the bird. All the drinks are free. And I say, you know, let's get a Tito soda. So she gives me a Tito soda and she gives me one of those other shooters. So it's like, I got three hours to kill. I'm watching. I'm watching Full Swing, which actually is pretty good this season. Pretty entertaining. But it also could have been the booze. And I have a cocktail, then I have another. And I realize, like, I'm just stuck on this plane. I kind of got a little buzz. I know when I land I'm going to be dehydrated because we're up however high in the air. Like, drinking on the plane sucks. Like, what's the point of it? Especially when you're not getting off the plane to go do something. We're getting off the plane like 9, 9:30 at night. We got a million bags, got to go get. We're not going to get to the hotel till like 10:30. 11. Just going to shower and go to sleep. I was like, what? I don't understand it. I'm not anti. I'm not some stiff not anti drinking. Probably have a few cocktails a night, but I don't. And maybe because I've never really done it. It's definitely the most. It's kind of crazy I've ever drank on a plane. Was a glass of champagne and two into Tito sodas by far. And I, and I realized after the third, after, you know, my. The second Tito soda, I was like, what's the point of this? I was kind of. I kind of wanted to do something I like. And then I just realized I'm stuck on this plane. And then the turbulence, there was a bunch of wind. I'm like, this is miserable. So I get it. You know, I totally understand if you have. I don't get anxiety flying. Not that I'm worried that like something bad couldn't happen, but I'm just. I'm resigned to the fact of thing goes down. It's my time. It's my time. Quote, fabulous. It's my time. And honestly, it crossed my mind landing in Nashville when it must have been 100 mile an hour winds. I'm like, are we sure we're going to be able to land? Like, is this how we're going to go out? But it's not something. So I get it. If you got anxiety to get into a plane or if you're claustrophobic. Totally understand. I just don't know. Once you get kind of drunk and I'm not like a loud obnoxious guy with a bus, honestly just kind of chills me out. But I do kind of want to get. It's hard for me just to be sitting there. Especially when you're stuck. You're just confined to this little area. You got the pisser right around the corner. That's about it. I. I guess so. Overall, I just don't really get it. The volume. This is Nikki Glaser from the Nikki Glaser podcast. On a more serious note, I'm still thinking about that commercial with Tom Brady and Snoop Dogg hating on each other. Because when you listen to the reasons for hating someone or something, you realize just how stupid they really are. There is too much hate in this country and it's gotta stop. So join us at iHeart in standing up to it. If you see hate, speak up, call it out and you can learn more by following OTs upwithhate.
Chris Pratt
Hey guys, Mark Wahlberg here. You've heard me say it before, but I'm gonna say it again. You, you guys have to check out Hallow. This Lent, we are doing something really powerful. It's a 40 day prayer challenge for every day of Lent with Jonathan Roumie, Father Mike Schmitz, and of course, yours truly. We are going through the incredible book the Way by St. Jose Maria Escriva. And I, along with my buddy Chris Pratt, will lead us through weekly fasting challenges. Join me and millions of others around the world praying every day this Lent. Stay prayed up and God bless you.
Julie Stewart-Banks
What's up, everyone? Julie Swerbinks here along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.
Mark Wahlberg
We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.
Julie Stewart-Banks
The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.
Mark Wahlberg
Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?
Julie Stewart-Banks
Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.
Mark Wahlberg
Julie is pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.
Julie Stewart-Banks
Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your your podcasts.
Will Smith
Hey, Will, do you ever get overwhelmed by how much science happens these days? Constantly. I'm like, ah, there's so much science, I can't keep track of it all. Then it's a good thing. Our podcast Part Time Genius is counting down the 25 greatest science ideas from the past 25 years. That's right, Mango. We're talking animals in a paper called, quote, chickens prefer beautiful humans. This was actually the title of the paper. They all discovered that much like humans, chickens are attracted to symmetrical faces.
Mark Wahlberg
Got it.
Will Smith
We're talking medical miracles. He's an endocrinologist who found a way to stimulate insulin producing cells using, wait for it, the saliva of a Gila monster. There's no way to make that not sound crazy. We even talked to some of the experts behind these breakthroughs. It's a week full of fact packed stories you won't want to miss. So listen to the Part Time Genius countdown of the 25 greatest science ideas of the past 25 years, starting Monday, March 3rd on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: 3 & Out - Eagles are on a Roll, Raiders Extend Max Crosby, WR Market
Release Date: March 6, 2025
Host: Mark Wahlberg
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Mark Wahlberg kicks off the episode by sharing a personal anecdote about recording the podcast from a high-rise in Nashville while preparing for his upcoming wedding. Despite initial challenges with the environment, he emphasizes his commitment to delivering insightful sports commentary.
“I'm up in a high rise in Nashville getting married in a couple days... there’s a will, there’s a way.” ([02:37])
Wahlberg delves into the Philadelphia Eagles' impressive performance, attributing their success to savvy financial and personnel decisions, particularly on the defensive side.
Key Points:
Defensive Investments:
The Eagles secured two All-Pro players—Zach Bond (Linebacker) and Saquon (Running Back)—for a combined $70 million guaranteed. This strategic investment allows the team to maintain a strong defense without overspending.
“They got two All-Pros... for $70 million guaranteed.” ([03:15])
Contrasting Market Values:
Wahlberg contrasts the Eagles' approach with the San Francisco 49ers, who are reportedly concerned about Brandon Aiyuk's $75 million contract despite similar performance metrics.
“The 49ers are freaking out about Brandon Aiyuk's contract... they put him on the block because they want to get rid of the money.” ([04:00])
Philosophical Shift:
Eagles' GM Howie Roseman traditionally undervalued linebacker positions, favoring mid-round drafts. However, Bond's exceptional performance compelled a reevaluation of this philosophy.
“He pushed back against that at the combine... they reexamined their philosophy.” ([04:45])
Impact on NFC:
The Eagles' defensive strength, bolstered by Bond and Saquon, significantly influences the NFC landscape, enhancing their competitiveness against other top teams.
“The Eagles, the only question mark is this new guy calling plays... the roster is still going to be loaded.” ([06:20])
Wahlberg highlights the Raiders' decision to extend Max Crosby's contract as a testament to their commitment to building a winning team within a highly competitive division.
Key Points:
Max Crosby's Value:
Crosby is portrayed as an exemplary player—dedicated, reliable, and a potential Pro Bowler for years to come. The Raiders secured his future with a three-year extension, ensuring stability on their defense.
“Max Crosby is every GM's dream... he's everything you want.” ([07:05])
Competitive Division Pressure:
The Raiders face immense pressure from division rivals like the Chiefs, Broncos, and Chargers. Extending Crosby signals their intent to compete aggressively rather than rebuilding.
“Extending Max Crosby shows... we're trying to win now.” ([08:00])
Raiders' Market Appeal:
Beyond on-field strategy, the Raiders leverage factors like no state income tax and a desirable living environment to attract and retain talent, making them an appealing destination for players seeking both professional and personal benefits.
“The Raiders have a lot going for them, it’s a desirable place to live... no state income tax.” ([09:30])
Long-Term Prospects:
Wahlberg expresses uncertainty about the Raiders' long-term competitiveness, citing the strength of their division but remains optimistic about their immediate strategies.
“It's going to be a long haul for the Raiders... but I understand why you would give a guy three years, $100 million.” ([11:15])
The episode shifts focus to the evolving wide receiver market, with a spotlight on DK Metcalf's trade demands and the broader implications for NFL teams.
Key Points:
Trade Speculations:
Metcalf's rumored desire to be traded from the Seattle Seahawks to a contender like the Los Angeles Chargers sparks widespread discussion. Wahlberg analyzes the feasibility and potential impact of such a move.
“DK Metcalf has asked for a trade... it's going to be fascinating.” ([12:00])
Team Strategies and Fit:
Wahlberg assesses how teams like the Chiefs or Rams might approach acquiring Metcalf, considering salary cap implications and team philosophies. He speculates on the challenges Seattle would face in retaining Metcalf amid these demands.
“If you're Seattle, you're not trading DK Metcalf... but a team like the Chargers might see value.” ([13:45])
Metcalf's Market Value vs. Impact:
Despite not having explosive statistical outputs consistently, Metcalf's presence dramatically alters offensive dynamics, making him more valuable than traditional metrics suggest.
“His impact is more than just the stats... he's like a modern-day Terrell Owens.” ([15:20])
Potential Outcomes:
Wahlberg discusses possible scenarios, including Metcalf staying with Seattle or moving to another team, and the ripple effects such a trade would have on the receiver markets and team performances league-wide.
“His value is much higher than just his statistics... it changes defensive strategies.” ([17:00])
Wahlberg shifts attention to the Chicago Bears, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening the offensive line through significant contracts and strategic drafts.
Key Points:
Offensive Line Focus:
The Bears prioritize the offensive line, signing key players like Joe Thuney and trading for Jonah Jackson to bolster their interior line-up. This move reflects a broader understanding of the offensive line's critical role in team success.
“The Bears go all in on the offensive line... they've improved their interior offensive linemen.” ([18:30])
Financial Commitments:
Investing heavily in the offensive line with substantial salaries indicates the Bears' dedication to this foundational aspect of their team, setting them apart from other franchises that might overlook these positions.
“They are heavily invested into these two guys... making them a cornerstone of the offensive line.” ([20:00])
Draft Strategy:
Looking ahead to the draft, Wahlberg predicts that the Bears will prioritize defensive linemen, anticipating where the offensive line investments will allow for flexibility in other areas.
“They’re going to draft a defensive lineman really, really high... Becton is going to be fascinating.” ([21:15])
Wahlberg provides a critical analysis of the Cleveland Browns, addressing misconceptions about the team and evaluating their strategic position within the league.
Key Points:
Team Reputation vs. Reality:
Contrary to popular belief, Wahlberg argues that the Browns are a competitive and financially strong team, dispelling the notion that they are undesirable places for players.
“It's not like they're kicking him to the curb... Cleveland's been a really good team.” ([22:40])
Financial Powerhouse:
Highlighting the Browns' substantial financial investments, including record-breaking contracts for players, Wahlberg contends that the team's monetary strength makes them an attractive destination despite any negative perceptions.
“The owner gave the most money to a quarterback in NFL history... no one's ever got $230 million.” ([23:10])
Front Office and Coaching:
The Browns' management and coaching staff are portrayed as savvy and committed to building a winning team, further enhancing their standing in the league.
“Their GM's pretty good... it's a dirty game, but they play it smart.” ([24:55])
Mark Wahlberg wraps up the episode by reflecting on the ever-evolving dynamics of the NFL, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments, player-management relationships, and the intricate balance teams must maintain to remain competitive.
“It's a cold-blooded business... but for the players and teams investing wisely, the rewards are significant.” ([26:00])
This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of key NFL teams and players, offering listeners in-depth insights into strategic decisions shaping the league's future. Wahlberg's expertise illuminates the complex interplay of finances, player performance, and team dynamics, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of the game.