Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: 3 & Out - Is Mahomes FAT, Cousins REGRETS signing in ATL, CHANGES in College Football
Release Date: July 11, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," host John Middlecoff delves into some of the most pressing topics in the NFL and college football. From the physique of star quarterbacks to strategic team decisions and significant shifts in college recruiting, Middlecoff provides insightful commentary backed by his extensive experience in the sport.

Is Patrick Mahomes FAT?

John Middlecoff kicks off the discussion by addressing the viral claim that MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes is "fat." He challenges societal standards and emphasizes the importance of performance over physical appearance.

Key Points:

• Body Types in Football: Middlecoff highlights that certain positions, like offensive and defensive linemen, naturally carry more weight due to the demands of their roles. In contrast, positions like wide receivers and defensive backs maintain lean physiques essential for their on-field responsibilities.

• Performance Over Appearance: Middlecoff asserts, "I pay for completions, I pay for leadership, I pay for toughness. And ultimately I pay for him to lead my team to wins." He emphasizes that Mahomes' performance metrics are what truly matter to teams and fans alike.

• Relatability Factor: By being "a little chubby," Mahomes may even enhance his relatability among fans, showcasing that excellence in sports doesn't conform to stereotypical body standards.

Notable Quote:

“[Mahomes] is literally paid when it's 20 to 20 in the fourth quarter... can you keep the drive going on third and six? And as he's answered for seven, eight years, fuck yes, I can.”
— John Middlecoff [Timestamp: 04:30]

Brett Veach's Comments on Travis Kelce

Middlecoff transitions to discussing Brett Veach, the General Manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, and his recent remarks about Travis Kelce, the Chiefs' star tight end.

Key Points:

• Strong Team Chemistry: The relationship between Veach, Head Coach Andy Reid, and Travis Kelce is portrayed as a cornerstone of the Chiefs' success. Middlecoff emphasizes the longevity and stability within the team's structure as a significant advantage.

• Handling Criticism: Veach's candid comments about Kelce reflect the mutual respect and understanding within the organization. Middlecoff notes, "They have an enormous advantage. They have cohesion, they have chemistry and they have the same guys on the team now for a long, long period of time."

• Future Prospects: While acknowledging that this period of stability may eventually conclude, Middlecoff believes the current roster's cohesion is a key factor in the Chiefs' continued dominance.

Notable Quote:

“Having a good working relationship with someone... you get guys like Andy Reid or Jack Del Rio... you can be honest and not worry about how things are going to be taken.”
— John Middlecoff [Timestamp: 20:15]

Kirk Cousins' Regrets Signing with the Atlanta Falcons

Another pivotal segment focuses on Kirk Cousins, the quarterback who recently signed with the Atlanta Falcons and now expresses regrets about the decision.

Key Points:

• Contract Decisions: Middlecoff explores the financial and strategic aspects of Cousins' $90 million contract with the Falcons, questioning whether the team anticipated drafting a quarterback like Michael Penix.

• Team Dynamics: The analysis suggests that the Falcons may have overcommitted financially to Cousins without a long-term quarterback plan, leading to potential instability and regret from Cousins.

• Performance and Future: Considering Cousins' recent Achilles injury and the Falcons' quarterback prospects, Middlecoff speculates on the sustainability of Cousins' tenure with the team, hinting that this could be his last year with the Falcons.

Notable Quote:

“If I knew that they were going to draft a quarterback, I probably just would have stayed with Minnesota... What you think Oklahoma paid him? Double? Triple?”
— John Middlecoff [Timestamp: 47:50]

Changes in College Football: The Death of Recruiting

Shifting focus to college football, Middlecoff discusses the evolving landscape of recruiting and how financial powerhouses are reshaping the competition.

Key Points:

• Shift from Recruiting to Retention: Middlecoff argues that traditional recruiting is becoming obsolete, with financial incentives playing a more significant role in attracting and retaining top talent.

• Influence of Wealthy Institutions: Institutions like Texas Tech, backed by significant financial contributions from billionaires like Cody Campbell, are leveraging money to enhance their programs, making it challenging for smaller schools to compete.

• Impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness): The introduction of NIL has intensified the competition for top players, with wealthy schools offering more substantial financial packages, thereby diminishing the role of personal rapport and organizational culture in recruiting.

Notable Quote:

“The only thing that matters now is like, what are you offering the guy? Now if both offers are half a million dollars, he likes you more for sure.”
— John Middlecoff [Timestamp: 59:30]

Mailbag Highlights

In the mailbag segment, listeners pose various questions related to NFL team performances, coaching decisions, and player evaluations. Middlecoff provides candid responses, offering his perspectives on:

• Chicago Bears' Season Expectations: Assessing the Bears' potential to improve under Ben Johnson's coaching and their chances of making the playoffs.

• Jim Harbaugh and the Dolphins: Speculating on the likelihood of Jim Harbaugh coaching the Miami Dolphins, especially in scenarios involving quarterback Justin Herbert.

• Garrett Wilson's Standing: Evaluating wide receiver Garrett Wilson's potential and ranking him among his peers in the league.

Notable Quote:

“I think he's a top 10 wide receiver in the league... you would take Garrett Wilson over Drake London.”
— John Middlecoff [Timestamp: 75:45]

Conclusion

John Middlecoff wraps up the episode by reiterating the dynamics of team chemistry, financial strategies in recruiting, and the ever-evolving nature of football both at the professional and college levels. His comprehensive analysis provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the factors influencing team performances and player decisions in the current sports landscape.

Notable Mentions:

• Chiefs' Stability: The discussion emphasized the Chiefs' unique stability in personnel and coaching, attributing their success to long-term relationships and team cohesion.

• Player Performance Metrics: Middlecoff consistently prioritizes performance statistics and leadership qualities over physical appearances or traditional metrics like body mass index.

• Economic Influence in College Sports: The episode underscores the increasing impact of financial investments on college football programs, potentially sidelining talent based solely on merit and rapport.

This episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers a nuanced exploration of contemporary issues in football, blending analytical insights with candid opinions, making it a valuable listen for enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of the sport's current state.