Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: 3 & Out - Jerry is getting old, Latest with Purdy, and NFL Rule Changes
Release Date: April 2, 2025
Host: John Middlekauff with Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosts John Middlekauff and Colin Cowherd delve into pressing topics affecting the NFL, including the aging of Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones, developments surrounding quarterback Brock Purdy, and significant NFL rule changes. The discussion is enriched with listener interactions and expert insights, providing a comprehensive overview for both avid fans and casual followers of the sport.

2. Jerry Jones: Aging and Its Impact on the Dallas Cowboys

Timestamp: 05:02 - 10:15

Key Points:

• Jerry Jones' Age and Decision-Making:
  John and Colin express concerns over the advanced age of Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones, highlighting how his decision-making style may be affecting the team's performance and financial flexibility.

• Contract Negotiations and Financial Strategy:
  The hosts discuss Jones' approach to player contracts, emphasizing his preference for paying top dollar to secure star players, which limits the team's ability to extend contracts for other key players.

  • Colin Cowherd: "He'll pay Micah Parsons and give him $150 million guaranteed. If he would have done this early, probably could have got them for 20% cheaper."

• Comparison with Rival Teams:
  The Philadelphia Eagles are contrasted with the Cowboys, showcasing how the Eagles' early contract extensions have allowed them to build a robust roster with multiple top-tier players, while the Cowboys are constrained by their high expenditures on a few stars.

  • John Middlekauff: "The Eagles have a quarterback making a ton of money and build a loaded offense with lots of high-priced players. The Cowboys can only have three max players on the whole team."

Insights:

• The hosts argue that Jones' aging leadership may hinder the Cowboys' competitiveness, especially when facing rivals with more strategic financial management.
• There is skepticism about Jones' ability to adapt his management style to modern NFL dynamics, potentially putting the team at a disadvantage.

3. Brock Purdy and the San Francisco 49ers

Timestamp: 12:26 - 17:16

Key Points:

• Brock Purdy's Contract and Value:
  John and Colin analyze Brock Purdy's contract situation, questioning whether the 49ers are overpaying for his performance and potential.

  • John Middlekauff: "If you make such an aggressive purchase, like pay a quarterback $100 million over a couple years, you're not letting the guy control his own destiny."

• Team Strategy and Draft Implications:
  The discussion extends to the 49ers' draft strategy, emphasizing the importance of securing high-impact players to complement Purdy and avoid mediocrity.

  • Colin Cowherd: "If the 49ers just have an average draft, they're screwed. They need a draft that changes the franchise."

Insights:

• There is concern that the 49ers may lack balance in their roster, risking long-term success by heavily investing in quarterback Purdy without adequately supporting positions.
• The importance of strategic drafting is underscored as crucial for maintaining competitive edge.

4. NFL Rule Changes: Overtime and the Tush Push

Timestamp: 22:26 - 28:16

Key Points:

• Overtime Rule Modifications:
  The NFL has implemented changes to the overtime rules, ensuring both teams get possession of the ball during regular-season games, aligning playoff rules with these adjustments.

  • John Middlekauff: "You either got to do sudden death or go all in. Both teams get to touch the ball."

• The Tush Push Controversy:
  A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to debating the NFL's adoption of the Tush Push play, a controversial maneuver favored by teams like the Philadelphia Eagles.

  • John Middlekauff: "The Tush Push feels like a guarantee that it's either going to be a first down or touchdown."
  • Colin Cowherd: "Anyone can do it. You just don't happen to have a quarterback that squats 600 pounds."

• Stakeholders' Perspectives:
  Coaches and executives weigh in on the play’s effectiveness and its impact on the game's integrity. The hosts highlight differing opinions, with some praising its strategic value while others criticize its potential to undermine traditional gameplay and player safety.

  • John Middlekauff: "Howie Roseman asked for data showing more injuries due to the play, but there was none."

Insights:

• The Tush Push has ignited debate over innovation versus tradition in football, with arguments centered around fairness, safety, and the evolving nature of the game.
• The rule changes in overtime aim to enhance fairness, though opinions remain divided on their effectiveness.

5. Hall of Fame Candidacy: Matt Ryan and Others

Timestamp: 37:02 - 39:34

Key Points:

• Matt Ryan’s Hall of Fame Prospects:
  The hosts explore whether Matt Ryan merits induction into the Hall of Fame, citing his MVP award, All-Pro selections, and impressive passer rating, while acknowledging that missing a Super Bowl may tarnish his legacy.

  • John Middlekauff: "Anyone who says no is crazy. Pro Football Focus agrees."
  • Colin Cowherd: "He’s not as good as Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson."

• Comparisons with Peers:
  Matt Ryan is compared to other quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, discussing how Super Bowl victories and career achievements influence Hall of Fame considerations.

Insights:

• The debate underscores the complex criteria for Hall of Fame induction, balancing individual accolades with team success.
• The conversation reflects broader discussions about legacy, impact, and the metrics used to evaluate player greatness.

6. Listener Mailbag: Various NFL Topics

Timestamp: 51:03 - 67:38

Key Points:

• Caleb Herbert vs. Jalen Herbert:
  Listeners inquire about the differing receptions of players like Cal Herbert, with the hosts analyzing performance metrics and team support.

• Building a Team in Business vs. NFL Team Building:
  Colin Cowherd shares insights on selecting team members based on qualities like vision, consistency, humility, hunger, and passion, drawing parallels between sports team management and business team building.

• Draft Strategies for the Chicago Bears:
  Advice is given on how the Bears should approach the draft, emphasizing defensive needs over offensive investments like running backs.

• Impact of Cold Weather on NFL Teams:
  Discussion on how teams from cold-weather regions value players with specific physical attributes, particularly quarterbacks who can perform under adverse conditions.

Notable Quotes:

• John Middlekauff: "I think the Cowboys can only have three max players on the whole team. Like, that's just bad business."
• Colin Cowherd: "They’ll give you one less day they play. Just rotate them all and they play on Thursday."
• John Middlekauff: "Matt Ryan’s one MVP award should equal Elway, Peyton Manning, and Terry Bradshaw."

Insights:

• Listener questions provide a platform for in-depth analysis of player performance, team strategies, and broader NFL trends.
• The mailbag segments offer diverse perspectives, enriching the conversation with real-world concerns and strategic considerations.

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The episode wraps up with a thoughtful reflection on the dynamic nature of the NFL, the challenges of team management, and the ongoing evolution of the game through rule changes and strategic innovations. John and Colin emphasize the importance of adaptability, strategic planning, and balancing individual talent with team cohesion to navigate the competitive landscape of professional football.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd (05:21): "He's aging, of course, he's in his 80s."
• John Middlekauff (07:02): "There's a lot of validity to that statement. You are better off paying a little bit more and being happy with your purchase."
• Colin Cowherd (22:49): "They're not going to do that once training camp hits."
• John Middlekauff (28:16): "Anyone can do it. You just don't happen to have a quarterback that squats 600 pounds."
• Colin Cowherd (37:04): "Matt Ryan's one MVP should equal Elway, Manning, and Terry Bradshaw."
• John Middlekauff (51:18): "Can we start being fair when talking about the guy who has shown flashes of a late game clutch gene?"

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a deep dive into the strategic and managerial aspects of the NFL, blending expert analysis with passionate debate. From the implications of an aging owner to controversial rule changes and the ever-evolving landscape of player contracts, listeners are provided with a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping today's football. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, this episode delivers valuable insights and engaging discussions that capture the essence of modern NFL discourse.