Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Best of The Herd"

Release Date: July 29, 2025
Host: Danny Parkins (filling in for Colin Cowherd)
Format: Long-form, detailed summary with key discussions, insights, and notable quotes.

1. Introduction and Season Outlook

Timestamp: [03:10] – [07:04]

In this episode, Danny Parkins takes the helm for Colin Cowherd, diving straight into a robust analysis of the upcoming NFL season. He begins by addressing what he considers the biggest boomer bust in the NFL: the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite previous predictions of consecutive losing seasons under head coach Mike Tomlin, Parkins expresses optimism about the Steelers' recent offseason moves.

"I have to also admit to you, for the last four years, consecutively I have predicted that the Steelers would have their first losing season under Mike Tomlinson. And I've been wrong time and time and time and time again." ([03:45])

Parkins highlights the Steelers' acquisition of Aaron Rodgers, emphasizing Rodgers' superior skills compared to previous quarterbacks like Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett. He discusses the strategic additions of John Who Smith and Jalen Warren, suggesting these moves inject much-needed versatility and depth into the Steelers' roster.

2. Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers' Future

Timestamp: [07:04] – [16:23]

Parkins delves deeper into the implications of Aaron Rodgers joining the Steelers, labeling Rodgers as a "mercenary" with a potentially one-year impact.

"It seems like a one year hired gun situation." ([07:12])

He raises concerns about the sustainability of this arrangement, questioning whether Rodgers' presence will lead to long-term success or merely act as a temporary boost. Parkins remains cautiously optimistic, believing that the Steelers could secure a playoff win and possibly break their playoff drought.

3. Justin Herbert's Quarterback Standings

Timestamp: [07:50] – [16:23]

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers. Parkins passionately defends Herbert's abilities, positioning him among the elite quarterbacks in the league.

"I am just so utterly convinced that this dude is a superstar and that he has been the victim of Anthony Lynn and Brandon Staley and bad special teams misses and incompetence and terrible injury luck around him." ([11:30])

He draws parallels between Herbert and Peyton Manning, suggesting Herbert is on a trajectory toward Hall of Fame greatness despite recent setbacks in playoff performances. Parkins emphasizes Herbert's statistical achievements and his potential to elevate the Chargers' offense under head coach Jim Harbaugh.

4. Tribute to Ryan Sandberg

Timestamp: [32:04] – [33:33]

Parkins shifts the conversation to honor the late Ryan Sandberg, the Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer who passed away at 65. He reflects on Sandberg's legacy, both on and off the field, sharing personal anecdotes about their connection.

"He was just a model of consistency. And he was a humble superstar." ([32:16])

Parkins recounts Sandberg’s emotional battle with cancer and his significant contributions to the Cubs’ community, highlighting a poignant moment when Sandberg announced being cancer-free during a radio broadcast before his untimely passing a year later.

5. Top 10 NFL Teams Heading into the Season

Timestamp: [20:28] – [41:04]

Danny Parkins presents his Top 10 NFL Teams for the upcoming season, providing detailed reasoning for each ranking:

1. Philadelphia Eagles: Touted as the best organization with a robust roster expected to achieve double-digit wins and significant playoff success.

2. Kansas City Chiefs: With an electric defense and improvements on the offensive line, Parkins predicts a strong Super Bowl run.

3. Detroit Lions: Highlighted for their offensive potential and hope for reduced defensive injuries.

4. Buffalo Bills: Recognized for their impressive point differential and Josh Allen's prowess, aiming to break through in the playoffs.

5. Baltimore Ravens: Despite last year's inconsistencies, Parkins believes their historic roster has the potential to excel.

6. Los Angeles Rams: Focused on their offensive line and key players like Stafford and Adams, with expectations of rising in the rankings.

7. Cincinnati Bengals: Emphasized as needing defensive improvements despite a high-powered offense.

8. San Francisco 49ers: Expected to bounce back with healthy key players and strategic offensive plays.

9. Washington Commanders: Viewed as a better team with a worse record from the previous season, riding on Jaden Daniels' superstar status.

10. Los Angeles Chargers: Centered on Justin Herbert's potential and the team's defensive strengths.

6. Discussion with Nick Wright on Team Rankings

Timestamp: [41:04] – [55:45]

Nick Wright joins the show to discuss his own Top 10 NFL Teams, which largely mirrors Parkins' list with minor variations. Their conversation delves into the reasoning behind their rankings, particularly focusing on the Cincinnati Bengals and San Francisco 49ers, debating potential improvements and challenges.

A heated segment emerges around the debate of Justin Herbert vs. Jalen Hurts as top quarterbacks:

Parkins argues for Herbert's talent and potential:

"This is the last stand because I fully acknowledge at some point the results need to be there in terms of team success." ([16:23])

Wright counters, emphasizing Herbert's inconsistent playoff performances:

"You've gone into the season not just talking about how good Herbert is, but how good the team is... but he has been bad in the big spot." ([46:22])

The debate highlights differing perspectives on evaluating quarterbacks based on potential versus proven performance, with Parkins advocating for patience and belief in Herbert's trajectory, while Wright stresses accountability and tangible accomplishments.

7. Luka Doncic and Athlete Conditioning

Timestamp: [18:17] – [55:45]

Shifting focus to the NBA, Parkins discusses Luka Doncic's recent Media appearances and physical conditioning:

"Luka Doncic is looking good, there is no doubt about it. We saw the pictures yesterday on the show..." ([20:28])

He critiques the media's portrayal of Doncic's offseason training, dissecting the narrative around his intermittent fasting and new workout routines. Parkins emphasizes Doncic's resilience and compares him to legends like LeBron James, arguing that despite public scrutiny, Doncic remains one of the top offensive players in the league.

8. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Timestamp: [55:45] – End

As the episode draws to a close, Parkins reflects on his growing collaboration with Nick Wright, expressing enthusiasm for their joint ventures on First Things First. He reiterates his optimism for Justin Herbert and the Chargers, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more in-depth sports analysis in future episodes.

Notable Quotes

• Danny Parkins on Steelers' Success:

  "If Mike Tomlin can get you a winning record with those quarterbacks, he should be able to do better with Aaron Rodgers." ([06:15])

• On Justin Herbert’s Potential:

  "Justin Herbert can do that and is on his way to doing that. And he could be one of the best throwers of the football that I've ever seen." ([16:23])

• Tribute to Ryan Sandberg:

  "He was the reason why many, many people in Chicago and frankly around the world became Cubs fans." ([32:07])

• Debate on Quarterback Rankings:

  Parkins: "This is the last stand because I fully acknowledge at some point the results need to be there in terms of team success." ([16:23])
  Wright: "He has been bad in the big spot and he's five years into his career." ([46:22])

Conclusion

The "Best of The Herd" episode offers a comprehensive dive into NFL team rankings, quarterback performance debates, and a heartfelt tribute to a legendary MLB figure. Danny Parkins, alongside guest Nick Wright, provides insightful analysis and passionate discourse, ensuring listeners are well-informed about the latest sports narratives and season expectations.