Summary of "Hour 1 - The Browns might pass on Shedeur Sanders"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
• Description: The Herd with Colin Cowherd is a thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day.
• Episode: Hour 1 - The Browns might pass on Shedeur Sanders
• Release Date: April 11, 2025

1. Introduction and Breaking News

At the outset of the episode, host Jason McIntyre (filling in for Colin Cowherd) kicks off with an energetic introduction, setting the tone for a "spicy Friday" on the show.

Notable Quote:

• [02:46] Alex Curry: "Is that aqua Turquoise. But you could go. You could go aqua. You're not far off. It can have many. It's a feel good Friday color."

2. Cleveland Browns' Quarterback Strategy

The primary focus of the episode revolves around the Cleveland Browns' recent decision to sign veteran quarterback Joe Flacco and the implications this has on their draft strategy, particularly concerning Shedeur Sanders.

Key Points:

• Signing Joe Flacco: The Browns have secured Joe Flacco on a 1-year, $4 million contract. Flacco, a seasoned quarterback, previously won the comeback player of the year with the Browns in 2023.

  Quote:

  • [32:33] Jason McIntyre: "The Browns are bringing back a familiar face back into the quarterback room. Joe Flacco is signing with the Browns on a 1-year, 4 million contract."

• Passing on Shedeur Sanders: Contrary to expectations where many anticipated the Browns to draft Shedeur Sanders second overall, the team appears to be passing on him.

  Quote:

  • [04:15] Jason McIntyre: "Cleveland is drafting second overall and for the longest time, I and many others had Shedeur Sanders penciled in for Cleveland... The slide is beginning. It's starting to sound like Cleveland is not going to go Shadore Sanders 2 in the draft."

• Analyst Perspectives: NFL draft analyst Dane Brugler offers a nuanced view on Shedeur's prospects, suggesting he might slide into the mid-first round or even the 20s due to concerns about his playing style and decision-making under pressure.

  Quote:

  • [05:28] Dane Brugler: "Maybe not as accurate as 74% completions would lead you to believe... I wouldn't be surprised if we're talking mid first round, maybe even in the 20s."

• Implications for the Browns: The Browns' approach indicates a preference for stability and experience at the quarterback position over investing high picks in a new talent, possibly hinting at internal evaluations of team needs and dynamics.

3. Kansas City Chiefs' Offseason and Playoff Predictions

McIntyre transitions to discussing the Kansas City Chiefs, expressing skepticism about their offseason moves and projecting that they might miss the playoffs in the upcoming season.

Key Points:

• Offseason Moves: The Chiefs have been criticized for minimal improvements, notably in strengthening their offensive line. Their significant signing, Jaylon Moore, is seen as underwhelming given he's a fifth-round pick.

  Quote:

  • [06:23] Jason McIntyre: "Their biggest signing was Jaylon Moore. Who, Fifth rounder out of Western Michigan, who was a backup in San Francisco."

• Travis Kelsey's Performance: The host highlights Travis Kelsey's declining performance, noting his career lows and questioning his future contributions.

  Quote:

  • [06:55] Jason McIntyre: "Travis Kelsey, career low. Three touchdown catches."

• Playoff Prediction: McIntyre boldly predicts that the Chiefs will not make the playoffs next season, citing roster stagnation and divisional competition.

  Quote:

  • [07:50] Jason McIntyre: "It's mid April before the draft. I don't think the Kansas City Chiefs are a playoff team next year."

• Counterpoint by Alex Curry: Alex Curry disagrees, asserting the Chiefs remain a strong dynasty due to Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid's leadership.

  Quote:

  • [15:40] Alex Curry: "The Chiefs are still a dynasty... Patrick Mahomes, one of the greatest quarterbacks in our game right now and Andy Reid, the best quarterback coach duo."

4. Los Angeles Lakers' Playoff Prospects and Matchups

The discussion shifts to the Los Angeles Lakers, with McIntyre analyzing their playoff positioning and potential opponents.

Key Points:

• Playoff Seeding: The Lakers are anticipated to secure the third seed, setting up a first-round matchup against either the Golden State Warriors or the Los Angeles Clippers.

  Quote:

  • [16:40] Jason McIntyre: "They look like the Lakers will open the playoffs against either the warriors or the Clippers."

• Preferred Opponent: McIntyre prefers the Lakers face the Clippers over the Warriors, citing strategic advantages despite acknowledging the Clippers' improving form.

  Quote:

  • [22:19] Wendy's Representative (Ad): "Might be the second best team in the West."

• Alex Curry's Perspective: Alex counters by emphasizing the Chiefs' dynasty status, suggesting resilient teams like the Clippers remain formidable postseason contenders.

5. Bill Belichick Coaching College Football

A surprising segment covers Bill Belichick's new role as a college football coach at North Carolina, highlighting his coaching style and its impact on the team.

Key Points:

• Belichick's Transition: Belichick brings his extensive NFL coaching experience to the college level, focusing on developing young quarterbacks and instilling a strategic mindset.

  Quote:

  • [27:06] Alex Curry: "They are so lucky to have a brain and a mind like Bill leading this team."

• Team Performance: Current performance metrics and schedule indicate potential growth under Belichick's leadership, though skepticism remains about immediate playoff contention.

  Quote:

  • [29:14] Jason McIntyre: "Assuming Belichick knows what he's doing... Creating a very manageable schedule."

6. Pittsburgh Panthers’ Quarterback Consistency with Bryce Young

McIntyre examines the Pittsburgh Panthers' decision to retain the same starting quarterback, head coach, and general manager for consecutive seasons, emphasizing the importance of consistency.

Key Points:

• Team Stability: The Panthers avoid the turbulence of previous seasons by maintaining key leadership positions.

  Quote:

  • [30:00] Alex Curry: "The same staff and so much on the offensive side is staying the same."

• Performance Improvement: The Panthers show marked improvement from a 5-12 record to greater competitiveness within their division.

  Quote:

  • [30:20] Jason McIntyre: "They went 5-12, but those five wins came towards the end of the season."

• Future Outlook: Optimism surrounds Bryce Young's development, though challenges persist in maximizing team potential.

7. NBA Discussions: Houston Rockets’ Success and Future Prospects

In a noteworthy deviation, the conversation veers into the NBA, spotlighting the Houston Rockets' unexpected success under coach IME Udoka.

Key Points:

• Rockets' Performance: The Rockets have emerged as a formidable team, blending veteran experience with young talent, emphasizing strong defensive play.

  Quote:

  • [40:00] Podcast Host (Rockets Representative): "He's turning things around very quickly. It's been really exciting."

• Dylan Brooks' Persona: The discussion highlights Dylan Brooks' on-court intensity contrasted with his off-court demeanor, contributing to the team's dynamic.

  Quote:

  • [42:20] Podcast Host (Rockets Representative): "He's a total sweetheart off the court. The villain thing truly is an on-court persona."

• Team Leadership: Fred Van Vliet's influence and the collective team ethos of selflessness are credited for the Rockets' success.

  Quote:

  • [44:22] Podcast Host: "Fred's an extension of the coaching staff. I would definitely call Fred the leader."

• Playoff Potential: The Rockets are seen as dark horses capable of reaching the NBA Finals, with analysts noting their depth and strategic gameplay.

  Quote:

  • [49:21] Podcast Host: "I would not be shocked. They're playing in games where they have to win down the stretch... They're playing in blowouts and come-from-behind victories."

8. Closing Remarks and Future Topics

As the episode wraps up, McIntyre teases upcoming topics, including Ja Morant's situation with the Memphis Grizzlies and Lakers' playoff strategies against the Warriors and Clippers.

Notable Quote:

• [50:45] Jason McIntyre: "Coming up next, is Ja Morant trying to get himself shipped out of Memphis? What the hell is with this new grenade celebration?"

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd delves deeply into the Cleveland Browns' strategic decisions regarding their quarterback roster, highlighting potential shifts in draft plans and the integration of veteran players like Joe Flacco. The discussion extends to broader NFL topics, including the Kansas City Chiefs' offseason moves and playoff prospects, alongside analyses of NBA teams like the Houston Rockets and their surprising rise. Engaging commentary, backed by expert opinions and bold predictions, offers listeners a comprehensive look into the current state and future trajectories of key sports franchises.