Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Hour 2 - Aaron Rodgers keeps dropping hints, Matt Hasselbeck
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Guests: Matt Hasselbeck, Various Contributors
Duration: Approximately 38 minutes

1. Introduction

The Herd with Colin Cowherd kicks off Hour 2 with discussions centered around Aaron Rodgers' potential move, Matt Hasselbeck joining the conversation, and various insights into current sports narratives.

2. Caitlin Clark's Injury and Its Implications

• Timestamp: [27:58]

  A guest raises concerns about Caitlin Clark's recent injury, stating, "She's gonna be out at least two weeks" due to a left quad strain sustained during a game against Indiana Fever.

• Impact on Team:

  Clark was averaging 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, playing a pivotal role in the Fever's performance. With the team holding a 2-2 record, her absence is expected to influence upcoming key matchups, including national TV games against Washington and Chicago.

• Speculation:

  The guest speculates on the timing of the injury, suggesting it might be strategic to "cool down" the rivalry tensions between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, though this is dismissed by Jason McIntyre as unlikely without concrete evidence.

3. Aaron Rodgers' Future and Potential Move to Minnesota

• Timestamp: [03:12]

  The conversation delves into Aaron Rodgers' hints about his future, with Matt Hasselbeck questioning the longevity of the "tush push" play and its future in the NFL.

• Colin's Perspective:

  Colin Cowherd expresses skepticism about Rodgers signing with Pittsburgh, stating, "I believe I said it on your show. Aaron Rodgers is going to be with the Pittsburgh Steelers."

• Matt's Analysis:

  Matt Hasselbeck adds, "If he goes to Pittsburgh, I think they win one more game than they are now." He emphasizes Rodgers' aging and questions whether Pittsburgh is a suitable fit compared to other organizations like Minnesota, New Orleans, or Baltimore.

• Key Quote:

  Colin Cowherd at [12:32]: "Aaron Rodgers is going to be with the Pittsburgh Steelers... the music's about to stop soon here, and he's going to have to sit down or get out."

4. PFF's Quarterback Rankings and Their Accuracy

• Timestamp: [05:23]

  PFF released its latest quarterback rankings, placing Dak Prescott at 17th, just ahead of Tua Tagovailoa.

• Host's Take:

  Jason McIntyre concurs with PFF's evaluation, remarking, "as a thrower of the football... Dak Prescott... especially after a second major surgery, in the middle of the pack."

• Notable Insights:

  The discussion acknowledges the blend of Peterson's intangibles like maturity and leadership against his physical performance metrics, validating PFF's comprehensive approach.

5. Austin Reaves and Jeremy Fowler: Correcting Misconceptions

• Timestamp: [07:09]

  Jason McIntyre critiques Colin's stance on Austin Reaves, arguing that Reaves is undervalued and should be viewed as a key player capable of elevating a championship-level team.

• Colin's Counterpoint:

  While acknowledging differing views, Colin concedes, "I can take it wrong on that," indicating openness to alternative perspectives.

• Jeremy Fowler's Potential:

  The conversation shifts to Jeremy Fowler, with Jason expressing skepticism about his fit with the Eagles, though Colin remains cautiously optimistic about his integration.

6. NBA Western Finals Ratings: Minnesota vs. OKC

• Timestamp: [08:44]

  The NBA Western Finals between Minnesota and Oklahoma City is criticized for low ratings, deemed "a ratings dud."

• Host's Observation:

  Colin Cowherd points out, "SGA is not a dynamic player," and notes the small market size contributing to the lackluster viewership.

• Historical Context:

  References to the Spurs under Tim Duncan highlight that even successful teams can lack broad appeal if lacking big personalities.

7. Kenny Pickett's Prospects with the Cleveland Browns

• Timestamp: [09:30]

  Jason McIntyre expresses doubt about Kenny Pickett securing the Cleveland Browns' quarterback position, citing his inconsistent performance and lack of franchise quarterback traits.

• Host's Skepticism:

  Colin Cowherd emphasizes, "I don't think he's a franchise quarterback," suggesting Shador Sanders as a more likely candidate.

• Concerns Raised:

  The discussion highlights Pickett's limited touchdowns and interceptions, questioning his ability to lead and perform under pressure.

8. Caleb Williams' Development and Future with Ben Johnson

• Timestamp: [15:53]

  Matt Hasselbeck joins the discussion to explore the development timeline for Caleb Williams under new coaching.

• Expert Opinion:

  Colin Cowherd advocates for patience, noting, "I would have patience with him... it's a team game," while acknowledging the challenges posed by a tough upcoming schedule against defenses like Chicago's.

• Strategic Outlook:

  The focus is on whether the new coaching regime can harness Williams' potential, with an emphasis on long-term growth rather than immediate results.

9. Rich Paul's Commentary on LeBron James and the Lakers

• Timestamp: [40:45]

  Rich Paul discusses LeBron James' influence within the Lakers, revealing that despite his status, LeBron does not "run the team" as certain decisions occurred without his knowledge.

• Jason's Analysis:

  Jason McIntyre emphasizes the importance of distinct roles in team management, stating, "Owner should own. GM should manage. Coaches should coach, players should play."

• Key Insights:

  The conversation underscores the potential pitfalls of blurred lines between player influence and team management, using LeBron's tenure as a case study.

10. Concluding Thoughts and Future Predictions

• Timestamp: [51:14]

  The hosts and guests share predictions for the upcoming sports season, discussing potential underperforming teams like the Detroit Lions and evaluating coaching decisions impacting team success.

• Strategic Focus:

  Emphasis is placed on the critical role of coaches and coordinators in shaping team dynamics and performance outcomes.

• Future Bets:

  Plans to continue making "future bets" on teams that might outperform or underperform their projected standings, with a focus on optimism and strategic analysis.

Notable Quotes

• Jason McIntyre at [07:09]: "I see him as a guy that should be the fourth best player on a championship level team."
• Colin Cowherd at [12:32]: "Aaron Rodgers is going to be with the Pittsburgh Steelers... the music's about to stop soon here, and he's going to have to sit down or get out."
• Jason McIntyre at [35:34]: "Sports is a cr."

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides in-depth discussions on pivotal sports topics, including major player movements, team strategies, and the intricate dynamics between coaching and management. With insights from Matt Hasselbeck and other contributors, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the current sports landscape, enriched by expert opinions and strategic foresight.