The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Detailed Summary of "Hour 2 - More on the NFL Draft"

Released on April 25, 2025, "Hour 2 - More on the NFL Draft" of The Herd with Colin Cowherd delves deep into the intricacies of the recent NFL Draft. Hosted by Colin Cowherd alongside experts Jason McIntyre, Albert Breer, and Dan Orlovsky, the episode offers comprehensive analysis, insightful discussions, and expert opinions on team strategies, key player selections, and the broader trends influencing this year's draft.

1. Pittsburgh Steelers and the Quarterback Conundrum

The discussion kicks off with a critical analysis of the Pittsburgh Steelers' draft decisions, particularly their move away from selecting a quarterback in the second round.

• Shador Sanders Debate: Albert Breer highlights that "professional scouts get it wrong a lot too," referencing the Steelers' decision not to draft Shador Sanders in the second round ([03:50]). Breer emphasizes the rarity of second-round quarterbacks becoming starters, citing historical challenges teams face in this regard.

• Mason Rudolph's Role: The conversation shifts to Mason Rudolph and Skyler Thompson, the current quarterbacks for the Steelers. Breer states, “There’s no substitute for young talent,” underscoring the importance of Rudolph’s development alongside seasoned players like Cam Heyward ([05:25]).

• Colin Cowherd's Critique: Colin expresses skepticism about the Steelers' strategy, arguing, “If you don’t draft him, we get to see a better draft pick next year,” and emphasizes the risks of drafting a quarterback without full confidence in his starter potential ([05:43]).

• Dan Orlovsky's Insight: Orlovsky agrees, noting the “opportunity cost” of drafting a quarterback early. He references historical examples, such as Jimmy Clausen and Baker Mayfield, to illustrate the potential pitfalls and long-term impacts of such decisions ([17:00], [19:37]).

Notable Quote:

"If you take a quarterback in the first round, it takes you off the quarterback market for the next two to three years." – Dan Orlovsky ([21:29])

2. New York Giants' Strategic Moves

Albert Breer and Dan Orlovsky dissect the Giants' recent draft maneuvers, especially their acquisition of the number two pick.

• Drafting for Necessity: Breer posits that the Giants likely moved up to secure a quarterback, suggesting that without this move, the Giants might have had to "fake it for two years" with an uncertain pick ([07:24]).

• Trade Dynamics: Orlovsky elaborates on the complexities of trade negotiations, mentioning that “teams were trying to sell off picks, taking advantage of those teams at the top of the second round that didn’t have quarterbacks” ([09:37]).

• Colin’s Take: Colin criticizes the Giants, stating, “I'm not a fan, it's a pretty bad move against the wall," reflecting his disapproval of prioritizing a quarterback over other positions ([09:37]).

Notable Quote:

"There are way more sellers and we can go find ourselves a deal." – Dan Orlovsky ([07:24])

3. Chicago Bears and Tight End Selection

The Bears' decision to draft Colston Love over Tyler Warren sparks a lively debate among the hosts.

• Positional Value: Jason McIntyre contrasts Love's dynamic receiving abilities with Warren's traditional tight end skills, noting, “Loveland is a more unique prospect... He’ll go out wide. He’ll beat a corner,” while Warren is “better blocker” ([23:04], [23:22]).

• Impact of NIL: Dan Orlovsky discusses how Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have complicated character assessments, leading teams to favor players like Love, who “checks every box from a character standpoint” ([13:18], [13:29]).

• Strategic Fit: The team’s offensive line investments and quarterback protection strategies are analyzed, with McIntyre appreciating, “a quarterback with a substantial run game” and how Love complements that system ([14:12]).

Notable Quote:

"If you draft a quarterback there and he's not the guy, then you have to fake it for two years." – Jason McIntyre ([05:43])

4. Cleveland Browns’ Quarterback Strategy

The Browns, holding the first pick, are under scrutiny regarding their quarterback strategy.

• Options on the Board: Orlovsky suggests that Cleveland has viable options, including Shador Sanders and Tyler Schuck, indicating flexibility in their approach ([16:56], [17:01]).

• Strategic Patience: The hosts discuss the potential for Cleveland to either draft a quarterback immediately or trade down to acquire more picks, with McIntyre leaning towards patience, allowing for future opportunities ([16:56], [16:56]).

Notable Quote:

"Cleveland's in a good spot because if you want a quarterback, you got to come to them now." – Dan Orlovsky ([16:56])

5. Green Bay Packers' Wide Receiver Acquisition

The Packers' decision to draft Matthew Golden is analyzed, focusing on bolstering their already deep wide receiver roster.

• Depth of Receivers: Albert Breer praises the Packers, mentioning, “They might have the best wide receiver room in the league” due to existing talents like Jaden Reed and Christian Watson ([37:23], [37:51]).

• Strategic Necessity: The necessity of adding a wide receiver is underscored by Watson’s injuries, prompting the Packers to secure a dependable addition in Golden ([37:46]).

Notable Quote:

"In Green Bay, I trust them. I think last 20 years they draft as well as anybody." – Jason McIntyre ([38:10])

6. Las Vegas Raiders’ Defensive Reinforcement

The Raiders’ selection of Amaar Hampton is lauded as a strategic move to strengthen their defense.

• Foundational Piece: Dan Orlovsky refers to Hampton as a “foundational piece,” highlighting his unique talent and how he embodies the physical, tough defensive identity the Raiders are cultivating ([33:22], [34:05]).

• Team Synergy: The integration of Hampton alongside existing players like Najee Harris and Geno Smith is discussed, emphasizing a balanced offense and fortified defense ([35:43], [36:07]).

Notable Quote:

"Amarian Hampton from UNC is a power back with speed. Now he's got two star backs." – Jason McIntyre ([37:00])

7. Draft Trends and Observations

Beyond individual team strategies, the hosts touch upon broader trends influencing the draft.

• Character Over Recent Performance: There’s a noticeable shift towards prioritizing character and off-field attributes, especially with the complexities introduced by NIL deals ([13:20], [13:44]).

• Second and Third Round Value: Emphasis is placed on the strength of these rounds, particularly for tight ends and wide receivers, suggesting teams are carefully navigating beyond the first round to secure impactful players ([23:29], [36:21]).

• Impact of Inflation and Valuation: The discussion includes how certain positions, like offensive linemen, remain highly valued due to their limited pool of elite players, with Jason stating, “You’re never gonna hear me criticize teams for drafting offensive linemen in the first round” ([24:09]).

Notable Quote:

"This was almost like the screw it draft. Screw it, I'm just going to take the guy I like." – Dan Orlovsky ([12:18])

8. Predictions and Final Thoughts

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts make predictions and reflect on the draft’s implications.

• Division Standings: Predictions are made about how divisions might rank based on their draft outcomes, with particular focus on the Packers and Bears within their divisions ([37:54], [38:25]).

• Overall Draft Assessment: The draft is characterized as one where teams like the Steelers "pick players they're willing to live with," whereas others make moves based on immediate needs and character assurances ([19:37], [21:29]).

• Future Implications: The strategic decisions made during this draft are projected to have long-term impacts on team performances, playoff prospects, and overall league dynamics ([37:24], [38:39]).

Notable Quote:

"This is a screw it draft where it was like, yeah, you know, like in a normal year I'd want this guy five or ten picks later and maybe, you'd like to trade back and get a little more capital." – Dan Orlovsky ([13:18])

Conclusion

"Hour 2 - More on the NFL Draft" provides listeners with a thorough examination of the current NFL Draft’s pivotal moments and strategic decisions. Through dynamic discussions and expert analyses, Colin Cowherd and his panel unpack the ramifications of each team's choices, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of how this draft shapes the future of their favorite franchises. Not only does the episode dissect individual selections, but it also contextualizes them within broader league trends and strategic frameworks, making it an invaluable resource for NFL enthusiasts eager to grasp the full scope of the draft's impact.