Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2: NFL Draft

Release Date: April 23, 2025 | Host: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction to Hour 2

At 02:25, the podcast transitions from advertisements to the main content as Jason McIntyre kicks off Hour 2 with enthusiasm, highlighting the impending NFL Draft and setting the stage for in-depth discussions.

Opening Remarks and Guest Introduction

Jason McIntyre initiates the conversation by mentioning the excitement surrounding the upcoming NFL Draft, referencing the sizzling series between the Warriors and Rockets. He introduces Lance Zerlein, a seasoned NFL draft analyst with 24 years of experience, joining the studio for detailed insights.

"It's a great series. One team can't shoot but has all the athletes. The other team's old and can so that'll be game two tonight."
— Jason McIntyre [05:57]

Lance Zerlein responds positively, expressing his anticipation for the series and the draft analysis.

Quarterback Class Analysis

The discussion swiftly moves to the quarterback class, comparing the current year with the previous one. Lance Zerlein provides a critical perspective, stating that this year's quarterback class is "terrible. It's not even close to last year's." (06:12). He highlights Cam Ward as a viable option, equating his grade to that of Bo Nix, and discusses the rise of Shador Sanders into the first-round conversation—something he didn't foresee last year.

"There's only been six quarterbacks drafted in the second round over the last 10 years... You're either a starter or you're a backup."
— Lance Zerlein [06:55]

Jason McIntyre brings up Travion Henderson from Ohio State, emphasizing his undervalued potential compared to his peers like Genti and Hampton. Zerlein agrees, recognizing Henderson as a significant difference-maker with explosive play potential.

"He has that ability. If you look at him versus Quinshawn Judkins, the same exact offensive line, he averaged like 1.8 yards more per carry than Judkins."
— Lance Zerlein [08:01]

Draft Strategies and Player Evaluations

The conversation delves deeper into specific player evaluations and team strategies. McIntyre discusses Mason Graham, a player he highly regards, questioning scouts' assessments of him as "safe with a high floor" but with a "pretty limited" ceiling (10:58). Zerlein counters by highlighting Graham's qualities and comparing him to Walter Nolan, an explosive defensive tackle from Ole Miss.

"Walter Nolan is explosive on all three downs. He's disruptive in the backfield on first and second."
— Lance Zerlein [12:08]

They also explore the rising prominence of offensive coaches in the NFL and how this influences draft picks. McIntyre predicts multiple Travis Hunters emerging over the next two decades, likening their versatility to that of Shohei Otani.

"Very few people, even pro athletes on earth, have an energy like Travis Hunter."
— Jason McIntyre [18:34]

Zerlein adds a cautionary note about the physical toll of playing multiple positions, emphasizing the challenges Travis Hunter would face in balancing responsibilities.

"There's a physical component. He's played 2,600 snaps over the last two years. That's an entire career for any other college player."
— Lance Zerlein [19:14]

Player Comparisons and Team Needs

McIntyre continues by comparing Jackson Dart to other quarterbacks, questioning his first-round viability. Zerlein concurs, recalling Lance's previous disagreements on players like Matt Corral and emphasizing the impact of coaching perspectives in altering player evaluations.

"When you bring the coaches involved... that can change perception quite a bit."
— Lance Zerlein [16:28]

They discuss various quarterbacks, including Quinn Ewers, and analyze their fit within NFL systems. Zerlein points out that while Ewers is an elite athlete, his decision-making and accuracy are still under scrutiny.

Team-Specific Draft Needs and Predictions

The focus shifts to team-specific needs and potential draft strategies. McIntyre highlights the Giants' quarterback situation, expressing skepticism about drafting Shador Sanders in the first round. Zerlein provides insights into possible trades and the Giants' potential moves, predicting that Sanders might end up with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

"I don't think Shador Sanders is in play at three at all. I think he'd go 21st with the Pittsburgh Steelers."
— Lance Zerlein [09:07]

They also touch upon the 49ers' roster needs, emphasizing their defensive rebuild and the critical positions requiring attention in the draft.

"I think they could use another tight end, another running back, a right tackle."
— Jason McIntyre [35:31]

Notable Draft Picks and Mock Draft Predictions

As the draft approaches, McIntyre shares his mock draft strategy, indicating potential movements among Florida teams like the Jaguars and Dolphins. Zerlein contributes by discussing the intricacies of trades, advising teams to strategically time their moves to secure desired players without overcomplicating deals.

"When teams move up, they move in front of teams they think will draft the player they want."
— Jason McIntyre [48:20]

They also analyze specific players like Mason Taylor from LSU, praising his lineage and competitive nature, making him a valuable first-round target.

"He is a competitive, unending energy, as you mentioned."
— Lance Zerlein [14:22]

Closing Discussions and Final Thoughts

In the final segments, McIntyre and Zerlein recap key points about the draft, reiterating the importance of strategic picks and the impact of coaching decisions on player selections. McIntyre teases an upcoming detailed mock draft, promising to reveal strategic trades and pivotal player selections.

"I'm going to do another mock draft tomorrow. I have two NFC teams moving up."
— Jason McIntyre [40:38]

Zerlein concludes by emphasizing the unpredictability of the draft and the necessity for teams to remain adaptable.

"There's a lot of open one-on-one throws down the field and then there's a lot of stick routes."
— Lance Zerlein [46:21]

Conclusion

Hour 2 of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" provides an exhaustive analysis of the upcoming NFL Draft, featuring expert insights from Jason McIntyre and Lance Zerlein. The discussion covers quarterback class evaluations, team strategies, player potentials, and mock draft predictions, enriched with notable quotes and timestamped references. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for listeners eager to understand the intricacies of NFL Draft dynamics.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• “It's a great series. One team can't shoot but has all the athletes.”
  — Jason McIntyre [05:57]

• “There's only been six quarterbacks drafted in the second round over the last 10 years... You're either a starter or you're a backup.”
  — Lance Zerlein [06:55]

• “Walter Nolan is explosive on all three downs. He's disruptive in the backfield on first and second.”
  — Lance Zerlein [12:08]

• “Very few people, even pro athletes on earth, have an energy like Travis Hunter.”
  — Jason McIntyre [18:34]

• “When you bring the coaches involved... that can change perception quite a bit.”
  — Lance Zerlein [16:28]

• “He is a competitive, unending energy, as you mentioned.”
  — Lance Zerlein [14:22]

This structured and detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from Hour 2 of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," offering a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.