Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2: "Rodgers...Like a STD"

Release Date: February 12, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the discussion centers around NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, his recent departure from the New York Jets, and the potential future teams that might acquire him. The title, "Rodgers...Like a STD," alludes to the controversial and rapid nature of Rodgers' movement in the league.

2. Aaron Rodgers' Departure from the Jets

[20:15] Covino:
"The way we see it is the Jets were sort of forcing his hand out of that relationship."

Covino initiates the conversation by highlighting the Jets' role in pushing Aaron Rodgers to leave the team. The analogy suggests that the Jets attempted to make Rodgers exit gracefully, positioning themselves as the aggrieved party without portraying Rodgers negatively.

[22:30] Rich Davis:
"He's Aaron Rodgers. He's not going to take that weak ass deal."

Rich emphasizes Rodgers' stature in the league, asserting that Rodgers would not accept a subpar contract, hinting at his bargaining power and the high expectations he holds for his next move.

3. Potential Destinations for Aaron Rodgers

The panel explores various NFL teams that might be interested in signing Rodgers, deliberating on the pros and cons of each potential move.

A. AFC Teams

• Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns

  [25:45] Covino:
  "No, no way to the Colts and no way to Houston."

  Covino dismisses several AFC teams, suggesting that none of them are fitting options for Rodgers at this stage of his career.

• Indianapolis Colts

  [30:10] Dan Byer:
  "If Anthony Richardson is healthy, they can use some veteran leadership just like Flacco."

  Byer considers the Colts a viable option due to their interest in Anthony Richardson and the potential for Rodgers to provide mentorship.

B. NFC Teams

• New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings

  [35:20] Rich Davis:
  "Or scoop them up so Tommy DeVito could learn from behind him."

  The Giants are discussed as a potential fit for Rodgers, especially in fostering young talent like Tommy DeVito.

• Seattle Seahawks

  The possibility of Rodgers joining an NFC team like the Seahawks is briefly touched upon, considering the existing quarterback dynamics.

C. Speculative Options

• Pittsburgh Steelers

  [38:50] Dan Byer:
  "Chip Kelly is back at the NFL. Pete Carroll's back with the Raiders."

  The Steelers emerge as a strong candidate due to their coaching stability and Rodgers' potential role in a well-structured team.

• Las Vegas Raiders

  Discussions include the Raiders' interest in framing Rodgers within a high-profile organization, although skepticism remains about their commitment.

4. Panel Opinions and Insights

The panelists share their perspectives on Rodgers' best possible next move, weighing team performance, coaching, and Rodgers' personal preferences.

[40:30] Covino:
"Honestly, I think he shouldn't play. But I saw Photoshop and I was convinced."

Covino expresses doubt about Rodgers continuing to play, suggesting retirement as a considerate option given his age and past injuries.

[42:15] Rich Davis:
"If he has gas in the tank, that's great. Not everyone ends their career like Elway or Brady."

Rich acknowledges Rodgers' potential desire to continue playing but notes the rarity of long-term success akin to legends like Elway or Brady.

5. Rapid Fire: Team Suitability

The panel engages in a rapid-fire segment, quickly assessing the suitability of various teams for Rodgers.

[45:00] Covino:
"Bills? No way."

[45:20] Rich Davis:
"Dolphins? No."

[45:40] Dan Byer:
"Colts, Vikings, Giants, Saints."

The segment underscores the limited and specific options considered viable for Rodgers, emphasizing teams with strong leadership and organizational support.

6. Audience Interaction and Feedback

Listeners contribute their opinions on Rodgers' potential moves, adding diverse viewpoints to the discussion.

[50:10] Listener "Hoss in Maine":
"Giants are Raiders, Vikings have sort of. That was what I was thinking."

[52:30] Listener "Todd in Green Bay":
"Pittsburgh is going to draft Dark Jackson Dart. We're going to sit behind Rodgers for two years."

These interactions highlight the community's engagement and the widespread interest in Rodgers' future.

7. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the panel reaffirming their narrowed-down list of potential teams for Aaron Rodgers, emphasizing the Colts, Vikings, Giants, and Saints as the most plausible options. The discussion concludes on the note that Rodgers' future remains uncertain, with the possibility of retirement still on the table.

[58:45] Covino:
"It's horrible how the fans are reacting, but we’re just telling you the story."

Covino reflects on the intense fan reactions to the Jets' handling of Rodgers' departure, drawing parallels to personal heartbreak scenarios.

Notable Quotes

• Covino [20:15]:
  "The Jets were sort of forcing his hand out of that relationship."

• Rich Davis [22:30]:
  "He's Aaron Rodgers. He's not going to take that weak ass deal."

• Dan Byer [30:10]:
  "If Anthony Richardson is healthy, they can use some veteran leadership just like Flacco."

• Covino [40:30]:
  "Honestly, I think he shouldn't play. But I saw Photoshop and I was convinced."

Final Thoughts

This episode provides an in-depth analysis of Aaron Rodgers' potential exit from the Jets and explores the subsequent options available to him. The panel offers insightful perspectives on team dynamics, Rodgers' career trajectory, and the broader implications for both Rodgers and the teams involved. Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding one of the NFL's most prominent quarterbacks.