Summary of "Hour 2 - The Top 10 NFL QBs" Episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Release Date: July 28, 2025

In the "Hour 2 - The Top 10 NFL QBs" episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Danny Parkins delves deep into the current landscape of NFL quarterbacks, offering his expert analysis and ranking. The episode also touches upon significant developments in college football, including a major health update on Deion Sanders and contractual discussions surrounding NFL players. Below is a detailed summary of the key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions presented throughout the episode.

1. Introduction to the Top 10 NFL Quarterbacks

Timestamp: 05:00 - 18:45

Danny Parkins takes the helm in Colin Cowherd's absence, presenting his comprehensive list of the top 10 NFL quarterbacks heading into the 2025 season. He begins by discussing the Philadelphia Eagles and their quarterback, Jalen Hurts.

• Jalen Hurts (#10): Parkins praises Hurts for his clutch performances, leadership, and football intelligence. He acknowledges the strong supporting cast around Hurts, stating, "Jalen Hurts playing not one, but two, not good, but great Super Bowls obviously is incredibly valuable" (05:30). However, he questions whether Hurts deserves to be ranked higher, suggesting that his success is significantly aided by his team's exceptional lineup.

Parkins then proceeds to rank the quarterbacks from number 10 to number 1, providing insights into each player's performance, strengths, and areas for improvement.

• Number 9: Baker Mayfield
  Described as "the poster child for patience," Mayfield has consistently been within the top 10, leading in passing touchdowns and yards.

• Number 8: Jared Goff
  Highlighted for his ability to adapt to different franchises, Goff has achieved career highs with both the Rams and the Lions.

• Number 7: Jaden Daniels
  Recognized for an outstanding rookie season, Daniels is poised to make a significant impact if he continues his trajectory.

• Number 6: Matt Stafford
  Stafford's transition to the Rams has reinvigorated his performance, making him a top contender despite concerns about the offensive line.

• Number 5: Justin Herbert
  Positioned alongside Stafford, Herbert is praised for his statistics and consistency, drawing comparisons to Peyton Manning.

• Number 4: Lamar Jackson
  Jackson's dual-threat capability and impressive passing statistics secure his place, despite lacking recent MVP honors.

• Number 3: Joe Burrow
  Burrow is lauded for his high passer rating and leadership, though concerns remain about his defense's performance.

• Number 2: Josh Allen
  Allen is highlighted as a top-tier quarterback, second only to Patrick Mahomes in several key metrics.

• Number 1: Patrick Mahomes
  Mahomes remains at the pinnacle, with Parkins stating, "Mahomes is still on that Brady track... He'll just add more to his trophy case" (17:55).

2. Deion Sanders' Health Update and Coaching at Colorado

Timestamp: 18:45 - 43:49

The episode transitions to significant news in college football: Deion Sanders' announcement regarding his health.

• Deion Sanders' Diagnosis: Sanders revealed he underwent a robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder removal due to a cancerous tumor. The surgery was successful, and doctors have declared the cancer eradicated. Sanders lost 25 pounds during his battle and the complications from surgery.

  "We performed a full robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder removal and creation of a new bladder. And I am pleased to report that he is cured from the cancer."
  — Medical Team, Deion Sanders Press Conference (25:30)

• Danny Parkins' Reflection: Parkins expresses admiration for Sanders' courage in being public about his health struggles, emphasizing the positive impact it can have on awareness and early detection.

• Impact on Coaching: Sanders' return signals continuity for the Colorado Buffaloes, though Parkins questions how Sanders will balance coaching responsibilities with his personal life, especially regarding his son in the NFL.

3. NFL Contracts and Shemar Stewart Situation

Timestamp: 43:49 - 36:10

Danny Parkins shifts focus to NFL contracts, highlighting controversies and player-team negotiations.

• Shemar Stewart and the Bengals: The Bengals introduced contract language unique to Shemar Stewart, concerning voided guarantees if he encounters legal troubles off the field. Stewart's agent opposed these terms, arguing they set a negative precedent. The dispute was eventually resolved with Stewart receiving an additional $500,000 in signing bonuses. Parkins criticizes the Bengals' approach, labeling them as "cheap" and inconsistent.

  "The Bengals are trying to set a precedent and Shemar Stewart's agent doesn't want to acquiesce to a precedent because he's trying to sign next year's Shemar Stewart."
  — Danny Parkins (29:15)

• General NFL Contract Trends: Parkins elaborates on the high stakes of NFL contracts, the lack of guarantees compared to other sports, and the resultant tensions during negotiations. He underscores the importance of guaranteed money for players in such a physically demanding and injury-prone sport.

4. Conversation with Bruce Feldman

Timestamp: 43:49 - 43:51

Bruce Feldman, Fox Sports' college football reporter and New York Times bestselling author, joins the discussion to provide expert insights.

• Deion Sanders' Recovery: Feldman describes the severity of Sanders' surgery and the potential for cancer recurrence. He notes Sanders' dedication and the impact of his health on the Colorado Buffaloes' upcoming season.

  "It's pretty jolting just to hear how serious this was... he is cured from the cancer."
  — Bruce Feldman (34:42)

• Colorado's Upcoming Season: Feldman anticipates a rebuild for Colorado, noting the departure of key players like Travis Hunter. He discusses the team's new quarterbacks, Cadence Salter and Juju Lewis, and predicts a challenging season opener against Georgia Tech.

• Texas vs. Ohio State Showdown: Feldman analyzes the impending clash between Texas and Ohio State, favoring the home team, Ohio State, due to their strong offensive and defensive players.

  "With such star power, I would give the edge to Ohio State at the start of the year, at least."
  — Bruce Feldman (38:55)

• Future of Nick Saban: Parkins brings up the rumor of Nick Saban potentially coaching in the NFL. Feldman expresses skepticism, highlighting Saban's age and current contentment with his role in college football.

  "I'd still be very surprised, being in his mid-70s, if he decided to come back to the grind that is coaching."
  — Bruce Feldman (42:31)

5. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Topics

Timestamp: 43:51 - End

As the episode wraps up, Danny Parkins teases upcoming topics, including potential moves in the NFL and further analysis on key players like Micah Parsons and LeBron James.

Key Takeaways:

• Patrick Mahomes remains the undisputed top quarterback, maintaining his trajectory alongside Tom Brady.
• Jalen Hurts is recognized for his leadership and clutch performances but is scrutinized for relying heavily on his team's strengths.
• Deion Sanders' successful surgery is a beacon of hope and resilience, positively impacting the Colorado Buffaloes' prospects.
• NFL Contract Negotiations are fraught with tensions, especially concerning guarantees and player protections.
• College Football faces a dynamic shift with new quarterbacks and strategic plays, as highlighted in the Texas vs. Ohio State matchup.

Notable Quotes:

• "Jalen Hurts playing not one, but two, not good, but great Super Bowls obviously is incredibly valuable." — Danny Parkins (05:30)
• "Mahomes is still on that Brady track... He'll just add more to his trophy case." — Danny Parkins (17:55)
• "It's pretty jolting just to hear how serious this was... he is cured from the cancer." — Bruce Feldman (34:42)
• "With such star power, I would give the edge to Ohio State at the start of the year, at least." — Bruce Feldman (38:55)
• "I'd still be very surprised, being in his mid-70s, if he decided to come back to the grind that is coaching." — Bruce Feldman (42:31)

This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the current NFL quarterback landscape, intertwined with significant college football news and insightful discussions on player-team dynamics. Danny Parkins, alongside guest Bruce Feldman, provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the sports world's latest developments.