Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: Hour 2 - Top Quarterback Prospects
Release Date: April 18, 2025

Introduction

In the "Hour 2 - Top Quarterback Prospects" episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosts Greg Cosell and J. Mac delve deep into the upcoming NFL Draft, focusing on the most promising quarterback talents. Through a comprehensive analysis of player performances, strengths, and potential challenges, the duo offers insightful perspectives on who might emerge as the next franchise-changing quarterbacks in the league.

1. Evaluating Top Quarterback Prospects

Timestamp: [03:22]

Greg Cosell kicks off the discussion by addressing the general sentiment surrounding the quarterback draft class. He notes, “There’s some quarterback talent. It’s not a star draft.” This sets the stage for a nuanced examination of each prospect's capabilities.

a. Shador Sanders vs. Jackson Dart

Timestamp: [04:25]

Greg presents a comparative analysis between Shador Sanders and Jackson Dart, expressing a higher level of trust in Sanders. He states, “I trust Shador Sanders to run an offense, be composed, be accurate,” contrasting it with his concerns about Jackson Dart’s decision-making and accuracy under pressure.

J. Mac concurs, emphasizing Sanders' accuracy and rhythmic play. He remarks, “He is an easy natural throw of the football. He’s pretty rhythmic.”

b. Cam Ward

Timestamp: [05:30]

Cam Ward emerges as a standout prospect according to both hosts. J. Mac praises Ward’s physicality and mental toughness, asserting, “He’s clearly the most physically gifted quarterback in this draft class.” Greg further supports this by suggesting that Ward could have been a top-three pick based on his tape study.

c. Tyler Schuck

Timestamp: [10:25]

The conversation shifts to Tyler Schuck, where Greg acknowledges his injury history and age but remains optimistic about his potential. J. Mac highlights Schuck’s impressive tape, stating, “The tape was very, very impressive.”

d. Jalen Milroe

Timestamp: [22:55]

Jalen Milroe garners attention as an exceptional talent with rare physical abilities. Greg refers to him as potentially the only quarterback faster than Lamar Jackson, noting, “He may be the only quarterback faster than Lamar Jackson.”

2. Running Back Prospects

Timestamp: [13:22]

Greg briefly touches upon running back prospects, highlighting Aston Genty's resilience and performance on the field. J. Mac underscores Genty’s contact balance and low center of gravity, essential traits for NFL success. He remarks, “He absorbs hits and continues without losing momentum or speed.”

3. Versatile Players and Dual-Position Talents

Timestamp: [14:47]

The duo discusses the rise of versatile athletes like Travis Hunter, who excel in multiple positions. Greg muses, “We’re going to see kids now athletically that can play both sides of the ball.” However, J. Mac raises concerns about the practicality of such versatility in the NFL, especially regarding preparation and specialization.

4. Offensive Tackles and Defensive Secondary Evaluations

Timestamp: [21:02]

Shifting focus, Greg brings up the challenges of evaluating offensive tackles and defensive positions like cornerbacks and safeties. J. Mac emphasizes the importance of an offensive tackle’s ability to pass protect one-on-one on third down, stating, “The litmus test for offensive tackles in the NFL is can they pass protect on third down on third and long.”

5. Final Thoughts on Quarterback Prospects

Timestamp: [22:55]

As the discussion wraps up, Greg reflects on Bruce Arians’ skepticism about certain quarterbacks’ composure in high-pressure situations. J. Mac responds by acknowledging the evolving nature of quarterback play in the NFL, where mobility and the ability to extend plays are increasingly valuable.

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Greg Cosell and J. Mac provide a thorough examination of the top quarterback prospects, weighing their collegiate performances against potential NFL transitions. Their debate highlights the complexities of projecting college quarterbacks to the professional level, considering factors like accuracy, decision-making under pressure, physical traits, and adaptability to various offensive systems. Notable insights include:

• Cam Ward stands out as a top-tier prospect with the physical tools and mental fortitude to potentially be a top pick.

  J. Mac [05:30]: "He’s clearly the most physically gifted quarterback in this draft class."

• Shador Sanders receives higher trust from Greg Cosell due to his composure and accuracy.

  Greg Cosell [06:19]: "I trust Shador Sanders to run an offense, be composed, be accurate."

• Jalen Milroe is recognized for his exceptional physical attributes, positioning him as a dynamic future NFL quarterback.

  Greg Cosell [22:55]: "He may be the only quarterback faster than Lamar Jackson."

The episode underscores that while the draft class may not be laden with clear-cut star quarterbacks, the blend of physical prowess and mental acuity among the prospects offers promising options for NFL teams looking to invest in their future leaders.

Notable Quotes

• Greg Cosell [03:22]: “There’s some quarterback talent. It’s not a star draft.”

• J. Mac [05:30]: “He’s clearly the most physically gifted quarterback in this draft class.”

• Greg Cosell [06:19]: “I trust Shador Sanders to run an offense, be composed, be accurate.”

• Greg Cosell [22:55]: “He may be the only quarterback faster than Lamar Jackson.”

Final Thoughts

For listeners keen on understanding the dynamics of the upcoming quarterback draft and the attributes that could make or break a prospect's NFL career, this episode offers valuable insights and professional evaluations. Greg Cosell and J. Mac's expert analysis serves as a crucial guide for fans and analysts alike, navigating the intricate landscape of quarterback prospect evaluations.