Hour 3 - Julian Edelman

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd - Hour 3: Julian Edelman

Release Date: May 7, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Guest: Julian Edelman

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1. Introduction

Timestamp: [02:11] - [02:13]
Colin Cowherd welcomes listeners to the episode, introducing Julian Edelman as the guest for the discussion.

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2. Team Distractions and Off-Field Issues

Timestamp: [02:13] - [04:42]
Julian Edelman opens the conversation by addressing recent distractions surrounding the New England Patriots. He emphasizes the challenges these distractions pose to team focus and performance.

• Julian Edelman: "I defend Jordan. I even defend her real estate empire, which she's building. She's a go-getter... I defend her. She's a tough PR. She's telling people, don't ask that question. That doesn't bother me at all." ([02:23])

Colin and Julian discuss how ongoing off-field issues, particularly involving team representatives, have become persistent distractions that could potentially impact the Patriots' performance on the field.

• Colin Cowherd: "The game's already, as hard as it is to prepare for, to play, to coach. And, you know, regardless of what her role is, Jordan... Anytime we're doing behind the scenes this, that you got someone who represents you, they're going to jump in. But now that it's gained and it's snowballed... it's becoming a distraction." ([03:03])

They agree that maintaining focus on the game is paramount and that the increasing media attention on off-field matters is detrimental to the team's success.

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3. Handling High-Profile Players and Team Dynamics

Timestamp: [04:42] - [07:57]
The conversation shifts to the Patriots' management of high-profile and potentially disruptive players, referencing past instances such as the departure of Randy Moss.

• Colin Cowherd: "Randy Moss just got cut... we were in the gap of the dynasty, the old dynasty and trying to develop the new team." ([05:49])

Julian reflects on the implications of trading Randy Moss and how it signaled the team's strategy to prioritize long-term development over short-term gains. They also discuss the importance of maintaining team chemistry and avoiding distractions that could derail the Patriots' progress.

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4. Offensive Line and Draft Strategy

Timestamp: [10:23] - [12:17]
Julian praises the Patriots' recent draft choices, highlighting the selection of Will Campbell with the fourth overall pick as a strategic move to strengthen the offensive line.

• Colin Cowherd: "They needed offensive line. They went out and drafted a guy with the fourth pick that they liked... they didn't wait and try to do something cute." ([10:45])

Discussion includes the impact of these draft picks on the development of key offensive players like Drake May and the overall offensive strategy under coach Josh McDaniels.

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5. Travis Hunter’s Dual Role and Team Strategy

Timestamp: [07:57] - [10:23]
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Travis Hunter, a highly talented player drafted to play both offense and defense. Colin shares his personal experience as a former player who managed dual roles.

• Colin Cowherd: "I started playing two-way. I was the nickel. I would hop into the offensive group and go over my packages..." ([08:08])

Julian and Colin debate the feasibility and potential effectiveness of Hunter's dual role, considering the demanding nature of modern NFL strategies and the Patriots' need for flexibility.

• Julian Edelman: "He still has to develop into great on one of these sides... It's going to be very tough." ([09:02])

They conclude that while Hunter's athleticism is undeniable, the Patriots may eventually need to specialize his role to maximize his impact without overextending him.

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6. Future Prospects and Team Improvements

Timestamp: [10:23] - [20:31]
Julian Edelman shares his predictions for the Patriots, naming them as the most improved team this year due to strategic acquisitions and draft picks.

• Julian Edelman: "I think it's New England. They bought about five starters and they drafted about three." ([10:23])

Colin elaborates on specific draft selections and offseason moves, emphasizing the importance of building a strong foundation through the offensive line and versatile players.

• Colin Cowherd: "The third-round receiver, the Williams kid... They got a center in the fourth, you know, with Williams on the defensive side." ([11:40])

The duo highlights the Patriots' balanced approach between drafting young talent and adding veteran presence, ensuring both immediate and long-term improvements.

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7. Julian Edelman’s Induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame

Timestamp: [21:35] - [27:39]
A heartfelt segment where Julian Edelman shares his personal journey with the Patriots, culminating in his induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame.

• Julian Edelman: "Take me back to the first game... It was a weird situation because my first preseason game West didn't play. It was Tom's first game back from the ACL..." ([23:27])

Julian recounts significant moments that solidified the trust between him and quarterback Tom Brady, particularly during critical games where his performance was pivotal.

• Colin Cowherd: "The trust didn't come until he saw it in a real game... through your preparation, adjust, adapt." ([23:32])

He expresses immense gratitude and pride in being part of an organization renowned for its success and cultural excellence.

---

8. Personal Reflections and Legacy

Timestamp: [26:34] - [27:35]
Julian reflects on the values instilled in him by his father, emphasizing resilience and hard work as core principles.

• Colin Cowherd: "He always says... even if you come up short on something, if something goes wrong, there's no sniveling... get to work, work your way out of stuff." ([26:34])

Julian echoes these sentiments, highlighting how these lessons have shaped his professional and personal life, contributing to his sustained success and positive influence within the team.

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9. Conclusion and Final Remarks

Timestamp: [27:35] - [29:04]
The episode wraps up with final thoughts on team dynamics, future expectations, and a brief nod to upcoming segments and promotions.

Julian and Colin reaffirm their optimism about the Patriots' trajectory, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and maintaining focus amidst external pressures.

• Julian Edelman: "Congrats, buddy." ([27:39])
• Colin Cowherd: "Thank you. Thank you. It's awesome." ([27:39])

They encourage listeners to stay tuned for future discussions and engagement opportunities, promising more in-depth analysis and insider perspectives on the Patriots and the broader NFL landscape.

---

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Julian Edelman:
   "I defend Jordan... She’s a tough PR. She’s telling people, don’t ask that question. That doesn’t bother me at all." ([02:23])

2. Colin Cowherd:
   "The game's already, as hard as it is to prepare for, to play, to coach... Anytime we're doing behind the scenes this, that you got someone who represents you, they're going to jump in." ([03:03])

3. Colin Cowherd:
   "Randy Moss just got cut... We were in the gap of the dynasty, the old dynasty and trying to develop the new team." ([05:49])

4. Julian Edelman:
   "He still has to develop into great on one of these sides... It’s going to be very tough." ([09:02])

5. Colin Cowherd:
   "They needed offensive line. They went out and drafted a guy with the fourth pick that they liked... they didn't wait and try to do something cute." ([10:45])

6. Julian Edelman:
   "I think it's New England. They bought about five starters and they drafted about three." ([10:23])

7. Julian Edelman:
   "Take me back to the first game... It was Tom's first game back from the ACL..." ([23:27])

8. Colin Cowherd:
   "The trust didn't come until he saw it in a real game... through your preparation, adjust, adapt." ([23:32])

9. Julian Edelman:
   "Congrats, buddy." ([27:39])

---

Key Takeaways

• Focus Amidst Distractions: The Patriots must prioritize on-field performance by minimizing off-field distractions and maintaining team cohesion.

• Strategic Drafting: Effective selection of offensive line and versatile players like Travis Hunter is crucial for building a robust team foundation.

• Player Development: Emphasizing the growth and specialization of players to maximize their strengths without overextending their roles.

• Legacy and Trust: Strong relationships, exemplified by Julian Edelman's trust with Tom Brady, are integral to team success and individual accolades.

• Continuous Improvement: The Patriots' balanced approach between drafting young talent and adding veterans positions them for sustained success in the NFL.

---

This episode offers an insightful look into the intricate balance of managing a high-profile NFL team, the importance of strategic player acquisitions, and the personal journey of a celebrated player within the Patriots' legacy. Julian Edelman's reflections provide a unique perspective on team dynamics, trust, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the Patriots' organizational culture.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Julian Edelman]

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[Julian Edelman]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Colin Cowherd]

Now let's get this party started.

[Julian Edelman]

You're listening to Fox Sports Radio. Now, J Mac over here is like, I, you know, it's a little dicey. I'm like, hey, we're journalists. You got to get on this stuff. Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Julian Edelman]

All right, so listen, I defended Jordan. I even defend her real estate empire, which she's building. She's a go getter. She's, you know, her mom and dad had a business that Went bankrupt. That I pay. You know, the fear. She's like, hey, I'm going to go get her. I get it. Like, I'm going to defend her. I, I defend. She's a tough pr. She's telling people, don't ask that question. That doesn't bother me at all. There are people around Bill that are a little concerned in Patriot Nation. If you were on a text chain is just say you don't have to give me names, would it be concerned? Would it be he's okay, Cuz it's like a thing now.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, it is a thing. And the number one thing we used to talk about all the time in New England was distractions. Let's not make distractions. The game's already, as hard as it is to prepare for, to play, to coach. And, you know, regardless of what her role is, Jordan, yeah, I thought he got an unfair, an unfair public opinion on the whole thing because that happens all the time. Anytime we're doing behind the scenes this, that you got someone who represents you, they're going to jump in. But now that it's gained and it's snowballed to what it's become right now, where we're talking about it three weeks later, it's becoming a distraction. So that's what, I'm sure that's what we all think right now. This is becoming a distraction. We gotta, we gotta, gotta, gotta practice what we preach here.

[Julian Edelman]

Yeah, I mean, Barry White said they're both benefiting from this. Her professionally, him somewhat professionally. So I don't like to be too judgy on this stuff.

[Colin Cowherd]

I don't either. But, you know, once again, I mean, we're talking about this three weeks later, it's on abc, it's on this, it's on that. I mean, it's getting to a point where we gotta, we gotta start worrying about, you know, the acc. We gotta start worrying about Dabo Sweeney. We shouldn't be talking about our girlfriend. And that's what that's how coach would say to us. So, you know, that's, that's the truth. You know, when it comes down to running a football organization and playing football, let's make the main thing the main thing.

[Julian Edelman]

So you were with New England at a very interesting time when they acquired Randy Moss. You were there for the last year and a few games. Yeah, so. And I think Randy's better than George Pickens, but I think both are spectacular talents that can be at times a bit moody and can be, by the way, confrontational. That's not terrible, but receivers tend to be outspoken. They're the NBA dudes of football. They break the huddle first. They're out on an island. They're often the best athlete. So when a player like Randy there was that sideline blow up against like Miami. What does it do to what. Because Mike Tomlin just said, yeah, I'm done. Yeah, he, he, he kept ab for several years. When there is a combative player and you got little bit of Randy, Bill moved off it fast. Right? Like, did that happen overnight?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I mean, you know, there was, that, there was confrontation with, you know, on the sideline in Miami. He was traded next week. And that was my first moment in the NFL where you're like, damn, everyone's expendable.

[Julian Edelman]

Right.

[Colin Cowherd]

Randy Moss just got cut, you know, and Randy wasn't a problem like that. But what it was is we were in the gap of the dynasty, the old dynasty and trying to develop the new team. And so there was a lot of young foundational players there that Bill probably didn't want that to be a seen thing that, hey, this is all right. So, you know, he traded Randy Moss and everyone in the locker room, you know, straightened up right away.

[Julian Edelman]

Okay. I was going to say. So when Randy left, you lose the talent. But you did feel immediately a sort of the temperature came down.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, but you know, that's, this is also apples and oranges. You know, we had Tom Brady who had three Super Bowls. We got Bill.

[Julian Edelman]

They don't know who their quarterback is.

[Colin Cowherd]

We don't know who the quarterback is. You know, you had other, you had a young Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez who were there at that point like the team was changing already. So it wouldn't, it wasn't like we just got jumped ship because he popped off. They, they clearly had a plan to go to that 12 personnel group and that's what we ended up doing for the next few years. So I, I, I, I don't know how this Pickens is going to deal is going to, is going to turn out because ultimately, I mean, Dax had weapons. What makes Dak good is when he has a run game. That's the truth. And they didn't get a, they didn't get a big time running back. I know they got a running back in the fifth and they got a, they got the Williams kid out of Denver from last year, but that's a quarterback's best friend is a run game. They have Ferguson, who's a hell of a tight end. They got CD who's going to benefit hugely from Pickens if Pickens is down.

[Julian Edelman]

To play ball coverage on him now.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, and I, and I think Dak's going to be able to handle all that. But you know, I think they need to address the running back room some one of those guys got to come out of nowhere and play well. I'll never, I'll never judge a draft pick lineman from the Cowboys. They know how to do that. So I'm sure that pick will be all right. But the running back thing is what ultimately concerns me the most about them.

[Julian Edelman]

So you, when Travis Hunter gets picked, we talk about how's he going to be in an offensive and a defensive meeting. Actually, when you came out, did you do that at New England?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I did that my third year. We were down at Star, so I started playing to Star. And we got to put this in context though. Star is the nickel, I was the nickel. Let's put this in context. I wasn't the best receiver on my team at that point in my career. I wasn't even sniffing the best corner on that team. So when I was going in, I was guarding the fifth to sixth best player and I was getting guarded by the fourth, the fifth best guy on defense. This is completely different. So. And I had two years of offense already in my system. I knew the offense all right. So on Thursdays I would leave all the defensive meetings. I would have a defense. I would be in defense Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. And then on certain third down periods or third down days, which is usually Thursday, I'd hop into the offensive group and, and go over my installation for my 4 wide group, my package for that third down package. But everything else I had to get accustomed to corner because I never played it before. Now Travis is going to do this. He still has to develop into great one of these sides, you know, and that takes time, that takes film, that takes reps at both and that takes coaching at both. So it's going to be very tough. But I do think he could have packages, you know, so he goes and plays corner the whole time. Maybe you have him on a red zone package. You have six to eight plays. They, you know, he's comfortable with, you know, the quarterback's comfortable with throwing it to him. And that's another thing, you know, is the quarterback going to be comfortable throwing to a guy if he's in the defensive meetings all day, he's not asking questions when you're installing the plays, how are they going to do that? They're going to put in more Time, there's collecting a bargaining agreement. You can't do that anymore. So, like, what are we going to do here? The time is the hardest part about this and it's the preparation for playing both sides. And then, you know, you're not playing Colorado State defensive guys. You're playing the best guy in his conference in the NCAA when he played every single play. So you know it's going to beat you up a little. So it's going to be a tough situation to go through. If there's a guy that can do it, it's Travis Hunter. But I think that they're going to have to pick one side, I don't know what side that is, and then give him packages on the other.

[Julian Edelman]

So I think the most improved team I predicted last year it would be Washington. I got lucky on that. This year I think it's New England. I think, you know, I think they bought about five starters and they drafted about three. What did you see? I mean, usually there's a plan, you know, Vrabel, when you watch the draft, free agency, what was the plan you saw?

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, clearly offense, first three picks, you know, you go Will Campbell with the fourth overall pick. That's, that's, that's a huge, huge piece for them. They needed offensive line. They showed that they needed offensive line. They went out and drafted a guy with the fourth pick that they liked. They didn't wait and try to do something cute, trade back, do this, do that. They got the guy they wanted and then they get Hendrickson in the second round. Ohio State, I think him paired up with Josh McDaniels is going to be so big for the development of Drake May, what all our super bowl teams. We had Shane Vereen, who had 13 catches out of the backfield, who was great with protections. We had Jim James White, who had 15 catches in the super bowl, was great with protections. All I keep on hearing about this Hendrickson kid, kids great with protections, great with the ball in his hands. Him, Josh McDaniels. That's going to be great for Drake. May and then the third round receiver, the Williams kid.

[Julian Edelman]

Have you seen him play?

[Colin Cowherd]

Dude, I haven't, but I've asked all my guys.

[Julian Edelman]

He's great.

[Colin Cowherd]

I keep on asking all my GM guys, I'm like, yo, what's this kid about? And they're like, dude, he's, he's good.

[Julian Edelman]

He will start.

[Colin Cowherd]

So, you know, I, I was very excited with what they did in the draft and in the off season adding, you know, tackle with Moses on the, you know, veteran tackle to kind of help. They got a center in the fourth, you know, with Williams on the defensive side. They handled a bunch of that on in free agency. It seems like they're spending their money. They're, they're adding the right positions. Now they got to go out and prepare and execute it and do it.

[Julian Edelman]

Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1, and the iHeartRadio app.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Julian Edelman]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Julian Edelman]

Okay, kid, give it a try. Nice.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Julian Edelman]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Julian Edelman]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Julian Edelman]

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[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Julian Edelman]

For the TV schedule to come out. Aaron did not want to do another Sunday night. Monday night. Thursday night, just like the NFL last year had Mahomes playing like everything.

[Colin Cowherd]

But Tuesday, I can assure him the Pittsburgh Steelers will not be playing every.

[Julian Edelman]

It's funny because Kirk Cousins, legendary, didn't like it. Manning Peyton didn't like it. How was Brady knowing? Creature of habit. That his schedule. Now it's Sunday night again. How did you guys handle? You didn't play in the 1:00 window much. No.

[Colin Cowherd]

And, and you loved playing in those 1:00 windows.

[Julian Edelman]

Everybody does.

[Colin Cowherd]

Everyone does. Because you get up, go game, you get to watch the four o'clocks on the way home. It's just an easier schedule. But you know, that was one thing, you know, no one batted an eye with in New England. You know what time we played, when we played.

[Julian Edelman]

I like the one o'clocks.

[Colin Cowherd]

Everyone likes the one o'clocks. But I also like the, the night games. That's when everyone was watching you. That's when the show was all about you. That's when you could go and show the world what you were about. So, you know, it's a double edged sword. But you know, this whole Aaron Rodgers thing, the more I think about it, man, maybe he is really just that much smarter where he's probably going to land into like some team that gets a hurt quarterback that he really likes. You know what I mean? At first I was so on the fence, like why wouldn't he sign somewhere? You know, we saw his time in the jets that he struggled with being on the same chemistry page with his receivers, which is developed through organized team activities, minicamps, offseason and you need those practices. So why is he doing it again? And then you know, hey, the draft, they didn't draft a quarterback. They should get rid of the other guy. Maybe he Falls into something else he wants. I don't know. He's. He's very unpredictable. I know. You think he's predictable, though, right?

[Julian Edelman]

No, I think Aaron thinks he's unpredictable. But Aaron wants to control things. He likes control. And he wants you to think that you don't know anything. He likes goes out of his way to say, Schefter doesn't know what he's doing. And Diana Rossini, he goes. He tries too hard. It's like when people say, I don't care if people like me. If you're trying too hard to say that you really care that people like me when you're trying too hard to say, I nobody know. I think he's fairly predictable that he wants to. He's going to want two or three things. He. He didn't want Pickens around. He probably wants Alan Lazard and, you know, he probably wants to make sure he's not on seven, you know, games at Sunday night and Thursday night.

[Colin Cowherd]

For me, it's just, you know, if you're a quarterback, I would want as much time.

[Julian Edelman]

So do I.

[Colin Cowherd]

On on task with the players as you could have, you know, just because it's going to be. I know he's probably. Arthur Smith's their O.C. yeah, he's a West coast guy. He's going to know the terminology and stuff, but it's more of like learning the body mechanics of your guys, having them learn his cadence, which is an ultimate tool, but very hard to learn. Cadence is not easy like that takes this time to get used to. So regardless of where he goes, I hope he goes quick because it's fun to talk about him.

[Julian Edelman]

I was thinking about this. Matt Stafford took $20 million less to stay with a Rams smart. Obviously, in New England, when you guys took less than your market value, did the team, you know, did they say, you know, Julia, we'll give you a better parking spot? Did it. Was there ever any team guilt that, you know, Mr. Kraft knew that you could have gone elsewhere, you had a market, you played for a little, sometimes a lot less. Did you ever get a little. Did ever give you a pizza on Friday night for the fam or. It's just like, hey, bro, you're part of the culture. Take cuts.

[Colin Cowherd]

I think we're just part of the culture, really. It's just part of the culture. And you couldn't say anything because, you.

[Julian Edelman]

Know, Tom was taking.

[Colin Cowherd]

Tom was taking a cut. So no one could say, hey, anything. But, you know, with. With the Stafford situation, I completely understand taking less Money in this part of his career, it's a whole process, especially when you, you're comfortable somewhere. He's at this age. He's 37, 38, whatever he is, you know, does he want to uproot his family that probably loves it here? Does he want to go and learn a completely new offense? Does he want to learn a completely new roster of names? I mean, there's something comfortable about going to the janitor that, you know, for the last eight years and having a conversation with George. That's comfort, you know, and some. That's what I loved about New England. When I drove in, I had the same lady waved at me for 12 years, and that made me feel at home, you know, so at this point in his career, I can completely understand. He loves his. You know, he knows the coach that he's with is, is a viable coach that can get. Knows how to dial up plays. Sneed's going to get him players. They've shown that they can draft players. They're bringing in tools for them. I mean, this is a, a good spot. I mean, he's made a lot of money. How much do you need?

[Julian Edelman]

That's right.

[Colin Cowherd]

How much do you need?

[Julian Edelman]

I mean, how much do Sour Patch Kids cost? I mean, it's your, you know, who cares?

[Colin Cowherd]

I mean, he's, he's, he's made a lot of money.

[Julian Edelman]

Oh, he's made like 400 large or something. Hey, what? Shadour Sanders, little cocky, falls in the draft, gets humbled. When you're a veteran and you walk into a locker room and there's a kid, he's a draft pick. Oh, yeah, he's got a little, little tude. Did guys like to humble him? I mean, was that something that was discussed among veterans?

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, a lot of. We had Tim Tebow come into our camp, and I remember to play backup quarterback, and I remember the first day he came in, the media was just like through the roof. You know, this is like OTAs. It's like a Super bowl media.

[Julian Edelman]

It didn't last very long.

[Colin Cowherd]

Didn't last very long. And it was a lot. But he, he was humble about it. He was a humble kid about it, and he was in the locker room cool about it. And I'm sure Chador is going to be a different guy. When there's a guy who's been playing on that team for 10 years making $30 million and say, hey, rookie. You know, hey, let's be, let's be seen, not heard. Like, that's the kind of stuff yeah.

[Julian Edelman]

Miles Garrett has a way of influence.

[Colin Cowherd]

Hey, let's be seen. Let's not be heard, buddy. Let's. That's the kind of thing that the older guys used to say to us.

[Julian Edelman]

Okay. It was announced this week, finally, Julian, you were voted into the Patriots hall of Fame, which is incredible. And I saw the video with your father. Take me back to the first game you were. It was a four year journey to really become. Take me back first to the minute you made the team and the call with your dad.

[Colin Cowherd]

It was a weird situation because my first preseason game west didn't play. It was Tom's first game back from the acl, so they wanted to get him some game reps. He wanted to get game reps. And so Wes didn't play. I caught a few balls from him and that was a big thing. And I housed a punt and I had a kickoff tackle to open the game. So I was making plays. But then the next game I sprained my foot and I was out for the next three weeks. So I was up in the air. I didn't know if I was making the team. And Billy O'Brien's over here playing with me, like, you know, Buffalo, week one. Hopefully you're there for the inst. Like, you know, messing with me, but knew I was going to make the team, so I didn't really have that moment where like, hey, you made the team. We went into week one and in New England, there's still parts moving throughout the year. So I never really called my dad and told them, hey, Dad, I made the team. I said, dad, I'm still. I'm still around right now. Okay, so I'll let you know if I call you the next time. It's probably because I'm coming home.

[Julian Edelman]

But there was a moment at some point in your and Tom's relationship where you could sense he trusted you. That's big for Tom.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Julian Edelman]

When was that?

[Colin Cowherd]

I would say probably that Buffalo. The week one Buffalo game in 2013 where, you know, Gronk blew out his back. We signed Amendola, he ripped out his adductor, and Hernandez was gone by then, so there was no one else to really throw to. And so he kind of had to. And then we balled out. We won that game. And that's when I felt like the trust was really coming. Now I put in a whole lot of sweat equity with them years before that in the off season, and there was a trust, but the trust didn't come until he saw it in, like a real game, you know, and it had to be seen in practice for you even to get an opportunity in the game. So you. And it wasn't like you just got it, you had to continually earn it. And that's something he always said. He never said, hey, you don't just trust someone. You got to continue to earn the trust. And that's through the preparation, that's through the practice, that's through the reps. And, you know, it was very, very cool for me. And it's a blessed experience to get to go into a environment like that.

[Julian Edelman]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because you become a product of your people.

[Julian Edelman]

You had a market, you could have played again. Do you remember where you were when you just decided, I'm going to shoot that video at the 50 yard line? I'm retiring a patriot.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I was in Austin, Texas. I was in Austin, Texas, and I, I remember calling my dad and I was like nervous to tell him, like my knee wasn't really responding. And I just got an opinion that they wanted to potentially do like a micro fracture surgery. I'm 34 years old, three Super Bowls, I'm like, we're good. Micro fractures, 12 month recovery. And that's just to potentially get the cartilage to calm down or something like that. And so I called my dad and it was, you know, it was. I needed to have his validation that it was okay. And, you know, that was it.

[Julian Edelman]

What's that mean to be a Hall.

[Colin Cowherd]

Of Famer, you know, for this organization, which could be argued the best organization over the last 20 years. No one will have that kind of success. Being a kid that grew up around an organization like that in the San Francisco 49ers, to be associated with some of the greats that are in the hall of Fame, the Tom Brady's, the Ben Coates, Kevin Faulks, the Vrabels. I mean, it's an absolute honor, you know, and it's pretty cool because I can remember the first day, you know, getting there, just looking at my helmet in my blue locker. Because you had to earn your real locker. You didn't get real lockers. You had blue lockers in the middle for the rookies. And I just, I would stay there all night. I never had free Gatorade shakes. I was at Kent State, so I would stay there, use all the facilities, and I would just look at my helmet like, man, I'm on this team. That's crazy.

[Julian Edelman]

What's the singular thing, the singular gift your dad gave you? The message that you would take forever, no sniveling.

[Colin Cowherd]

That's what he always says, you know, even if you come up short on something, if something goes wrong, there's no sniveling. Okay. Get to work, work your way out of stuff that's, you know, through your preparation, adjust, adapt. He's, he's now, he used to say or die. Now he's or and overcome. He's, he's grown up a little but just a, a hard working guy that, a self made man that, you know, the real respect is for people that wake up at like 5am and work till 5am doing something they don't love.

[Julian Edelman]

Right.

[Colin Cowherd]

But that they have to do for their loved ones. That's like, that's what I've taken from him.

[Julian Edelman]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

For 45 years from what I can remember. You know what I mean?

[Julian Edelman]

Congrats, buddy.

[Colin Cowherd]

Thank you. Thank you. It's awesome.

[Julian Edelman]

Julian Edelman. We'll take a break. Hers line next. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app. Hey, Steve Covino. And I'm Rich Davis and together we're Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio. You can catch us weekdays from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific on Fox Sports Radio and of course the iHeartRadio app. Why should you listen to Covino and Rich? We talk about everything, life, sports, religion, relationships, what's going on in the world. We have a lot of fun talking about the stories behind the stories in the world of sports and pop culture. Stories that, well, other shows don't seem to have the time to discuss. And the fact that we've been friends for the last 20 years and still.

[Colin Cowherd]

Work together, I mean, that says something, right?

[Julian Edelman]

So check us out. We like to get you involved too. Take your phone calls, chop it up, as they say. I'd say the most interactive show on Fox Sports Radio, maybe the most interactive show on planet Earth. Be sure to check out Cavalier Live on Fox Sports radio and the iHeartradio app from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific. And if you miss any of the live show, just search Covino and Rich wherever you get your podcast. And of course, on social media, that's Covino and Rich introducing Instagram teen accounts. A new way to keep your teen safer as they grow. Like making sure they've got the right gear for writing. Knee pads, shack and helmet.

[Colin Cowherd]

Done. See you, dad.

[Julian Edelman]

New Instagram teen accounts. Automatic protections for who can contact your.

[C]

Teenager and the content they can see.

[Julian Edelman]

Banking with Capital One helps you Keep more money in your wallet with no fees or minimums on checking accounts and no overdraft fees. Just ask the Capital One bank guy. It's pretty much all he talks about. In a good way. He'd also tell you that this podcast is his favorite podcast too. Oh, really? Thanks. Capital One Bank Guy. What's in your wallet? Terms apply. See CapitalOne.com Bank Capital One NA Member FDIC at the end of the season, there's only one team that can call themselves NBA Champs. Only one player that can call themselves the number one pick in the NFL Draft. Well, there's only one electric SUV worthy of the title. The ultimate. The all electric BMW ix. What I love about the IX is that it delivers legendary BMW performance. While its sleek design exudes innovative style from the inside out. Not to mention how much space and utility it provides. Over 75 cubic feet of cargo space. The IX is completely changing the game with an all electric suv. The greatest legends of sports never compromise any part of the game. So why would you settle for anything less from your suv? After all, there's only one ultimate the BMW ix. Everything you love about the ultimate driving machine Electrified summer is almost here, and you can now get almost anything you need for your sunny days delivered with Uber Eats. Now, what do we mean by almost? Well, you can't get a well groomed lawn delivered, but you can get chicken parm delivered. A day at the lake? That's a no. A Philly cheesesteak? That's a yes. A nice tan. Sorry. A box fan? Happily, yes. What about a day of sunshine? Not happening. How about a box of fine wines? Yeah, that's happening. Delivery's on its way. Okay, how about some clear skies? Nope. Well, how about some French fries? Yeah. So how about a freshly cut lawn? Can't help you there. But a barbecued prawn? Order it and it's on its way. Even throw in some paper towels. Clean up after the feast. So while you can't get fun in the sun delivered, don't worry, because you can get pork buns delivered. Uber Eats can definitely get you that. Get almost, almost anything delivered with Uber Eats. Order now. Alcohol in select markets. Product availability may vary by region. See app for details. No, no, no, no.

[Colin Cowherd]

Turn on the news. This is the herd line news.

[C]

All right, Colin, let's start with the Houston Rockets. They were the two seed got extinguished in game seven by Steph Curry. But they are the most interesting team this offseason because they can afford Giannis. They've got the ammo and they could afford Kevin Durant. If they don't want to go the Giannis route. Here's GM Raphael Stone talking about it.

[Colin Cowherd]

Ultimately is to build a championship team. And if we think that there. There's a move or a series of moves that make it more likely we will be that then.

[Julian Edelman]

Then we would ignore continuity.

[Colin Cowherd]

And we do those moves.

[Julian Edelman]

They'Re going to upgrade. Have to. You can't lose that early in the playoffs against an old team. Don't make them.

[C]

I was going to keep this in the holster until OKC loses again, but I think Kevin Durant actually makes more sense in Oklahoma City than he does in Houston. OKC is very close, but they don't have a two. I don't think you trust Chet or J Dub, but you go to Houston, they don't even have a one. I think they need Giannis.

[Julian Edelman]

Yeah.

[C]

More than they need KD.

[Julian Edelman]

I agree.

[C]

KD's established he's not a leader. He does not want to be the locker room rah rah guy. Giannis will be that guy. You see Jokic doing it for Denver. I don't know. KD would fit perfectly in okc. I think Houston goes all in for Giannis. Do you remember what happened to Memphis a couple years ago? They got the 2 seed. Lakers beat him in the playoffs. Remember Lakers beat that, won the play in and then smashed Memphis. Memphis has never gotten back to that level because they never leveled up. They're like, oh, we'll just try it again with Bane and Jackson and John.

[Julian Edelman]

All of a sudden, if you don't win again, there's tons of pressure on your young guys and they're still not.

[C]

Really so Houston, listen, they didn't get it done. But I don't think you run it back. I think you just go all in for.

[Julian Edelman]

Totally agree. I don't. I think you move off Jalen Green and some picks.

[C]

Yeah, even shit goon if you must. Next up is Seattle. Colin, they got my guy, Jalen Milro with a third round pick in the draft. I like Noro a lot. Obviously he's a work in progress. He knows what he has to do. Just like Lamar had to do some stuff to become a efficient passer.

[Colin Cowherd]

The biggest thing is everything works from the ground up at a quarterback position. Understanding the lower half mechanics and how I operate. Every quarterback is different. And so doing a really a deep understanding of how my body functions at the core position. With throwing the ball, it's all about being efficient passer. And so the more you work, the more you understand Your body, you're going to be more of efficient passes. So, you know, that's something that we work on and continue to work on. So I can be the best quarterback I can be.

[Julian Edelman]

Let me tell you something. He's going to play. He. He's. He is literally too gifted an athlete not to get on the field. He will be right there.

[C]

He's super smart. I like everything I.

[Julian Edelman]

So Steve Kaim, my buddy, represents him at Clutch Sports. Oh, he was like, told me like two months ago. He's like, this kid is just money. Great kid. He. He is way too good of an athlete. You have got to get him on the field and keep your eye on him in red zone stuff. You know, the red zone's a place where a Mike Evans has a physical advantage or Lamar Jackson has a physical advantage because it's all cluttered. This kid in the red zone. Sometimes you just need a guy that can beat a corner to the corner in the flag. He's going to play in red zone.

[C]

Safe to say Darnold is kind of a. I don't want to say holder. He's the guy for this year.

[Julian Edelman]

I'm not sure Milro is the future. What I'm telling you is they just said he may be the best pure athlete in the draft and they're like, we're going to get him on the field. You can't have a guy like that sitting and watching. Why couldn't you use him in different.

[C]

Roles for first half of the season?

[Julian Edelman]

Right.

[C]

And then came in and shocked everybody.

[Julian Edelman]

Remember, he made that run.

[C]

They got to the playoffs and lost. But again, Jalen Melro, like you look at his completion percentage for college quarterbacks. We got to stand here. Josh Allen was at 56 at Wyoming. They fixed that. Look at Dak Prescott. He was only 62. These guys have become great throwers of the football. Jayla Milro is coming in ahead of them. I don't think it's that big of an uphill climb for Milroe, man. I'm. I'm bullish on it.

[Julian Edelman]

But then again, I, I just think he's so great athletically. They didn't. They're not paying Sam 35 large to not be the future for two years.

[C]

He's got a year for sure.

[Julian Edelman]

Yeah. And I think what you do with Melroe is you just find. You just find plays for him. And by the way, if you have to say, hey, Sam, come out for free play package, but Milro is just too gifted to sit on the sidelines. You Just figure out ways to use him.

[C]

All right, so final story is, remember I had my mock draft for 2026 last, last week, and I had Arch Manning number one. And a lot of people are pushing back Colin saying there's no chance he's coming out this season. He's got to start multiple years. His family will not want him going to the Browns. Colin, some NFL scouts are saying Arch Manning could save two more years. I find that. No, there's just no way.

[Julian Edelman]

Remember, the biggest Tennessee volunteer booster where our, where, Where Peyton Manning went to school, owns the Browns. He'd go to Cleveland.

[C]

I, I totally disagree with all these people who are like, no shot. He's going.

[Julian Edelman]

I don't know how good he is.

[C]

Nobody does.

[Julian Edelman]

He couldn't beat out Quinn. Yours.

[C]

Quinn, yours went in the seventh round.

[Julian Edelman]

I don't know. I. I think when I watched him play, I thought he was athletic with a good army. But I. Anointing him number one. I, I don't know. Like Drew Aller last year got much more accurate and efficient than the first year I watched him. He just wasn't good enough.

[C]

Don't watch the Notre Dame tape from the bull. I mean, he was.

[Julian Edelman]

Come on. Notre Dame's defense was great. Come on.

[C]

Listen, we don't know about, we don't know about any of these guys.

[Julian Edelman]

This. I mean, some of these guys.

[C]

Let's hear it. Come on.

[Julian Edelman]

Let's hear it.

[C]

I hate Nico going fifth over all.

[Julian Edelman]

I mean, none of the, none of these guys. Caleb Downs will absolutely be a top 10 pick.

[C]

He's a stud.

[Julian Edelman]

Yeah, and I've seen Carnell Tate. Okay, but a lot of this Nussmeier.

[C]

Of LSU I saw.

[Julian Edelman]

Your boy is nuts. Meyer a top 10.

[C]

I don't see.

[Julian Edelman]

I don't see it either, but again.

[C]

Hey, guys, make leaps. Remember Joe Burrow's first year at LSU? He was like 15 touchdowns, 10 picks. Next year, he was like the greatest college quarterback ever. So things happen. These guys don't all, you know, get better at the same rate.

[Julian Edelman]

Yeah, I've seen Denzel Boston play. He's good. Is he that good?

[C]

Jordan Tyson, asu.

[Colin Cowherd]

Love that guy.

[Julian Edelman]

J. Mac with the news. Well, that's the news. And thanks for stopping by the Herd line. I think it's a little early for a mock draft, but that's, you know, that's the, you know, that's the fun of the whole thing.

[C]

You know, we could, we could make a friendly wager if it's the most clicked on article on foxsports.com this month. People love an NFL draft. You know it. You could do a mock draft in June and people would eat it up.

[Julian Edelman]

Colin I would. Yeah, I admit. I admit it's too early. And I admit I'm fascinated.

[C]

Exactly.

[Julian Edelman]

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[Colin Cowherd]

The App Store today, you're listening to an iHeart podcast.