Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Hour 3 - NFL News with Diana Rossini
Release Date: July 22, 2025

Introduction In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd engages in an in-depth discussion with Diana Rossini, a seasoned NFL insider from The Athletic. The conversation delves into the latest NFL developments, coaching movements, quarterback prospects, and touches upon notable retirements and their Hall of Fame implications. Additionally, the episode briefly branches into NBA discussions, providing a comprehensive overview of current sports narratives.

1. Nick Saban’s Potential Move to the NFL

Timestamp: [03:02] - [05:24]

Colin Cowherd opens the dialogue by addressing the swirling rumors of Alabama’s head coach, Nick Saban, potentially transitioning to the NFL. He references comments from Lane Kiffin and Greg McElroy, suggesting that Saban’s return to coaching an NFL team could be on the horizon.

Notable Quote:

"There's a bad taste left in Saban's mouth, no matter how you look at it... I could see Nick Saban having tons of success if he wanted to do it."
— Unnamed NFL Insider [04:30]

The insider elaborates that while Saban is revered in college football for his unparalleled success at Alabama, the NFL presents a vastly different landscape. The transition is deemed unlikely due to the distinct nature of the game and the intricacies involved in NFL coaching roles.

2. Chicago Bears' Offseason Overhaul

Timestamp: [05:24] - [08:58]

The conversation shifts to the Chicago Bears, highlighting the organizational changes involving the hiring of Ben Johnson as the new coordinator and the acquisition of quarterback Caleb Williams. Colin expresses optimism about the Bears taking a significant step forward, contrasting previous dysfunctions with the current structured approach.

Notable Quote:

"I tend to believe... the Chicago Bears are going to take a step forward. This isn't me having conversations with your new colleague Big Cat, telling me this. This is actual people that coach football."
— Unnamed NFL Insider [07:00]

The insider emphasizes the importance of Caleb Williams adapting to the new playbook under Johnson’s guidance, asserting that while Williams is highly talented, his development as a quarterback will determine the Bears' success in the upcoming season.

3. Shador Sanders and the Cleveland Browns’ QB Situation

Timestamp: [08:58] - [13:35]

Colin brings up Shador Sanders, Chicago's quarterback drafted in the fifth round by the Cleveland Browns, questioning whether media expectations were inflated due to his performance in talks with teams like the Chiefs and Ravens. The discussion explores the Browns' depth chart and the realistic prospects of Sanders securing a starting role.

Notable Quote:

"Most believe that the Chicago Bears are going to take a step forward... this is a team that really was built in the off season and under Ben Johnson here from the inside out."
— Unnamed NFL Insider [07:55]

The insider discusses the Browns' quarterback roster, highlighting Joe Flacco’s experience and the competitive environment that Sanders will navigate. He predicts Sanders will have opportunities to showcase his skills during the offseason but may not immediately secure a starting position.

4. Philip Rivers’ Retirement and Hall of Fame Debate

Timestamp: [22:00] - [26:24]

The episode takes a reflective turn as Colin and Jason McIntyre discuss veteran quarterback Philip Rivers' retirement announcement from the Los Angeles Chargers. They delve into Rivers’ career accomplishments, his durability, and the ongoing debate about his potential induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Notable Quote:

"It's historic stuff. Four straight division titles in the AFC West... I don't see why he wouldn't be Hall of Fame."
— Unnamed NFL Insider [24:11]

The discussion contrasts Rivers’ consistent performance and longevity with other quarterbacks like Eli Manning and Matt Ryan, weighing the criteria for Hall of Fame induction, particularly emphasizing postseason success as a significant factor.

5. NBA Segment: Bradley Beal and the Clippers vs. Lakers

Timestamp: [25:42] - [28:07]

Transitioning briefly to basketball, Colin and Jason analyze Bradley Beal’s decision to join the Los Angeles Clippers over the Lakers. They debate the implications for both teams, considering factors like team depth, coaching, and player conditioning.

Notable Quote:

"I don't think you have to punish a league because they didn't move the needle. If you have a new star that is moving the needle, then deal with the reality."
— Jason McIntyre [26:04]

The conversation highlights Beal’s stature as a scorer and questions the Clippers’ ability to effectively utilize his talents given the existing team dynamics and coaching strategies.

6. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: [29:24] - [29:52]

As the episode wraps up, Colin reflects on the diverse topics covered, emphasizing the interconnectedness of coaching strategies, player development, and organizational decisions in shaping the future of NFL teams. The brief NBA discussion serves as a complementary segment, showcasing the broad scope of sports analysis presented in the episode.

Conclusion This episode of The Herd offers listeners a thorough exploration of contemporary NFL issues, from high-profile coaching rumors to the intricacies of quarterback development and retirement legacies. Diana Rossini provides expert insights that enrich the discussion, making it a valuable resource for sports enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of current trends and future prospects in football. The addition of NBA commentary adds a dynamic layer, underscoring the multifaceted nature of sports journalism.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Unnamed NFL Insider on Nick Saban:

  "[...] There's such a bad taste left in Saban's mouth, no matter how you look at it."
  [04:30]

• Unnamed NFL Insider on Chicago Bears:

  "I tend to believe... the Chicago Bears are going to take a step forward."
  [07:00]

• Unnamed NFL Insider on Philip Rivers:

  "Four straight division titles in the AFC West... I don't see why he wouldn't be Hall of Fame."
  [24:11]

• Jason McIntyre on NBA Decisions:

  "I don't think you have to punish a league because they didn't move the needle."
  [26:04]

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, ensuring that listeners who missed the show can grasp the key discussions and insights shared by Colin Cowherd and Diana Rossini.