Podcast Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: Hour 3 - The NFL Preseason
Release Date: July 29, 2025
Host: Danny Parkins (Filling in for Colin Cowherd)
Guests: Jeff Schwartz, Chris Felica, Ben Volen

1. Introduction and Guest Introduction [03:10 - 04:13]

Danny Parkins kicks off the episode by introducing himself as the interim host for Colin Cowherd. He welcomes Jeff Schwartz, a Fox Sports analyst and former lineman, and Chris Felica, host of "Bare Bets with Chris Felica." The camaraderie between Danny and Jeff is evident as they reminisce about their past collaborations and set the stage for an engaging discussion on the NFL preseason.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers’ Offseason Moves and Expectations [04:13 - 06:03]

Danny Parkins shares his long-standing prediction of the Pittsburgh Steelers having their first losing season under coach Mike Tomlin, a trend he has followed for four consecutive years. However, he notes the recent offseason moves by the Steelers, particularly the acquisition of Aaron Rodgers, and expresses cautious optimism.

Chris Felica responds by acknowledging that while short-term moves make sense, the long-term outlook remains uncertain without Rodgers and with an aging defense. He states, “In the short term, yes. But the long term is this team will look vastly different next season without Rodgers...”

Key Points:

• Offseason Strategy: Acquisition of Aaron Rodgers and defensive upgrades.
• Short-Term Outlook: Potential for improved performance this season.
• Long-Term Concerns: Sustainability post-Rodgers and aging defense.

3. Kansas City Chiefs’ Offensive Outlook [06:03 - 08:52]

The conversation shifts to the Kansas City Chiefs, focusing on the challenges facing their offense. Danny Parkins highlights concerns about offensive explosiveness and player health, particularly mentioning Josh Simmons' role as left tackle.

Chris Felica elaborates on last season's issues, including injuries to key wide receivers like Rashid Rice and Hollywood Brown. He praises Travis Kelsey’s improved physical condition, noting, “Travis Kelsey looks like he lost 20 pounds. He looks great right now.” Felica also discusses the potential impact of Josh Simmons, questioning the team's decision-making regarding his availability: “The question I have is why did no one else know he was going to be able to play so soon?”

Key Points:

• Injuries Impacting Offense: Loss of key receivers affecting passing game.
• Player Health: Travis Kelsey’s improved condition bodes well for the offense.
• Offensive Line Concerns: Josh Simmons’ readiness and potential as a left tackle.

4. Preseason Strategies: Playing Starters vs. Resting Them [14:44 - 16:39]

The discussion transitions to preseason strategies, particularly the balance between giving starters playing time and minimizing injury risks. Danny Parkins expresses his cautious approach to playing key players in preseason games, emphasizing the inevitability of injuries in practice.

Chris Felica advocates for allowing starters to play during preseason, drawing parallels to other sports where live practice is essential. He cites Andy Reid of the Chiefs as an example of a coach who successfully plays starters to prepare the team: “There's a value in that. The Chiefs start hot every year.”

Key Points:

• Injury Risks: Acknowledgment of inevitable injuries but balancing them with preparation needs.
• Coaching Strategies: Benefits of playing starters in preseason for game readiness.
• Mental Preparation: Treating preseason games with the same seriousness as regular-season games to maintain routines.

5. Betting Segment with Chris Felica [16:58 - 18:00]

Danny Parkins lightens the discussion by inviting Chris Felica to share a betting tip. Chris Felica recommends betting on the New York Giants to win fewer than five and a half games, despite the team's improvements. He cites the Giants' challenging schedule as a primary reason: “Their schedule is very difficult.”

Key Points:

• Betting Pick: Giants under five and a half wins.
• Rationale: Tough schedule with matchups against strong teams like the Cowboys, Eagles, and Chargers.

6. Interview with Ben Volen: Patriots’ Transformation and Mike Vrabel’s Impact [19:25 - 30:59]

Danny Parkins welcomes Ben Volen, a senior NFL writer for the Boston Globe, to discuss the New England Patriots' significant changes. The Patriots have undergone a major overhaul, including the hiring of head coach Mike Vrabel and the acquisition of star receiver Stefon Diggs.

Stefon Diggs' Return:

• Ben Volen praises Diggs' recovery from ACL surgery, stating, “Stefon Diggs showed up to the offseason program... and he looks good.”

Will Campbell’s Adjustment:

• Concerns are raised about the Patriots’ offensive line, particularly the transition of top pick Will Campbell: “The real question is going to be the arm length thing and I think it's a real concern.”

Mike Vrabel’s Coaching Style:

• Ben Volen compares Vrabel to Bill Belichick, highlighting similarities in coaching intelligence and player accountability: “He's a very smart coach. This is the guy that he stole a win over Miami a couple years ago...”
• Differences Highlighted: Vrabel’s active participation in practices and his former player credibility contrast with Belichick’s more reserved approach.

Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick Relationship:

• Ben Volen discusses the deteriorating relationship between Patriots' owner Robert Kraft and former coach Bill Belichick, noting ongoing public disputes and tensions that detract from their legacy.

Success Metrics for Belichick at North Carolina:

• Ben Volen sets realistic expectations for Belichick’s tenure at UNC, emphasizing incremental improvements and maintaining high program visibility: “If you can win a few more games than just what the schedule lays out for them...”

Key Points:

• Patriots’ Rebuilding: Significant roster changes and strategic acquisitions.
• Coaching Dynamics: Mike Vrabel’s leadership style and its impact on team discipline and performance.
• Star Player Recovery: Stefon Diggs’ successful return from injury is pivotal for the Patriots’ offense.
• Ownership Conflicts: Strained relationship between Kraft and Belichick affecting team morale and public perception.
• Coaching Success: Expectations for Mike Vrabel to translate past Patriots’ success into the civilian college football environment.

7. NFL Quarterback Class Discussion [31:07 - 33:34]

Danny Parkins reflects on the current NFL quarterback landscape, comparing emerging talents like Drake May, Justin Herbert, Jaden Daniels, Bo Nix, and JJ McCarthy. He suggests that this class might be one of the best ever, poised for significant impact in the coming years.

Key Points:

• Emerging Talent: Highlighting the potential of young quarterbacks and their respective teams.
• Comparative Analysis: Comparing performances and potential between quarterbacks to forecast future NFL dynamics.
• Future Prospects: Speculating on how this quarterback class could shape the league's competitive landscape.

8. Conclusion and Final Thoughts [33:34 - End]

The episode wraps up with promotional segments and a reminder of future episodes. Danny Parkins underscores the significance of the ongoing NFL season and the anticipated developments in college football and other sports.

Notable Quotes:

• Chris Felica [04:15]: “In the short term, yes. But the long term is this team will look vastly different next season without Rodgers...”
• Chris Felica [06:43]: “Add in Royals, you had the offensive line. Yeah. They lose Joe Tunney, that's going to be a loss for them.”
• Chris Felica [16:39]: “There's a value in that. The Chiefs start hot every year.”
• Ben Volen [21:20]: “Stefon Diggs showed up to the offseason program towards the end and then... he looks really good.”
• Ben Volen [24:17]: “Vrabel spent 12 years playing for Belichick. So he's going to take a lot of Belichick's tactics.”
• Ben Volen [28:09]: “The more these guys fight, it doesn't look good for anyone.”

Key Insights and Conclusions:

• Offseason Moves Matter: Teams like the Steelers and Chiefs have made strategic acquisitions and roster changes that could significantly impact their performance this season.

• Coaching Impact: The hiring of experienced coaches like Mike Vrabel can bring stability and new dynamics to teams such as the Patriots, potentially mirroring the success of past coaching legends.

• Player Health and Performance: The return of key players from injury, like Stefon Diggs, and the physical condition of players like Travis Kelsey and Josh Simmons are critical factors for team success.

• Quarterback Development: The current class of quarterbacks is shaping up to be one of the most promising in recent years, with several young talents poised to make significant impacts.

• Team Dynamics and Ownership Relations: Internal team dynamics, especially the relationship between owners and coaches, play a vital role in the overall health and success of NFL franchises.

• Preseason Strategies: Balancing the need for game practice with the risk of player injuries remains a contentious but essential part of team preparations for the regular season.

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides an in-depth analysis of the NFL preseason, highlighting key team strategies, player developments, and the overarching impact of coaching decisions on the upcoming season. Whether you're a casual fan or a dedicated follower of the NFL, the discussions offer valuable insights into the dynamics that will shape the 2025 season.