Podcast Summary: The Best Of Covino & Rich

Release Date: April 29, 2025
Podcast: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Hosts: Wilmer Valderrama, Freddie Rodriguez, and Freddie Prinze Jr.
Description: In this episode, Wilmer Valderrama and Freddie Rodriguez delve deep into one of the most intriguing stories of the NFL Draft—the unexpected selection of Shador Sanders. Joined by Freddie Prinze Jr., the trio navigates through the complexities surrounding Sanders' draft position, analyzing potential factors beyond surface-level assumptions.

1. Introduction

The episode kicks off with the hosts reminiscing about past experiences and setting the stage for a comprehensive discussion on the NFL Draft, with a special focus on Shador Sanders.

“We were still in that place of... what will this experience become?”
— Wilmer Valderrama [00:00]

2. NFL Draft Analysis

a. African-American Player Statistics

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the unprecedented number of African-American players selected in the draft. Out of the first 32 picks, 29 were African American, sparking conversations about the league's demographics and selection biases.

“30 were men of color, 29 were African American.”
— Freddie Rodriguez [04:01]

b. Shador Sanders' Draft Position

Shador Sanders' selection at the 144th pick (fifth round) has been a focal point. The hosts explore whether his lower-than-expected draft position was influenced by factors such as interview performance or perceived arrogance, rather than racial bias.

“It's easier to believe that it was the interview process. It's harder for me to believe racism's involved, when 29 of the 32 were black.”
— Freddie Rodriguez [04:32]

c. Speculations on Reasons for His Draft Placement

The hosts debate various reasons behind Sanders' draft position, including team needs, his confidence versus arrogance demeanor, and the impact of Deion Sanders' (his father) reputation.

“His dad worked against him, if anything.”
— Freddie Rodriguez [08:32]

3. "Peach Cobbler" Analogy

A memorable part of the discussion is the "peach cobbler" analogy used to describe Shador Sanders' draft scenario. The analogy illustrates how Sanders remains available later in the draft, much like a dessert left untouched on a table, awaiting someone brave enough to take it.

“Shador Sanders is like peach cobbler. ... you could say everyone is going after other items and leaving the peach cobbler for last.”
— Freddie Prinze Jr. [12:4]

4. Prank Phone Call Incident

The episode addresses a controversial prank phone call involving Jax Ulbricht, the son of Jeff Ulbricht, defensive coordinator of the Falcons. Ulbricht's son impersonated a Saints' GM to inform Shador Sanders of his draft status, causing unnecessary drama and stress.

“It was cruel. There's a difference between prank and just mean. Like, pranks supposed to be funny, right?”
— Freddie Rodriguez [45:23]

5. Future Prospects for Shador Sanders

Despite the setbacks, the hosts remain optimistic about Sanders' future. They discuss potential teams that could draft him and the opportunities he might have to start and prove his capabilities in the NFL.

“If he has the talent that we all believe he does, he could actually start next year and win the job.”
— Freddie Prinze Jr. [10:57]

6. Additional Sports News

a. Washington Commanders' Stadium Deal

Briefly touching on broader sports news, the hosts mention the Washington Commanders' finalized deal to build a new stadium adjacent to RFK Stadium, highlighting the financial and logistical aspects of the project.

“The Washington Commanders finalized their deal with the District of Columbia to build the new stadium...”
— Wilmer Valderrama [28:38]

b. WrestleMania 41 Recap

Towards the end, the conversation shifts to WWE's WrestleMania 41, praising the event's intensity and the performers' dedication, underscoring the future of wrestling.

“Tiffany Stratton earned her stripes at WrestleMania... bleeding for her art.”
— Wilmer Valderrama [29:52]

7. Audience Engagement: Hypothetical Scenarios and Games

Engaging the audience, the hosts introduce fun hypothetical questions and interactive games, such as battling a silverback gorilla and comparing Hall of Fames, fostering a lively and entertaining atmosphere.

“How many men would it take to beat a silverback gorilla? I think the minute I was Sam, ran up to the gorilla and it ripped his head off...”
— Freddie Prinze Jr. [39:16]

8. Conclusion

Wrapping up, the hosts reiterate their support for Shador Sanders while acknowledging the complexities of the NFL Draft process. They highlight the importance of perseverance and the potential for Sanders to excel despite the odds.

“I think next year we're all going to be sitting around here in the fall... Shador is going to have his chance.”
— Freddie Prinze Jr. [17:16]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “30 were men of color, 29 were African American.”
  — Freddie Rodriguez [04:01]

• “Shador Sanders is like peach cobbler...”
  — Freddie Prinze Jr. [12:04]

• “It's easier to believe that it was the interview process...”
  — Freddie Rodriguez [04:32]

• “It was cruel. There's a difference between prank and just mean.”
  — Freddie Rodriguez [45:23]

• “Tiffany Stratton earned her stripes at WrestleMania...”
  — Wilmer Valderrama [29:52]

• “I think next year we're all going to be sitting around here in the fall... Shador is going to have his chance.”
  — Freddie Prinze Jr. [17:16]

Key Insights and Conclusions

• Diversity in the NFL Draft: The high number of African-American players selected contradicts the notion that Shador Sanders' draft position was influenced by racism. Instead, factors like team needs and individual player qualities seem to play a more significant role.

• Impact of Personal Conduct: Shador Sanders' demeanor during interviews and perceived arrogance may have adversely affected his draft stock, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in high-stakes environments.

• Family Influence: The involvement of Shador's father, Deion Sanders, adds a layer of complexity, suggesting that personal relationships and reputations within the league can influence draft outcomes.

• Prank Phone Call Fallout: The unethical prank by Jax Ulbricht underscores the need for professionalism and respect in interactions within the sports industry, highlighting how personal actions can have broader repercussions.

• Optimism for the Future: Despite the challenges, there is optimism that Shador Sanders will find a team that values his talents and provides him with opportunities to succeed, illustrating resilience in the face of adversity.

• Rapid News Cycle: The discussion reflects on how quickly news can evolve in the sports world, with topics like team stadium deals and WrestleMania receiving attention alongside draft analyses.

This episode offers a multifaceted exploration of the NFL Draft, particularly focusing on Shador Sanders' unique situation, while intertwining broader sports discussions to provide listeners with a comprehensive and engaging narrative.