Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: THE HERD - Hour 1 - Shedeur Sanders played well, Caleb Williams doesn't play at all, and thoughts on Jaxson Dart
Release Date: August 11, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosts Colin Cowherd and Joy Taylor delve into the latest NFL developments, focusing primarily on quarterback performances and prospects. Skipping over the introductory advertisements, the discussion kicks off around the 1:35 mark, diving straight into the analysis of recent games and quarterback evaluations.

Mike Sando’s Quarterback Tier Rankings

Timestamp: [02:32]

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Mike Sando's annual quarterback tier survey, which aggregates opinions from 50 NFL executives, including GMs, coaches, and assistants. This survey serves as a critical barometer for assessing quarterback performance and potential.

Tier 1 Highlights:

• Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Aaron Rodgers, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Matt Stafford are recognized as the elite quarterbacks, demonstrating exceptional skill and leadership.

Tier 2 Highlights:

• Drew Daniels, Justin Herbert, Garforth, CJ Stroud, Jalen Hurts, Baker Mayfield, Joe Flacco, and Brock Purdy occupy the second tier, showcasing strong performances but with areas needing improvement.

Caleb Williams' Position:

• Caleb Williams is notably placed at the bottom of Tier 3, with approximately 30% of voters attributing his struggles to the Chicago Bears' prior season performance rather than his individual capabilities.

“Caleb Williams is bottom of Tier 3, but 15 voters, about 30% of voters, already knowing what a mess the Bears were last year. That wasn't Caleb's fault.”
— Colin Cowherd [02:35]

Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears' Quarterback Situation

Timestamp: [04:30]

The conversation shifts to Caleb Williams' limited playtime during the preseason. Ben Johnson, the Bears' coach, opted to rest Williams, citing the importance of real-game experience over preseason scrimmages.

Coach's Perspective:

• A defensive coordinator criticized Williams' decision-making and quickness in releasing the ball.

  “In terms of processing ability and getting the ball out of his hands, he was the worst quarterback we played against.”
  — Defensive Coordinator [05:15]

• Another head coach in the NFL found Williams' processing speed alarming, highlighting concerns about his readiness.

Colin's Take:

• Colin contemplates whether Johnson is potentially protecting Williams from undue scrutiny, suggesting that allowing Williams to watch high-profile games might shield him from intense criticism.

  “It's kind of a standalone, big TV game. Let Miami and TUA get all the speculation and the heat. We're gonna let him, you know, just let him sit and watch this thing.”
  — Colin Cowherd [06:50]

Shedeur Sanders's Performance and Potential

Timestamp: [12:00]

Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, receives significant attention for his impressive preseason performance. Colin and Joy commend his play, noting his physical attributes and accuracy.

Key Points:

• Physical Traits: At 6'2", 218 lbs, Shedeur possesses the ideal size for an NFL quarterback, making him a viable franchise candidate.

  “His size, his arm, his mobility are all good enough to be a franchise quarterback.”
  — Joy Taylor [18:05]

• Accuracy and Movement: Colin praises Sanders' accuracy both while moving and stationary, comparing his skill set to established quarterbacks like Dak Prescott.

  “He throws a really beautiful, catchable ball. He's an easy thrower.”
  — Colin Cowherd [19:25]

Development Areas:

• While Sanders exhibits strong physical and technical traits, both hosts agree that his maturity, decision-making, and football IQ need refinement to ascend to the next level.

  “He is not Big Ben, Josh Allen, Cam, Steve Young, fart. That's not what he is and Brady knew it.”
  — Colin Cowherd [20:10]

Coach's Comments:

• Kevin Stefanski, the Browns' head coach, emphasized Sanders' developmental progress and dismissed negative criticisms.

  “There are things that Shador can clean up, he will clean up. And I don't want to hear your anti Shador.”
  — Colin Cowherd [21:00]

Jaxson Dart and the New York Giants' Quarterback Prospects

Timestamp: [23:45]

Transitioning to Jaxson Dart of the New York Giants, the hosts express optimism about his potential, citing his preseason performance and the Giants' supportive infrastructure.

Highlights:

• Performance: Dart showcased mobility and composure during preseason plays, indicating readiness for the regular season.

  “Jackson's ready to play. Jackson's ready to play.”
  — Joy Taylor [26:00]

• Team Support: With a robust offensive line, experienced offensive coach Lane Kiffin, a top-tier receiver, and a strong defensive line, Dart is positioned for success.

  “They have a number one weapon. I like their defensive line.”
  — Joy Taylor [27:30]

Comparison to Recent Quarterback Transitions:

• The discussion contrasts Dart's situation with recent quarterback changes, noting that unlike veterans like Russell Wilson, Dart remains a fresh and adaptable option for the Giants.

Preseason Quarterback Snap Counts and Strategies

Timestamp: [29:00]

The hosts analyze the varying approaches teams take with quarterback play during the preseason, particularly focusing on veteran QBs like Aaron Rodgers and Matt Stafford.

Key Points:

• Aaron Rodgers: Colin expresses concern over Rodgers' limited snap counts due to age and injury history, suggesting that extensive downtime might affect his performance.

  “He's going to suit up for week one having not touched a football in like nine months.”
  — Colin Cowherd [32:05]

• Matt Stafford: Despite back issues, Stafford showed promising signs during a throwing session, but Joy counters by emphasizing the risks of playing older quarterbacks without robust offensive line protection.

  “I don't want Matt Stafford in the preseason with backup offensive lineman.”
  — Joy Taylor [33:20]

Joint Practices and the Necessity of Preseason Games

Timestamp: [35:00]

A broader discussion ensues regarding the value of joint practices and preseason games. Colin critiques the current NFL practices, citing increased injury risks and questioning their necessity compared to college football.

Colin's Critique:

• He advocates for minimizing joint practices and preseason games, drawing parallels to college football's streamlined approach.

  “I don't like joint practices. I don't like preseason games.”
  — Colin Cowherd [36:40]

• Injury Concerns: Highlighting incidents like Rashawn Slater's injury during a practice, Colin emphasizes the dangers of extensive preseason activities.

Joy's Counterpoints:

• While not explicitly detailed in this segment, the overarching dialogue suggests a preference for focused, minimal preseason engagements to protect player health.

Future Projections and Upcoming Content

Timestamp: [40:00]

Wrapping up the first hour, Colin hints at an upcoming interview with Mike Sando, promising further insights into quarterback evaluations. The hosts reiterate their skepticism towards certain quarterback performances and strategies, setting the stage for continued discussions in future episodes.

“He'll be on tomorrow. I'm obsessed with his quarterback tiers.”
— Colin Cowherd [42:00]

Conclusion

The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a comprehensive analysis of the current quarterback landscape in the NFL, spotlighting emerging talents like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart while critiquing established players' preseason strategies. The episode underscores the importance of both physical traits and mental maturity in shaping a successful quarterback, setting the tone for ongoing debates and future discussions in the realm of professional football.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd at [02:35]: “Caleb Williams is bottom of Tier 3, but 15 voters, about 30% of voters, already knowing what a mess the Bears were last year. That wasn't Caleb's fault.”

• Joy Taylor at [18:05]: “His size, his arm, his mobility are all good enough to be a franchise quarterback.”

• Colin Cowherd at [19:25]: “He throws a really beautiful, catchable ball. He's an easy thrower.”

• Kolin Cowherd at [26:05]: “He is slow.”

This summary captures the essence of the first hour of the episode, highlighting key discussions and insights shared by Colin Cowherd and Joy Taylor. For a comprehensive understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.