The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Hour 1 (February 19, 2026)

Hosted by Jason McIntyre & Rachel Nichols (in for Colin Cowherd)

Episode Overview

Main Theme:
This episode dives into seismic NBA storylines around LeBron James’ future with the Lakers, substantial Giannis Antetokounmpo exit rumors from Milwaukee, and the murky landscape of quarterbacks in the NFL. The hosts also tackle questions about the league's next superstar torchbearer post-LeBron and discuss roster drama throughout the NFL and NBA, with segments on the Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals, and Las Vegas Raiders.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The LeBron James Conundrum: Stay, Go, or Retire?

[03:12–14:10]

Three Options:
Jason McIntyre opens with the biggest NBA query: LeBron James' post-playoffs possibilities:
- Remain with the Lakers (likely at a much-reduced salary)
- Return to Cleveland on a minimum deal (“LeBron minimum deal, Cleveland, James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, maybe he talks himself into that.” [03:33])
- Retire (“Which does kind of seem random… I can't see that.” [03:44])
Importance of a Farewell Tour:
Jason stresses LeBron’s career deserves a celebratory sendoff, comparing possible endings to those of Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant.
Business Savvy & Possible Streaming Farewell:
LeBron’s precedent-shattering free agency moves (Miami, Cleveland return, Lakers) show he thinks ahead. Jason theorizes LeBron could:
- Take less NBA money
- Land a “Last Dance”-style streaming deal (“…what if I had a camera crew… and I signed a developmental deal where they pay me, I don't know, 50 million over five years to produce…” [06:46])
Ultimate Superteam Exit?
With LeBron sacrificing salary, Jason floats a dream scenario: Lakers use cap space to land Giannis Antetokounmpo and maybe Luka Doncic, forming an epic superteam as LeBron rides into retirement.
- “...you’re telling me that isn’t the ultimate farewell tour where LeBron gets a super team because of his generous sacrifice?” [08:28]

2. LeBron’s Legacy and the Next Face of the NBA

[21:54–26:56]

Post-LeBron NBA:
Rachel Nichols discusses LeBron’s agent Rich Paul’s assertion that his retirement will mirror Michael Jordan’s 1998 exit in impact, suggesting a “collective” of new faces rather than a single superstar.
- Quote, Rich Paul (clip):
  “I think it's going to be a collective of players, just like it was when Michael left in '98…” [22:10]
Debate: Who’s Next?
Rachel strongly believes Victor Wembanyama (Wemby) is “the guy” — a magnetic, competitive force (“…he is the future. And the future is already starting to be here.” [25:14]) — while Jason raises the case for Jalen Brunson if the Knicks win a title.
- Rachel: “I think Wemby is going to be the most dominant force in the NBA within just a couple years…” [23:03]
- Jason: “What if Jalen Brunson wins a title this year with the Knicks?... Do we put him in the face of the league discussion?” [25:14]
European Stars as NBA’s Face:
Both agree nationality is no barrier; it depends on the player’s charisma and dominance.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo: Hints He’s Ready to Bolt Milwaukee

[19:14–21:54]

Concerning Comments:
Giannis, speaking to Greek media, suggested his next contract is likely not with Milwaukee:
- “I don't know if I'll leave. It's not up to me, okay? If it was up to me, maybe I would have already left. In a year and a half when I become a free agent at 32, it will be up to me.” [19:53]
Bucks’ Troubles:
- Team floundering at 12th in the East, roster/salary cap woes
- Failed attempts to rebuild around Giannis (Dame Lillard, Miles Turner)
- Jason argues Milwaukee waited too long to rebuild (“The best time to rebuild is last year… You got to pull the trigger.” [20:56])
Advice to Giannis:
Jason urges Giannis to own his decision, ignore the inevitable backlash, and leave for a contender:
- “Dude, you’re just gonna have to own it…. Do what you want to do. Who cares what the unwashed masses are saying?” [21:30]

4. The State of NFL Quarterbacks: A Talent Drought

[08:45–14:10]

Quarterback Carousel:
- Jason laments a “weird place” in the NFL: up to 8 teams might not have a starting QB next year.
- Free agents like Malik Willis, Jimmy Garoppolo, Daniel Jones, and Russell Wilson evoke skepticism.
Draft Maybes, Free Agency Whiffs:
- This year’s draft class is thin (“…there’s maybe one free agent that people are interested in, Malik Willis, who I'm not going to put an asterisk by him because all the stat guys love what he did.” [09:38])
- Past attempts to patch holes with free agents or journeymen largely failed: Derek Carr, Geno Smith, Kirk Cousins discussed as cautionary tales.
Teams May Tank for 2027:
“Jets, Dolphins, some of these teams are going to be incentivized to not go out and spend a lot of money in free agency now, so they can draft high next year…” [13:25]

5. Olympic Check-in: Rachel’s Recap

[14:10–14:41]

Rachel returns from her ninth Olympics, having enjoyed it, praising US Women’s Curling and previewing key hockey showdowns.
“This was a good one. …Women’s curling team just made it into the playoffs.” [14:15]

6. Dallas Cowboys: Defensive Rebuild Under Christian Parker

[26:56–29:55]

New Approach:
- Dallas’ new DC vows to design his scheme based on existing personnel, not force-fit his preferred style.
  - Quote, Parker: “How can you put good players in highlighted positions? …If we have guys that are better with zone vision, we're going to play more zone…” [27:27]
Skepticism Remains:
Jason doesn’t think the Cowboys’ defense has enough talent as-is to make rapid improvements.
Bar for Success is Low:
Rachel: “The bar for the Dallas Cowboys to be successful is very low right now. …Make the playoffs. That will be a success…” [29:40, 29:53]

7. Arizona Cardinals & Kyler Murray’s Uncertain Future

[30:04–33:00]

Kyler on the Trade Block?
- ARI coach Mike LaFleur is “non-committal”; Rachel and Jason believe team wants to move on.
- Kyler’s cap hit and possible trade value debated (“…if you do have the cap room, then you maybe take a flyer. …If he doesn't cost you much, maybe you give it a try.” [31:21])
Is a Rebuild Coming?
- Cardinals may prioritize cap relief over a return package, “punt and start over like Denver did with Russell Wilson.” [32:21]
- If no team bites, “maybe they just say we have no takers… We'll just start him and we're going to suck anyway.” [31:19]

8. Raiders & Max Crosby: Loyalty vs. Reality

[34:53–46:46]

Should Raiders Trade Crosby?
Jason’s axiom: “Loyalty is garbage in sports… These are businesses.” [34:53]
- Cites Steelers' and Browns' pass-rusher situations.
- Max Crosby, a “Raider for life” by ink and persona, may be eying a move — he’s notably cagey about his future ("He said, none of that. He hemmed and hawed and sat on the fence. Well, you know what they say. Pooper, get off the pot." [35:53])
Crosby’s Quotes & the Bears Rumor:
- Crosby on the “Let’s Go” podcast: “I really don't care what everybody has to say. I used to a lot as a young guy. I really don't give a damn.” [38:53]
- Jason ponders a Crosby–Bears trade with DJ Moore and a #1 pick as potential return.
Locker Room Leadership Post-Crosby:
- Raiders’ rookie QB Fernando Mendoza praised for leadership qualities, but Jason questions if a young player can lead a franchise right away.
- Rachel: “It would be great for the Raiders if they could keep him and help sort of bridge the gap with Mendoza, who I…love…He is going to be very popular in that locker room right away.” [44:02]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On LeBron’s next move:
- Jason McIntyre: “So what could he have in store for us this summer?... Is there a world where LeBron says, you know what?... I signed a developmental deal where they pay me… to produce some fun stuff for a streaming service. And oh, by the way, my farewell tour.” [06:46]
On Giannis’ comments:
- Jason McIntyre (paraphrasing Giannis): “‘I don't know if I'll leave. It's not up to me, okay? If it was up to me, maybe I would have already left. In a year and a half when I become a free agent at 32, it will be up to me.’” [19:53]
On quarterbacks in the NFL:
- Jason: “There are 32 teams and we don't have enough good quarterbacks.” [10:36]
- “For every Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield who hit in Tampa… it's littered with Geno Smiths.” [12:38]
On Wemby as the NBA’s future:
- Rachel Nichols: “He is everything Americans like. His English is excellent… He is a magnetic presence. He physically looks so different from any player we've ever seen. I just think he is the future.” [24:34]
On Max Crosby:
- Crosby: “I really don't care what everybody has to say. I used to a lot as a young guy. I really don't give a damn.” [38:53]
- Jason: “You can't be… tatted up with the Raiders and then demand I want to go to Chicago or I want to go to this contender. Raiders are going to send you wherever they're going to get the best offer.” [42:52]

Timestamps for Key Segments

[03:12] LeBron’s future, Lakers superteam theory
[05:17] LeBron's business/narrative mastery
[06:46] Streaming farewell tour possibility
[08:45] NFL QB landscape/lauding scarcity
[13:25] Tanking for next year’s QB class
[14:10] Rachel’s Olympics return & curling/hockey highlights
[19:14] Giannis’ comments, Bucks’ futility
[22:15] Rich Paul on post-LeBron NBA future
[24:34] Rachel’s “Wemby is the future” argument
[26:56] Cowboys DC Christian Parker’s new philosophy
[30:04] Cardinals & Kyler Murray trade talk
[34:53] Raiders' Max Crosby conundrum & loyalty in sports
[38:53] Max Crosby’s direct quote on his future
[42:52] Jason on realities of NFL trades and team-building

Conclusion

A lively, opinionated take on the biggest NFL and NBA topics — the Lakers’ potential post-LeBron era, LeBron’s legacy, Giannis possibly bolting Milwaukee, an NFL with a quarterback gap, Dallas and Arizona’s rebuilds, and the nature of player loyalty in pro sports. Both Jason and Rachel blend sharp analysis with humor and debate, setting up a dynamic episode full of insight into the future of both leagues.

Useful for listeners who missed the episode: this summary captures both the arguments and the flavor of discussion, providing a roadmap of sports’ present and future drama.

The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Hour 1 (February 19, 2026)

Hosted by Jason McIntyre & Rachel Nichols (in for Colin Cowherd)

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The LeBron James Conundrum: Stay, Go, or Retire?

[03:12–14:10]

Three Options:
Jason McIntyre opens with the biggest NBA query: LeBron James' post-playoffs possibilities:
- Remain with the Lakers (likely at a much-reduced salary)
- Return to Cleveland on a minimum deal (“LeBron minimum deal, Cleveland, James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, maybe he talks himself into that.” [03:33])
- Retire (“Which does kind of seem random… I can't see that.” [03:44])
Importance of a Farewell Tour:
Jason stresses LeBron’s career deserves a celebratory sendoff, comparing possible endings to those of Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant.
Business Savvy & Possible Streaming Farewell:
LeBron’s precedent-shattering free agency moves (Miami, Cleveland return, Lakers) show he thinks ahead. Jason theorizes LeBron could:
- Take less NBA money
- Land a “Last Dance”-style streaming deal (“…what if I had a camera crew… and I signed a developmental deal where they pay me, I don't know, 50 million over five years to produce…” [06:46])
Ultimate Superteam Exit?
With LeBron sacrificing salary, Jason floats a dream scenario: Lakers use cap space to land Giannis Antetokounmpo and maybe Luka Doncic, forming an epic superteam as LeBron rides into retirement.
- “...you’re telling me that isn’t the ultimate farewell tour where LeBron gets a super team because of his generous sacrifice?” [08:28]

2. LeBron’s Legacy and the Next Face of the NBA

[21:54–26:56]

Post-LeBron NBA:
Rachel Nichols discusses LeBron’s agent Rich Paul’s assertion that his retirement will mirror Michael Jordan’s 1998 exit in impact, suggesting a “collective” of new faces rather than a single superstar.
- Quote, Rich Paul (clip):
  “I think it's going to be a collective of players, just like it was when Michael left in '98…” [22:10]
Debate: Who’s Next?
Rachel strongly believes Victor Wembanyama (Wemby) is “the guy” — a magnetic, competitive force (“…he is the future. And the future is already starting to be here.” [25:14]) — while Jason raises the case for Jalen Brunson if the Knicks win a title.
- Rachel: “I think Wemby is going to be the most dominant force in the NBA within just a couple years…” [23:03]
- Jason: “What if Jalen Brunson wins a title this year with the Knicks?... Do we put him in the face of the league discussion?” [25:14]
European Stars as NBA’s Face:
Both agree nationality is no barrier; it depends on the player’s charisma and dominance.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo: Hints He’s Ready to Bolt Milwaukee

[19:14–21:54]

Concerning Comments:
Giannis, speaking to Greek media, suggested his next contract is likely not with Milwaukee:
- “I don't know if I'll leave. It's not up to me, okay? If it was up to me, maybe I would have already left. In a year and a half when I become a free agent at 32, it will be up to me.” [19:53]
Bucks’ Troubles:
- Team floundering at 12th in the East, roster/salary cap woes
- Failed attempts to rebuild around Giannis (Dame Lillard, Miles Turner)
- Jason argues Milwaukee waited too long to rebuild (“The best time to rebuild is last year… You got to pull the trigger.” [20:56])
Advice to Giannis:
Jason urges Giannis to own his decision, ignore the inevitable backlash, and leave for a contender:
- “Dude, you’re just gonna have to own it…. Do what you want to do. Who cares what the unwashed masses are saying?” [21:30]

4. The State of NFL Quarterbacks: A Talent Drought

[08:45–14:10]

Quarterback Carousel:
- Jason laments a “weird place” in the NFL: up to 8 teams might not have a starting QB next year.
- Free agents like Malik Willis, Jimmy Garoppolo, Daniel Jones, and Russell Wilson evoke skepticism.
Draft Maybes, Free Agency Whiffs:
- This year’s draft class is thin (“…there’s maybe one free agent that people are interested in, Malik Willis, who I'm not going to put an asterisk by him because all the stat guys love what he did.” [09:38])
- Past attempts to patch holes with free agents or journeymen largely failed: Derek Carr, Geno Smith, Kirk Cousins discussed as cautionary tales.
Teams May Tank for 2027:
“Jets, Dolphins, some of these teams are going to be incentivized to not go out and spend a lot of money in free agency now, so they can draft high next year…” [13:25]

5. Olympic Check-in: Rachel’s Recap

[14:10–14:41]

Rachel returns from her ninth Olympics, having enjoyed it, praising US Women’s Curling and previewing key hockey showdowns.
“This was a good one. …Women’s curling team just made it into the playoffs.” [14:15]

6. Dallas Cowboys: Defensive Rebuild Under Christian Parker

[26:56–29:55]

New Approach:
- Dallas’ new DC vows to design his scheme based on existing personnel, not force-fit his preferred style.
  - Quote, Parker: “How can you put good players in highlighted positions? …If we have guys that are better with zone vision, we're going to play more zone…” [27:27]
Skepticism Remains:
Jason doesn’t think the Cowboys’ defense has enough talent as-is to make rapid improvements.
Bar for Success is Low:
Rachel: “The bar for the Dallas Cowboys to be successful is very low right now. …Make the playoffs. That will be a success…” [29:40, 29:53]

7. Arizona Cardinals & Kyler Murray’s Uncertain Future

[30:04–33:00]

Kyler on the Trade Block?
- ARI coach Mike LaFleur is “non-committal”; Rachel and Jason believe team wants to move on.
- Kyler’s cap hit and possible trade value debated (“…if you do have the cap room, then you maybe take a flyer. …If he doesn't cost you much, maybe you give it a try.” [31:21])
Is a Rebuild Coming?
- Cardinals may prioritize cap relief over a return package, “punt and start over like Denver did with Russell Wilson.” [32:21]
- If no team bites, “maybe they just say we have no takers… We'll just start him and we're going to suck anyway.” [31:19]

8. Raiders & Max Crosby: Loyalty vs. Reality

[34:53–46:46]

Should Raiders Trade Crosby?
Jason’s axiom: “Loyalty is garbage in sports… These are businesses.” [34:53]
- Cites Steelers' and Browns' pass-rusher situations.
- Max Crosby, a “Raider for life” by ink and persona, may be eying a move — he’s notably cagey about his future ("He said, none of that. He hemmed and hawed and sat on the fence. Well, you know what they say. Pooper, get off the pot." [35:53])
Crosby’s Quotes & the Bears Rumor:
- Crosby on the “Let’s Go” podcast: “I really don't care what everybody has to say. I used to a lot as a young guy. I really don't give a damn.” [38:53]
- Jason ponders a Crosby–Bears trade with DJ Moore and a #1 pick as potential return.
Locker Room Leadership Post-Crosby:
- Raiders’ rookie QB Fernando Mendoza praised for leadership qualities, but Jason questions if a young player can lead a franchise right away.
- Rachel: “It would be great for the Raiders if they could keep him and help sort of bridge the gap with Mendoza, who I…love…He is going to be very popular in that locker room right away.” [44:02]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On LeBron’s next move:
- Jason McIntyre: “So what could he have in store for us this summer?... Is there a world where LeBron says, you know what?... I signed a developmental deal where they pay me… to produce some fun stuff for a streaming service. And oh, by the way, my farewell tour.” [06:46]
On Giannis’ comments:
- Jason McIntyre (paraphrasing Giannis): “‘I don't know if I'll leave. It's not up to me, okay? If it was up to me, maybe I would have already left. In a year and a half when I become a free agent at 32, it will be up to me.’” [19:53]
On quarterbacks in the NFL:
- Jason: “There are 32 teams and we don't have enough good quarterbacks.” [10:36]
- “For every Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield who hit in Tampa… it's littered with Geno Smiths.” [12:38]
On Wemby as the NBA’s future:
- Rachel Nichols: “He is everything Americans like. His English is excellent… He is a magnetic presence. He physically looks so different from any player we've ever seen. I just think he is the future.” [24:34]
On Max Crosby:
- Crosby: “I really don't care what everybody has to say. I used to a lot as a young guy. I really don't give a damn.” [38:53]
- Jason: “You can't be… tatted up with the Raiders and then demand I want to go to Chicago or I want to go to this contender. Raiders are going to send you wherever they're going to get the best offer.” [42:52]

Timestamps for Key Segments

[03:12] LeBron’s future, Lakers superteam theory
[05:17] LeBron's business/narrative mastery
[06:46] Streaming farewell tour possibility
[08:45] NFL QB landscape/lauding scarcity
[13:25] Tanking for next year’s QB class
[14:10] Rachel’s Olympics return & curling/hockey highlights
[19:14] Giannis’ comments, Bucks’ futility
[22:15] Rich Paul on post-LeBron NBA future
[24:34] Rachel’s “Wemby is the future” argument
[26:56] Cowboys DC Christian Parker’s new philosophy
[30:04] Cardinals & Kyler Murray trade talk
[34:53] Raiders' Max Crosby conundrum & loyalty in sports
[38:53] Max Crosby’s direct quote on his future
[42:52] Jason on realities of NFL trades and team-building

Conclusion

Useful for listeners who missed the episode: this summary captures both the arguments and the flavor of discussion, providing a roadmap of sports’ present and future drama.

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THE HERD - Hour 1 - The future of LeBron James and why he might move on from the Lakers before his career is over, Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors

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Summary

The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Hour 1 (February 19, 2026)

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The LeBron James Conundrum: Stay, Go, or Retire?

2. LeBron’s Legacy and the Next Face of the NBA

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo: Hints He’s Ready to Bolt Milwaukee

4. The State of NFL Quarterbacks: A Talent Drought

5. Olympic Check-in: Rachel’s Recap

6. Dallas Cowboys: Defensive Rebuild Under Christian Parker

7. Arizona Cardinals & Kyler Murray’s Uncertain Future

8. Raiders & Max Crosby: Loyalty vs. Reality

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Key Segments

Conclusion

Summary

The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Hour 1 (February 19, 2026)

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The LeBron James Conundrum: Stay, Go, or Retire?

2. LeBron’s Legacy and the Next Face of the NBA

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo: Hints He’s Ready to Bolt Milwaukee

4. The State of NFL Quarterbacks: A Talent Drought

5. Olympic Check-in: Rachel’s Recap

6. Dallas Cowboys: Defensive Rebuild Under Christian Parker

7. Arizona Cardinals & Kyler Murray’s Uncertain Future

8. Raiders & Max Crosby: Loyalty vs. Reality

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Key Segments

Conclusion