Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Episode: "THE HERD - Hour 2 - Jerry Jones still can't get a deal done with Micah Parsons, Joe Thomas"

Release Date: August 6, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Duration of Content: Approximately 2:42 to 18:17 minutes

1. Introduction

The episode kicks off with Colin Cowherd welcoming listeners to the live broadcast of The Herd on Fox Sports Radio. He introduces the main topic of discussion: the ongoing negotiations between Dallas Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones and star linebacker Micah Parsons. Additionally, the conversation delves into the Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation, featuring insights from Hall of Fame left tackle Joe Thomas.

2. Negotiations Between Jerry Jones and Micah Parsons

Colin Cowherd opens the discussion by addressing the buzz surrounding Jerry Jones's negotiations with Micah Parsons. He states:

"We don't even start the conversation. Mike Brown hides from you."
[03:49]

Colin elaborates on the dynamics of the negotiation process, emphasizing that Jerry Jones is proactively engaging in discussions about Micah Parsons's contract a year before its expiration. He underscores the importance of Micah Parsons's performance relative to his contract, questioning whether Parsons has truly outperformed his current deal.

"Micah has been an excellent player, but the ID is wildly outperforming his contract. No, he's not."
[05:30]

Colin compares player contracts to business deals, highlighting the necessity of written agreements in player negotiations, unlike the informal handshake deals in business acquisitions.

3. Insights from Joe Thomas

Joe Thomas, a Hall of Fame inductee and one of the greatest left tackles of all time, joins the conversation to provide his perspective on the negotiations and the broader implications for the Dallas Cowboys.

• On the Nature of Player Contracts:

  "In the case of a player contract, you have to have it in writing. All parties. Do we have a contract in writing yet? We're still talking about renegotiating it."
  [06:38]

• Comparison to Business Deals:

  Joe reflects on how player contracts differ significantly from other business transactions, emphasizing the structured nature of the NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

  "Player contracts were a little different with that. You end up signing it early, earlier than you normally would. That's a good sign. They like you."
  [06:55]

Joe provides valuable context on how open negotiations and early discussions often indicate a mutual desire for the continuation of the partnership between a player and the organization.

4. Cleveland Browns’ Quarterback Situation

The conversation shifts focus to the Cleveland Browns' quarterback dilemma, particularly spotlighting Shador Sanders and Dylan Gabriel.

Colin Cowherd presents his initial skepticism about Dylan Gabriel's performance and physical attributes, expressing a preference for Shador Sanders based on size and perceived leadership qualities.

"I want my ideal quarterback size. Josh Allen's an outlier. Most guys aren't that big."
[11:14]

Shador Sanders, a key figure in the discussion, offers his perspective on the rumors surrounding the Browns allegedly sabotaging his opportunities.

• Addressing Sabotage Claims:

  "It's bigger than it should be because Shador Sanders is a huge star... He's competing with two other young guys to see who's going to be the one."
  [08:07]

Shador clarifies that the Browns are fostering a competitive environment by giving equal playing time to multiple quarterbacks, aiming to identify the best fit for the starting role.

• Performance Evaluation:

  "Chadour has, I think, in my opinion, outplayed Dillon at this point in training camp because Dylan's had some struggles with accuracy."
  [10:22]

Shador asserts his own capabilities and readiness to take on the starting quarterback position, highlighting his diligence and leadership within the team.

"Shador Sanders, the player, the leader inside that locker room has been awesome."
[12:44]

5. Predictions and Team Dynamics

Colin Cowherd and Shador Sanders engage in a forward-looking discussion about the potential outcomes for the Browns' quarterback lineup.

• Starting Quarterback Forecast:

  Colin predicts that Joe Flacco will either continue as the starter or be replaced by Shador Sanders, with Dylan Gabriel possibly moving into a backup role.

  "Flacco should do or Dylan. That's my order. Kenny Pickett will be moved."
  [16:59]

• Trade Speculations:

  Shador entertains the possibility of Kenny Pickett being traded, emphasizing the Browns' need to streamline their quarterback options to focus on their top performers.

  "I'm thinking that Chador, when the season comes, is going to be that number two guy... that they want reps with Shador."
  [17:15]

The duo explores the strategic decisions the Browns must make to optimize their quarterback roster, considering both current performances and future potential.

6. Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with Colin Cowherd expressing gratitude towards Joe Thomas for his invaluable insights and reinforcing the predictions made regarding the Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation.

"Great stuff from Joe Thomas, the hall of famer, 10 time Pro Bowler... I appreciate your insight, your feet on the ground there."
[18:02]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd:

  "Micah has been an excellent player, but the ID is wildly outperforming his contract. No, he's not."
  [05:30]

• Joe Thomas:

  "In the case of a player contract, you have to have it in writing. All parties. Do we have a contract in writing yet? We're still talking about renegotiating it."
  [06:38]

• Shador Sanders:

  "Chador has, I think, in my opinion, outplayed Dillon at this point in training camp because Dylan's had some struggles with accuracy."
  [10:22]

• Colin Cowherd:

  "Flacco should do or Dylan. That's my order. Kenny Pickett will be moved."
  [16:59]

• Joe Thomas:

  "Shador Sanders, the player, the leader inside that locker room has been awesome."
  [12:44]

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides an in-depth analysis of the Dallas Cowboys' negotiation dynamics with Micah Parsons, enriched by expert insights from Hall of Fame left tackle Joe Thomas. Additionally, the Browns' quarterback conundrum is dissected, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the team's strategic decisions and future prospects. The blend of on-the-ground perspectives and predictive analysis makes this episode a valuable listen for NFL enthusiasts seeking a deeper dive into team dynamics and player negotiations.