Episode Summary: What's Wright - NFL Reaction: Micah Parsons WANTS OUT, Caleb STRUGGLES + Luka & Lakers EXTENSION

Release Date: August 6, 2025
Podcast: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Host: Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the discussion centers around significant NFL developments, including Micah Parsons' trade request, Caleb Williams' ongoing struggles, and the recent extension of Luka Dončić with the Lakers. The hosts delve deep into these topics, providing insights, analysis, and notable commentary from various guests and co-hosts.

Micah Parsons Wants Out

Trade Request and Negotiations

The episode kicks off with a heated discussion about Micah Parsons, the standout linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, who has officially requested a trade. Devin outlines the situation:

Devin (around 29:31): "Micah Parsons officially requested a trade. It was on Friday, Saturday. And he... unfortunately, I no longer want to be here."

Noah adds to the conversation, criticizing the Cowboys' management approach:

Noah (around 29:50): "I think that is totally fine for a manager and employee to be having a conversation... But it is outrageous for the management side to think whatever is said in that setting is binding in any way, shape or form."

Contract Comparison and Historical Context

Noah compares Micah's situation to other top NFL players, highlighting inconsistencies in contract negotiations:

Noah (around 37:05): "He is the first player in NFL history to be top three defensive player of the year voting in each of his first three seasons. And for them to be holding him hostage based on we had an agreement in March is insane."

Potential Trade Scenarios

The hosts speculate on possible trade outcomes, discussing teams that might be interested and the implications for the Cowboys:

Noah (around 44:25): "I do not think the Chiefs would trade for Micah Parsons... So would it scare me? It would certainly bum me out for this season."

Caleb Williams Struggles

On-Field Performance and Criticism

Caleb Williams, the promising quarterback, has been underperforming, prompting discussions about his leadership and emotional stability:

Noah (around 66:20): "The problem is the getting in his own head, and the problem is the body language and the emotional stability of him as a player."

Coaching Strategies and Development

Noah discusses the coaching methods aimed at improving Caleb's performance:

Noah (around 70:05): "Ben Johnson... is intentionally trying to break him down a bit to then build him back up... as long as Caleb can handle it well."

Leadership and Team Dynamics

The importance of Caleb's demeanor as a team leader is emphasized:

Noah (around 71:23): "When you are a team's best player... you're the de facto leader. People take their cues from you."

Luka Dončić & Lakers Extension

Luka's New Contract

The hosts celebrate Luka Dončić's recent contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers:

Noah (around 73:43): "Lucas signing the extension... the next deal he'll sign with Monze will be the league's first million-dollar-a-game deal."

Team Strategy and Future Prospects

Noah analyzes the Lakers' strategy moving forward, considering Luka's commitment:

Noah (around 73:43): "I think this is good, important real news. I also think that because he signed the extension, they are able to slow walk this a bit if they want to."

Relationship Between Luka and LeBron

Addressing concerns about potential tension between Luka Dončić and LeBron James, Noah provides reassurance:

Noah (around 76:43): "I don't think there's anything between them at all. I think there's some frustration for LeBron... that the Lakers are not pressing the gas even more on this season."

Additional Highlights

Baker Mayfield's Performance

The episode also touches upon Baker Mayfield's ranking and performance:

Noah (around 85:43): "Expectations are he has another really good season... he's a frontline MVP candidate."

James Cook's Contract Situation

Discussion about James Cook's contract extension prospects with the Buffalo Bills:

Noah (around 87:10): "I think they think he's going to blink, bro. I don't think it's that they... it's just such a tough business for running backs."

Listener Questions

The hosts engage with listener questions, comparing playoff performances of renowned quarterbacks and ranking mission impossible movies.

Notable Quotes

• Noah (29:50): "I think that is totally fine for a manager and employee to be having a conversation... But it is outrageous for the management side to think whatever is said in that setting is binding in any way, shape or form."

• Noah (37:05): "He is the first player in NFL history to be top three defensive player of the year voting in each of his first three seasons. And for them to be holding him hostage based on we had an agreement in March is insane."

• Noah (73:43): "I think this is good, important real news. I also think that because he signed the extension, they are able to slow walk this a bit if they want to."

• Noah (76:43): "I don't think there's anything between them at all. I think there's some frustration for LeBron... that the Lakers are not pressing the gas even more on this season."

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a comprehensive analysis of critical sports developments, focusing on Micah Parsons' trade request, Caleb Williams' challenges, and Luka Dončić's lucrative extension with the Lakers. The hosts provide in-depth insights, backed by statistics and personal opinions, making it a valuable listen for sports enthusiasts seeking to understand the underlying dynamics of these high-profile stories.