The Stephen A. Smith Show: Donovan McNabb on Hall of Fame Status and NFL Insights

Episode Title: Interview Only: QB Donovan McNabb states no Super Bowl victory blocks his Hall of Fame status
Release Date: February 9, 2025
Hosts: Stephen A. Smith, Donovan McNabb
Platform: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this exclusive interview on The Stephen A. Smith Show, sports icon Donovan McNabb joins host Stephen A. Smith to discuss his perspectives on his NFL career, Hall of Fame aspirations, and insights into the current state of the league. Skipping the usual advertisements and intros, the conversation delves deep into McNabb's thoughts on performance metrics, team dynamics, and the evolving role of quarterbacks in modern football.

Personal Reflections on Super Bowl Appearances and Hall of Fame Aspirations

Stephen A. Smith ([01:52]):
"My next guest spent 13 seasons as an NFL quarterback, 11 of those years with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he took the team to Super Bowl 39. It's always good to get his perspective, at least in the eyes of some of y'all. To me, he's a damn nightmare. Nobody clowns me more than this dude. Nobody gets on my nerves more than this guy. He's always messing with me, but I miss him. The one and only Donovan McNabb. What's up, my brother? How you doing, man?"

Donovan McNabb ([06:01]):
"Made it to at least the eighth or probably the final selection of the Hall of Fame. I might be in the Hall of Fame right now because then I would be looked upon as a true Hall of Famer, which in a lot of people's eyes, I am."
(Timestamp: 06:01)

McNabb confidently asserts that his contributions to the NFL warrant Hall of Fame recognition, stating that a Super Bowl victory is not a prerequisite for his induction. He emphasizes his consistent performance and the respect he commands within the league.

Comparisons with Current Quarterbacks

Stephen A. Smith ([06:25]):
"Let's go back to the Super Bowl right now. When we think about Patrick Mahomes, we think about Lamar Jackson, we think about Josh Allen, we think about Joe Burrow, etc. In the words of a quarterback who played at a high level in the National Football League. What does Patrick Mahomes have that none of the other quarterbacks have?"
(Timestamp: 06:25)

Donovan McNabb ([06:45]):
"Super Bowls. Super Bowls."
(Timestamp: 06:45)

McNabb highlights Patrick Mahomes' Super Bowl successes as a distinguishing factor, underscoring the importance of championship victories in evaluating a quarterback's legacy.

Team Dynamics and Coaching Influence

Stephen A. Smith ([11:42]):
"What was your relationship like with Andy Reid when you were playing?"
(Timestamp: 11:42)

Donovan McNabb ([13:01]):
"Actually talked to him today. He helped me, had eggs for breakfast."
(Timestamp: 12:07)

McNabb discusses the positive influence of coach Andy Reid, praising Reid's ability to create a no-judgment environment that fosters player autonomy and team cohesion.

Evaluating the Philadelphia Eagles' Prospects

Stephen A. Smith ([15:30]):
"Jalen Hurts. The Philadelphia Eagles, since Week 5, has run the football more than anybody in the league. They've thrown the football less than anybody in the league. So you're basically saying this, we're run first kind of team, etc. I don't know if that's going to get it done against Patrick Mahomes. What's wrong with saying that?"
(Timestamp: 15:30)

Donovan McNabb ([15:34]):
"Because you're now sliding. What?"
(Timestamp: 15:34)

Stephen A. Smith ([15:37]):
"He's. He's been doing."
(Timestamp: 15:37)

McNabb critiques the Eagles' heavy reliance on the run game, questioning its effectiveness against elite quarterbacks like Mahomes. He advocates for a balanced offensive strategy to keep defenses guessing and create more scoring opportunities.

Assessing Offensive and Defensive Strengths

Stephen A. Smith ([10:37]):
"Do you think the Philadelphia Eagles offensive line would be able to do that? They're number one according to Pro Football Focus. They average 328 pounds. You would think they should be able to maul any, any defensive line, even if it is that of the Kansas City Chiefs. What are your thoughts about that?"
(Timestamp: 10:37)

Donovan McNabb ([10:38]):
"Jones is a problem."
**(Timestamp: 10:38)

McNabb identifies key challenges within the Eagles' offensive line, specifically pointing out issues with players like Chris Jones. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining health and cohesion to leverage their offensive strengths effectively.

On defense, McNabb praises the Kansas City Chiefs' defensive strategies, noting their ability to make timely plays and the contributions of players like Reed and Spags. He acknowledges the depth and talent within their defensive lineup as critical factors in their success.

Predicting the Super Bowl Outcome

Stephen A. Smith ([18:42]):
"So who you got?"
(Timestamp: 18:42)

Donovan McNabb ([18:45]):
"Philadelphia Eagles by three."
(Timestamp: 18:45)

Stephen A. Smith ([19:00]):
"Three touchdowns from Jalen passing, one rushing. That's not an emotional call, you know, quarterback loving the quarterback. Philadelphia, you understand that's just one of the great analysts just giving you his analytics."
(Timestamp: 19:12)

Donovan McNabb ([19:17]):
"Not at all."
(Timestamp: 19:17)

McNabb predicts a narrow victory for the Philadelphia Eagles, forecasting a final score of 30-27. He attributes the Eagles' potential success to their balanced offensive strategy, efficient quarterback play by Jalen Hurts, and a strong defensive performance that can contain Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs' offense.

Discussion on Patrick Mahomes' Legacy

Stephen A. Smith ([19:46]):
"Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl against your prognostications, I might add, they will have three-peated. That would make Patrick Mahomes the Greatest."
(Timestamp: 19:46)

Donovan McNabb ([20:09]):
"Quarterback to have ever lived at the moment. You just gonna give him that title just right now? I'm asking a question. No."
(Timestamp: 20:09)

McNabb challenges the notion that Mahomes could be deemed the greatest quarterback solely based on potential future Super Bowl victories. He argues that longevity and sustained performance over a longer career are essential factors in such evaluations.

Closing Remarks and Final Predictions

Stephen A. Smith ([21:03]):
"Philadelphia Eagles 30. Kansas City Chiefs 27. I'm giving you one last chance to change your prediction."
(Timestamp: 21:03)

Donovan McNabb ([21:12]):
"I'm gonna hit him back."
(Timestamp: 21:20)

The interview wraps up with McNabb steadfast in his prediction of an Eagles victory, underscoring his belief in their strategic play and defensive prowess. The rapport between Smith and McNabb remains engaging and spirited, reflecting their mutual respect despite the competitive banter.

Key Takeaways

1. Hall of Fame Debate: Donovan McNabb firmly believes that his consistent performance and leadership merit Hall of Fame induction, independent of a Super Bowl victory.

2. Quarterback Comparisons: McNabb highlights the significance of Super Bowl appearances in evaluating the greatness of current quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and others.

3. Team Strategy: Emphasis on the importance of a balanced offensive approach for the Eagles, advocating for a robust running game to complement their passing strategy.

4. Coaching Impact: McNabb praises Andy Reid's coaching philosophy, attributing much of the Eagles' success to Reid's ability to empower players and maintain a positive team environment.

5. Super Bowl Prediction: A close game is anticipated with the Eagles edging out the Chiefs, based on offensive efficiency and defensive strengths.

6. Legacy Building: McNabb underscores the importance of sustained excellence and career longevity in cementing a quarterback's legacy as the greatest.

Notable Quotes

• Donovan McNabb ([06:01]):
  "I might be in the Hall of Fame right now because then I would be looked upon as a true hall of Famer, which in a lot of people's eyes, I am."

• Donovan McNabb ([06:45]):
  "Super Bowls. Super Bowls."

• Donovan McNabb ([10:38]):
  "Jones is a problem."

• Donovan McNabb ([12:07]):
  "Andy was a no judgment kind of coach and still is a no judgment kind of coach. And that's what makes him elite."

• Donovan McNabb ([19:17]):
  "Not at all."

• Donovan McNabb ([20:09]):
  "He's only seven years in the league. Seven, eight years in the league. Let him play about 15 years. Matter of fact, with that resume, let him play 13 to 15 more years. And if he decides to retire, yes, he will go down this."

This detailed summary captures the essence of Donovan McNabb's candid conversation with Stephen A. Smith, providing listeners with valuable insights into his views on the NFL, his career, and the future of quarterbacks in the league. Whether you're a die-hard Eagles fan or a follower of NFL legends, this episode offers a comprehensive look into the mind of one of football's notable quarterbacks.