The Stephen A. Smith Show – Episode Summary Episode Title: Stephen A's Take: NFL Money Can Buy You Happiness, Ask a Once Angry Myles Garrett
Release Date: March 11, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Platform: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction to the NFL Free Agent Signing Period

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith dives deep into the latest developments of the NFL free agent signing period that commenced on March 11, 2025. With a keen eye on high-profile moves, Smith dissects each transaction's implications for the teams involved and the broader NFL landscape.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Acquiring DK Metcalf and the Quarterback Conundrum

Timestamp: [01:04]

Stephen A. Smith begins by spotlighting the Pittsburgh Steelers' strategic move to secure wide receiver DK Metcalf. The Steelers not only traded for Metcalf but also committed to a substantial five-year, $150.5 million extension, signaling their intent to bolster their offensive lineup.

"Metcalf will presumably be paired with fellow wideout George Pickens... the question is, who will be throwing them the football? Russell Wilson or Aaron Rodgers?"
— Stephen A. Smith [02:15]

Smith evaluates the potential quarterback options for Pittsburgh, weighing Russell Wilson against Aaron Rodgers. While acknowledging Rodgers' impressive statistics with the New York Jets—28 touchdowns, 11 interceptions, and nearly 4,000 yards last season—Smith points out the Steelers' penchant for close games, having lost six fourth-quarter leads and seven one-score games.

"If you got to choose between the two, ladies and gentlemen, you choose Russell Wilson."
— Stephen A. Smith [03:20]

He argues that Wilson's familiarity with Metcalf from their Seattle days could foster better on-field chemistry, despite the hefty salary Wilson commands—estimated between $37 to $40 million annually. Smith questions whether the Steelers can afford such a contract but ultimately leans towards keeping Wilson for the synergy they share.

Buffalo Bills: Josh Allen's Historic Contract Extension

Timestamp: [03:45]

Shifting focus to the Buffalo Bills, Smith discusses their landmark six-year, $330 million extension with quarterback Josh Allen. This deal includes a record $250 million guaranteed, surpassing previous benchmarks and positioning Allen among the highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL.

"The extension takes Allen from the 14 highest average quarterback salary to tied for second at $55 million a year."
— Stephen A. Smith [05:30]

Smith contrasts Allen's new contract with that of Dallas Cowboys' Dak Prescott, who remains the highest-paid quarterback at $60 million per year despite Prescott's comparatively modest achievements—two playoff victories in ten years.

"How the hell is Dak Prescott getting paid more than him? How the hell is Dak Prescott still the highest paid quarterback in football in terms of league average per year?"
— Stephen A. Smith [06:10]

He praises Allen's accolades, including his MVP status and multiple AFC Championship appearances, arguing that his compensation is well-justified given his contributions and potential.

"Josh Allen... you deserve that kind of paper. It's the highest in the league."
— Stephen A. Smith [07:00]

Smith expresses approval of Allen surpassing Prescott in earnings, emphasizing that performance and postseason success should dictate salary rankings.

Cleveland Browns: Myles Garrett's Controversial Extension

Timestamp: [07:15]

The most heated discussion centers on the Cleveland Browns' decision to extend defensive star Myles Garrett, despite his recent public statements expressing frustration with the team's lack of success.

"Miles Garrett wanted out of Cleveland last month by saying... 'the goal was never to go from Cleveland to Canton. It has always been to compete for and win a Super Bowl.'"
— Stephen A. Smith [07:45]

Smith scrutinizes the Browns' four-year, $123.5 million extension for Garrett, which averages $40 million per year and includes a no-trade clause. He references Garrett's earlier dissatisfaction stemming from the Browns' prolonged struggles—a 3-14 season and the absence of a Super Bowl appearance since 1989.

"If you draft Shador Sanders or Cam Ward, that's not the immediate answer. Which makes Miles Garrett's position kind of phony."
— Stephen A. Smith [08:35]

Acknowledging Garrett's undeniable talent—double-digit sacks since 2018 and being arguably the best defensive player in football—Smith balances his critique by praising Garrett’s on-field prowess while questioning the sincerity of his public statements about wanting to win.

"He's an absolute stud. He's sensational. There's no shade on him whatsoever."
— Stephen A. Smith [08:50]

Ultimately, Smith highlights the irony of high-profile contracts in teams that lack championship potential, suggesting that Garrett's massive contract may not align with the Browns' current trajectory towards rebuilding and striving for Super Bowl contention.

Insights and Conclusions

Throughout the episode, Stephen A. Smith offers insightful analysis on the intersection of player performance, contractual negotiations, and team strategies. He underscores the significant role that financial decisions play in shaping the NFL's competitive landscape, often questioning whether high salaries truly reflect a player's impact and a team's aspirations.

"See what money does to people. It makes the most excruciating situations seem easier to stomach."
— Stephen A. Smith [08:55]

Smith concludes by emphasizing the importance of aligning player compensation with both individual achievements and team goals, advocating for a more performance-driven approach to contracts to ensure that NFL franchises remain competitive and financially prudent.

Conclusion

In this episode, Stephen A. Smith provides a comprehensive and critical examination of recent NFL free agency moves, highlighting the complexities and repercussions of blockbuster contracts. His candid opinions offer listeners a deeper understanding of the strategic decisions shaping the future of their favorite teams and players.