The Herd with Colin Cowherd

This week, the focus is on Jerry Jones' questionable media comments and the need for more calculated communication. The top five storylines heading into the NFL season are revealed, highlighting key narratives to watch. Additionally, Ben Johnson's emerging leadership of the Bears is discussed, showcasing his potential impact. The dynamics of NFL contracts and owner influence are also explored, shedding light on how these factors shape team success and the pressures faced by players and coaches.

Join fantasy football analysts Pat Fitzmaurice and Derek Brown as they unravel the best value picks for the 2025 season. They spotlight rookie wide receiver Ted Aroa McMillan, discussing his potential in the Panthers' lineup. Tony Pollard's rising stock as a top running back is also highlighted. The duo dives into the promising abilities of quarterback Drake May and wide receiver George Pickens, emphasizing the significance of strategic drafting in maximizing fantasy football success.

Steve Sarkisian, head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team and a veteran in coaching from USC to Alabama, shares insights on the upcoming college football season. He emphasizes the significance of team cohesion and early-season matchups. The conversation also touches on challenges with new offensive line starters and the influence of NIL deals on recruitment and team culture. Sarkisian's expertise reveals the complex dynamics of modern college football while building excitement for the intense rivalries ahead.

Tua Tagovailoa stirs the pot by calling out Tyreek Hill after controversial comments during training camp. Speculation abounds about Hill's potential return to the Chiefs, and how that could shake up the team dynamics. Cam Newton and Jalen Hurts are compared, with a heated debate over their quarterback skills. Meanwhile, the WNBA sparks a protest for fair pay, highlighting the ongoing struggle for female athletes in the sports world. The discussions blend humor and insightful analysis on these hot topics.

Fans dive into the NBA offseason's hottest moves, with Kevin Durant heading to the Rockets and Cam Johnson joining the Nuggets grabbing headlines. The impact of these trades on team dynamics is explored, alongside the Bucks' decision to part ways with Damian Lillard. Comparisons arise between legends Jokic and Curry, while the Mavericks' potential with Kyrie Irving offers exciting prospects. Strategies for the Warriors and Lakers, including a potential trade for PJ Washington, round out the discussion as teams gear up for a thrilling season ahead.

Colin talks with John Middlekauff, a football analyst and host of the "3 and Out" podcast, diving deep into sports insights. They discuss Scottie Scheffler's rise in golfing stature, comparing him to Tiger Woods. The conversation shifts to college football's evolution and the potential return of Nick Saban to the NFL. They also evaluate the WNBA's growth, particularly through stars like Caitlin Clark, and debate the competitive dynamics within the NFL, questioning the myth of parity in team success.

Daniel Cormier returns to address a fiery exchange with Jon Jones, sparked by viral tweets just before a major fight. He fiercely debunks Jones' claims, stressing their twisted truthfulness. The rivalry's evolution is dissected, revealing the tension's impact on fans and fighters alike. Cormier also shares humorous anecdotes about competition, the challenges of misinformation in viral commentary, and personal reflections on fighting strategies. The episode blends intense debate with light-hearted storytelling about sports rivalries.

Sam Esfandiari, a keen analyst of the Golden State Warriors from the Light Years podcast, dives deep into the challenges facing the team. He discusses the complicated situation surrounding Jonathan Kuminga's contract and how it affects roster dynamics. The duo evaluates Al Horford’s potential impact and what it means for playoff aspirations. They also explore trade options with teams like the Kings and Suns while weighing the critical roles of star players like Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler in the chase for another title.

Caleb Williams is struggling to adapt to a new offensive scheme, raising concerns about his transition as a rookie quarterback. The discussion shifts to the contrasting careers of Michael Jordan and LeBron James, highlighting the enduring legacy of MJ. Additionally, the challenges new quarterbacks face in the NFL are explored, along with the dynamics between coaches and players. The impact of high-profile coaching changes in college football is also speculated, emphasizing the evolving landscape of the sport.

Former NFL head coach Dave Wannstedt joins the discussion on pressing training camp topics. He delves into Caleb Williams' rocky start and the coaching strategies necessary for rookie quarterbacks to thrive. Wannstedt emphasizes the adaptations athletes must make in today’s game and shares insights into the complexities of NFL trades, particularly the Rams' pursuit of Arch Manning. The conversation also covers the 49ers' draft strategies and the high stakes surrounding quarterback performance, highlighting how these factors shape the league's future.