The Terrible Podcast — Questions For McCarthy, Rodgers' Value, ESPN 7-Round Mock, Cooper Jr. & More
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “The Terrible Podcast — Questions For McCarthy, Rodgers' Value, ESPN 7-Round Mock, Cooper Jr. & More” inside PodZeus.
The Terrible Podcast dives deep into the latest Steelers offseason developments, starting with speculation around Mike McCarthy's absence from most pro days despite being credentialed for several. Hosts Dave Bryan and Alex Cazura debate whether McCarthy's limited presence reflects a strategic shift or a missed opportunity for player evaluation, particularly as the team prepares for the 2026 season. They explore the implications of Aaron Rodgers' ongoing decision-making process, with Art Rooney II suggesting a resolution before the draft, though the team remains in limbo. The hosts analyze Rodgers' potential contract value, estimating a $15–17 million base deal with incentives, while dismissing claims of a $30 million demand as speculative. They critique ESPN’s Matt Miller’s seven-round mock draft for Pittsburgh, calling it overly heavy on offensive linemen and neglectful of wide receiver needs, and highlight top college receivers like Cardinal Tate, Makai Lemon, and Omar Cooper Jr. based on yards-per-route-run data. The discussion shifts to scouting philosophy, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation beyond surface-level strengths. The episode concludes with listener emails weighing in on draft strategy, pro day attendance, and the importance of drafting impactful players now rather than betting on future classes.
Mike McCarthy and Omar Khan’s absence from most pro days raises questions about player evaluation and team culture, despite their credentials.
Aaron Rodgers’ decision timeline remains uncertain, but Art Rooney II expects clarity before the draft, though no contract has been offered yet.
A $15–17 million base salary with incentives is a realistic expectation for Rodgers, not the $30 million figure speculated by some.
ESPN’s mock draft for the Steelers is criticized for overvaluing offensive linemen and undervaluing wide receivers, especially in the first two rounds.
Omar Cooper Jr. and Makai Lemon are top receiver prospects with high route-running efficiency and potential to be impact players in Mike McCarthy’s system.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Opening: NFL League Meetings & McCarthy's Pro Day Absence
“I would ask him to confirm what pro days he attended this year. Was it just Georgia? And if it was just the Bulldogs pro day, why did you only go to one and skip Ohio State, which you were credentialed for?”
Aaron Rodgers' Decision Timeline & Contract Expectations
“I think at least where I stand from and the cap inflation and the way Aaron Rodgers played last year. Yeah, I agree. I think you're talking somewhere at least a starting point of $15 million that he's guaranteed to earn in 2026.”
Critique of ESPN’s 7-Round Mock Draft for the Steelers
The hosts dissect ESPN’s Matt Miller mock draft, criticizing its heavy focus on offensive linemen and lack of receiver picks in the first two rounds. They argue the draft fails to address Pittsburgh’s key needs and is unrealistic in its projections.
Receiver Scouting: Yards Per Route Run & Top Prospects
“If I told you after his first four seasons, Omar Cooper Jr. in Pittsburgh would have 275 catches for 3,800 yards and 22 touchdown receptions. Would you take him at 21st overall? And I guarantee you at least those numbers there yeah i probably would.”
Scouting Philosophy: Beyond Strengths to Critical Evaluation
“I think it's okay to look at a player a little more harshly and critically, like you said. Because I think you have to find ways to separate these guys from all the almost infinite decisions that you could make.”
“If I told you after his first four seasons, Omar Cooper Jr. in Pittsburgh would have 275 catches for 3,800 yards and 22 touchdown receptions. Would you take him at 21st overall? And I guarantee you at least those numbers there yeah i probably would.”
“I think at least where I stand from and the cap inflation and the way Aaron Rodgers played last year. Yeah, I agree. I think you're talking somewhere at least a starting point of $15 million that he's guaranteed to earn in 2026.”
“I would ask him to confirm what pro days he attended this year. Was it just Georgia? And if it was just the Bulldogs pro day, why did you only go to one and skip Ohio State, which you were credentialed for?”
Hosts
Aaron Rodgers
person
Mike McCarthy
person
Omar Khan
person
Omar Cooper Jr.
person
Cardinal Tate
person
Art Rooney II
person
Makai Lemon
person
Matt Miller
person
Michael Pittman Jr.
person
Caden Proctor
person
The Terrible Podcast — Mike McCarthy Media Sessions, WR Measurables Talk, QB Selection, Pre-Draft Visits, & More
Steelers Podcast - The Terrible Podcast • 1h 41m • 4/7/2026
The Terrible Podcast — Queen Agent Change, Cousins Contract, Ioane Sliding, Explosive Pass Plays Study & More
Steelers Podcast - The Terrible Podcast • 1h 39m • 4/7/2026
The Terrible Podcast — Two Steelers OL Signings, Another Visitor Scheduled, Homer Signing, McCorkle Mock & More
Steelers Podcast - The Terrible Podcast • 1h 34m • 4/7/2026
The Terrible Podcast — Steelers Pre-Draft Visits, Pro Day Sightings, Trades Increasing, Salary Cap Update & More
Steelers Podcast - The Terrible Podcast • 1h 36m • 4/7/2026
The Depot Dive - Episode 95 - March 27, 2026
Steelers Podcast - The Terrible Podcast • 36m • 4/7/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “The Terrible Podcast — Questions For McCarthy, Rodgers' Value, ESPN 7-Round Mock, Cooper Jr. & More” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime