Best of the week on The Herd

The Herd with Colin Cowherd1h 1mMay 2, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd features a deep dive into the recent NFL Draft, with co-host Matt Hasselbeck and guest Robert Mays of The Athletic providing sharp analysis on team strategies, player evaluations, and organizational dynamics. The discussion centers on key draft moves, particularly the Rams' selection of quarterback Ty Simpson at #13, which sparked controversy due to Matthew Stafford's reaction. Hosts debate whether the pick was a strategic masterstroke or a misstep, with strong arguments made for both the Rams' long-term planning and Stafford's potential frustration. The episode also explores broader themes like the separation of coaching and personnel roles, with critiques of Kyle Shanahan's influence in San Francisco and praise for coaches like Sean Payton and John Schneider who maintain balance. Other topics include the Bears' draft, the Cowboys' flexibility, and the importance of drafting for scheme fit and character. The conversation blends football strategy with cultural commentary, touching on mental toughness, multitasking, and the dangers of overvaluing a single skill set in leadership. The episode concludes with a reflective tone on legacy, identity, and the emotional weight of decision-making in high-stakes environments.

Key Takeaways
1

The Rams' selection of Ty Simpson was a strategic long-term move to secure a future franchise quarterback, even if it caused short-term friction with Matthew Stafford.

2

Coaching and personnel decisions should be separated—great coaches don't necessarily make great drafters, and over-involvement can lead to poor long-term roster building.

3

Teams like the Bears and Cowboys made smart, identity-driven picks focused on scheme fit, character, and depth rather than just immediate star power.

4

Draft success isn't just about picks—it's about continuity, health, and building a culture that supports development over time.

5

The emotional intelligence of leadership—especially in handling sensitive decisions like drafting a successor—is as important as football acumen.

Chapters
0:00
10 min

Intro & Podcast Promos

The episode opens with a series of iHeartRadio podcast promos, including The Clifford Show, Learn the Hard Way, Love Trapped, 2%, and Stu Gadsden Company, setting the stage for the sports commentary to follow.

10:00
10 min

Where Colin Was Right & Wrong: Draft & Player Evaluations

I've never thought he's got a great eye for college talent.

Highlight
20:00
20 min

The Rams' Ty Simpson Pick: Strategy vs. Emotion

I'm not going to pretend to make perfect decisions, but everything that we do is what we believe is in the best intent for the collective.

Highlight
40:00
20 min

Team-by-Team Draft Breakdown & Draft Philosophy

You earn everything. I'm excited for this team to be able to come together.

Highlight
1:00:00
20 min

Sean McVay on the Draft Process & Leadership

There was a combination of the work and the first thing, the most important thing for me... is what the film guide our approach.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
I'm not going to pretend to make perfect decisions, but everything that we do is what we believe is in the best intent for the collective.
Sean McVay48:25
Viral: 90.0
Coaching and personnel to me are two different things.
Colin Cowherd59:33
Viral: 88.0
I've never thought he's got a great eye for college talent.
Matt Hasselbeck5:43
Viral: 85.0
Speakers

Host

Colin Cowherd

Guests

Matt HasselbeckRobert Mays
Topics Discussed
NFL Draft Strategy95%Coaching vs Personnel Power90%Quarterback Development88%Team Identity & Scheme Fit85%Leadership & Emotional Intelligence82%Player Evaluation & Film Study80%Draft Controversies78%Long-Term Planning in Sports75%
People & Brands

Colin Cowherd

person

120xNeutral

Matt Hasselbeck

person

45xPositive

Rams

other

40xPositive

Sean McVay

person

38xPositive

Bears

other

35xPositive

Ty Simpson

person

35xPositive

Matthew Stafford

person

30xNeutral

Cowboys

other

30xPositive

Robert Mays

person

28xPositive

Niners

other

28xNegative

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