About this episode
John opens the show breaking down a massive shake-up in the NFL as the Rams and Chiefs pull off a blockbuster trade that could shift the balance of power in the AFC and NFC. Who won the deal? Who’s taking the bigger risk? And what does it mean heading into the season? We also dive into the latest drama surrounding Maxx Crosby and the Raiders. Plus, John mentions the news of Stefon Diggs being released by the Patriots. And finally, we take a moment to reflect on the passing of Lou Holtz — honoring the legacy, impact, and unforgettable moments from one of football’s most iconic voices. Follow John on Twitter , and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet Check out Gametime - the fastest growing ticketing app in the US, and the official ticketing app of 3 & Out and GoLow - for tickets to all of your favorite NFL, NBA, NHL, NCAA teams. Concert and comedy show tickets, too. Go to Gametime now to create an account, download the app and use code JOHN for $20 off your first purchase. #Volume #Herd See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Episode summary
I’m a little under the weather, but a blockbuster dropped and I had to jump on. The Chiefs sent Trent McDuffie to the Rams for a first, Mike Silver peeled back the Max Crosby situation, and we lost Lou Holtz at eighty-nine; mailbag tomorrow, DMs open on Instagram, and make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss an episode.
Why are big NFL trades popping year-round now? The league’s shifted from cautious to aggressive, with modern GMs treating picks like currency and owners sitting on huge valuations, so fireworks can hit any week, not just draft night.
Why would Kansas City move a core defender? They love McDuffie’s makeup and see an elite slot, but they weren’t comfortable paying outside-corner money for a role they don’t view as thirty-million-dollars-a-year value.
How does it fit the Chiefs’ plan? Flipping him for pick twenty-nine keeps the cupboard stocked alongside their top-ten pick and sets up an aggressive draft to target line help while using extra capital to maneuver.
What’s the Rams’ angle? They were a contender with a leaky secondary, and using that ‘found’ first to land a versatile, high-floor corner is cleaner than hoping pick twenty-nine becomes a day-one difference maker.
Any ripple effects in Los Angeles? Paying an incoming DB before taking care of Puka Nacua could stress the locker room hierarchy, so expect the front office to tackle Puka’s deal sooner rather than later.
So who won the trade? It’s a rare win-win: Kansas City preserves flexibility and avoids a role-mismatch payday, and Los Angeles plugs a playoff-critical hole with a proven, scheme-versatile defender.
What’s the latest on Max Crosby? He’s revered by coaches for motor and character, the market will be massive, and a true bidding war could push the price into multiple firsts rather than a first and spare parts.
What about Tom Brady’s influence in Vegas? Alex Guerrero’s presence and Tom’s distance can create trust issues; if you want a voice in football decisions, being in the building matters.
Quick note on the other headline name. Talented as he is, the off-field noise made the calculus simple for a buttoned-up staff: not worth the drag.
Closing on Lou Holtz. He was a one-of-one voice who revived Notre Dame, lifted South Carolina, and became part coach, part entertainer; a sad day, but an easy smile remembering the impact—rest in peace, Lou Holtz.