2024's NFL teams that make us want to cry, Justin Herbert in a boot, Tristan Wirfs gets the bag | Football 301
Aug 2, 2024
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Justin Herbert, the Los Angeles Chargers quarterback, grapples with a foot injury, casting a shadow over the team's future. Meanwhile, Tristan Wirfs, a standout offensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, celebrates his lucrative new contract. The hosts dive into the emotional lows of NFL fandom, spotlighting the struggles of teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Denver Broncos. Discussions also revolve around the uncertainty of the Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback situation, leaving fans with a mix of sadness and cautious hope for the upcoming season.
Justin Herbert's foot injury raises concerns about the Los Angeles Chargers' ability to perform effectively at the start of the season.
Tristan Wirfs' substantial new contract highlights the trend of increasing cap space and the value placed on offensive linemen in the NFL.
Inconsistent performances from teams like the Steelers and Broncos evoke frustration among fans, emphasizing the need for improved offensive strategies.
Deep dives
Justin Herbert's Injury Woes
Justin Herbert, the quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers, is currently on a walking boot due to plantar fasciitis in his right foot. This condition can significantly affect his performance, especially at the start of the season when he needs to be in top shape. Injuries like this can linger and create complications, impacting both his mobility and the overall offense that relies heavily on his skills. The Chargers’ history of problems makes this situation particularly troubling for fans looking for a fresh start with a new head coach.
Tristan Wurfs' Landmark Contract
Tristan Wurfs recently signed a massive five-year contract worth over $140 million, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL. This significant achievement comes after he transitioned to left tackle from his original role as a right tackle, showcasing his versatility and skill level. His success is also a reflection of the overall trend in increasing cap space, which has led to top players receiving hefty contracts. This marks a notable moment in the 2020 offensive tackle draft class, where he emerged as one of the standout performers.
Frustrations with NFL Offenses
There are ongoing concerns over inconsistent team performances that evoke feelings of frustration among fans. Teams struggle to establish a solid offensive identity, leading to uninspiring play on the field. The mention of Kenny Pickett and the Pittsburgh Steelers highlights a lack of excitement around their offense, which can detract from the overall enjoyment of the games. Such performances can lead to a poor viewing experience, further supporting the sentiment that some teams need to recalibrate their strategies.
Fantasy Football's Big Incentives
A joint initiative between Yahoo Sports and NBC Sports is ramping up excitement for the upcoming fantasy football season by offering a chance to win $1 million. Participants can easily enter by joining a private Yahoo Fantasy Football League and drafting their team. Scoring touchdowns in the week one games on NBC and Peacock can greatly enhance their chances, with participants eligible for multiple entries. This innovative sweepstakes is designed to increase engagement and excitement surrounding fantasy football as the new season approaches.
Concerns Over Rookie Quarterbacks
The discussion surrounding rookie quarterbacks reveals a critical view of the evaluation process, particularly regarding their initial performances. Many analysts emphasize caution in drawing conclusions from early drills, knowing these evaluations can often be misleading. The focus should be on performance during actual games rather than practice sessions, which are subject to various contexts that can distort perceptions of talent. It's essential to temper expectations until these players have the opportunity to compete in live, high-pressure situations.
It's only August 1st and things are already looking charger-y for the Los Angeles Chargers. Justin Herbert is in a walking boot for the next two weeks, following a plantar fascia diagnosis on Thursday afternoon, so Nate Tice and Charles McDonald kick off the episode with the latest bad omen for the team that just can never seem to catch a break.
Later, after discussing the new contract for Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs, arguably the most successful tackle product from the 2020 draft class, the guys return to the sour note and share the teams, players and general football things that make them the saddest entering the 2024 season. Both Russell Wilson's current team (the Pittsburgh Steelers) and his former team (the Denver Broncos) make the cut, as well as both teams Derek Carr has suited up for in the Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints. Who else is making Nate and Charles sad as football season approaches? Give the episode a listen to find out.
(3:06) - Justin Herbert dealing with a foot injury
(5:34) - Tristan Wirfs secures the bag, remembering the 2020 NFL draft's round 1 OTs
(12:43) - Things that make us want to cry: The Pittsburgh Steelers offense with Russell Wilson