Rams had 'best opportunity to draft QB of the future' with 13th pick
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The Dukes and Bell podcast dives into the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing heavily on the Los Angeles Rams' selection of quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick. Hosts Mike Dukes and Mike Bell debate whether the Rams made a strategic move by drafting a quarterback so early, especially given Matthew Stafford’s potential final season. While one host argues the Rams should prioritize immediate defensive upgrades to support their Super Bowl window, the other defends the pick as a rare opportunity to secure a franchise quarterback when the team doesn’t currently need one. The discussion expands to other notable picks, praising Kansas City’s selection of top cornerback Mansoor Delane, the Cowboys’ high-upside pick of Caleb Downs, and the Jets’ and Giants’ impactful moves. The hosts also critique Arizona’s Jeremiah Love pick, questioning the offensive focus amid a tough NFC West with elite quarterbacks. The episode concludes with a deep dive into the Atlanta Falcons’ upcoming second-round opportunities, highlighting potential fits like C.J. Allen at linebacker and the importance of culture-building players.
The Rams' 13th pick was a strategic move to secure a future quarterback, especially if Matthew Stafford retires after 2026.
Drafting a quarterback early is controversial when your team is still in a Super Bowl window, but the Rams may have seized a rare first-round opportunity.
Teams like Kansas City, Cowboys, and Giants made strong, impactful picks that address immediate needs and long-term development.
The Falcons have a wide-open board in the second round and should prioritize defensive upgrades, especially at linebacker and defensive line.
Culture and physicality—'eating pencils'—are critical traits for linebackers, especially in building a dominant defense.
Opening: Hawks Win & NFL Draft Hype
The hosts kick off with a recap of the Atlanta Hawks' Game 3 win and transition into the NFL Draft, setting the stage for a deep analysis of first-round picks.
Rams' Ty Simpson Pick: Risk or Vision?
“The best time to draft a quarterback is when you don't need one. Baloney. When your window is right now for Matthew Stafford, you've got to get the most impactful defensive player.”
Rams' Draft Strategy & Long-Term Vision
The hosts explore the Rams’ history of drafting and developing talent, arguing that their track record supports a long-term quarterback investment despite immediate defensive needs.
Other Teams' Draft Successes & Critiques
“If you have Jeremiah Love, it means nothing if you can stop none of those quarterbacks that I called out.”
Falcons’ Second-Round Opportunity & Culture Building
“C.J. Allen eat pencils. Okay. I mean, I'm saying that in a way that he is – his football DNA is run into you all the time.”
“C.J. Allen eat pencils. Okay. I mean, I'm saying that in a way that he is – his football DNA is run into you all the time.”
“The best time to draft a quarterback is when you don't need one. Baloney. When your window is right now for Matthew Stafford, you've got to get the most impactful defensive player.”
“You've got to be a little throwed off. Like you've got to have that mentality where you don't mind eating a few pencils here and there because that's the type of dude you are.”
Hosts
Guest
Los Angeles Rams
other
Matthew Stafford
person
Ty Simpson
person
Atlanta Falcons
other
Brian McFadden
person
Kansas City Chiefs
other
Mansoor Delane
person
Caleb Downs
person
C.J. Allen
person
Pittsburgh Steelers
other
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