RISKY BUSINESS: Could Cowboys Consider LOSING Trade To Move Down From No. 12? | NFL Mock Draft!

In this episode of Locked On Cowboys, hosts Marcus Mosher and Landon McCool explore a provocative mock draft scenario: what if the Dallas Cowboys intentionally lose a trade to move back from the No. 12 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft? The discussion centers on the idea that the Cowboys may not have a clear first-round target at 12—neither Reuben Bain nor Jermon McCoy appear to be top priorities—and that trading back could be a strategic move, even if it means accepting less value. The hosts simulate a trade with the Carolina Panthers, giving up pick 12 for a third-round pick (83) and a later selection, allowing them to avoid a potential reach. They then draft Aki Mesidor at 19, Colton Hood at 20, and Dante Corleone at 83, with plans to use the extra picks to target a high-impact player in the 60s range or trade for a veteran linebacker. While the mock is not flawless, the hosts argue it’s far better than staying at 12 and drafting a player they don’t truly value. The episode also highlights the importance of opportunity cost and the risks of overvaluing 'winning' a trade at all costs. The hosts emphasize that while losing value on a trade back is suboptimal, it’s not catastrophic—especially in the bottom half of the first round where talent remains plentiful. They suggest that the extra pick could be used to package with others to land a second-round talent or even trade for a proven veteran. The episode concludes with a strong endorsement of the strategy as a way to avoid bad fits and maintain roster flexibility. The discussion is framed as a thought experiment to challenge conventional wisdom around draft positioning and value, ultimately advocating for smarter, more strategic decision-making over rigid adherence to 'winning' trades.