ESPN Cowboys beat writer Todd Archer joins the show to preview the NFL Draft tonight and who the Cowboys might draft

On this draft-day episode of Shan and RJ, ESPN Cowboys beat writer Todd Archer joins the show to break down the Cowboys' approach to the 2026 NFL Draft and their ongoing standoff with wide receiver George Pickens. The conversation opens with a surreal moment: former President Bill Clinton unexpectedly appearing at a Cowboys press conference, which becomes a viral sensation—though it quickly pales in comparison to the major news that the Cowboys have declined to negotiate with Pickens, opting instead to place the franchise tag on him. Archer explains the financial and strategic rationale behind the move, emphasizing the Cowboys’ desire to avoid a July 15th deadline negotiation and gain leverage by forcing Pickens to play under the tag. The discussion explores whether this is a calculated delay or a prelude to a future divorce, with Archer noting the team’s long-term plan appears to be evaluating Pickens’ performance before deciding on a long-term deal. The focus then shifts to the draft, where Archer expresses confidence that the Cowboys will stay at pick 12, possibly trading up to 9 or 6 if a top-tier defensive player like Caleb Downs or Jalen Styles falls. He ranks Downs, Styles, and Delaney as top targets, while expressing skepticism about taking Jordan Tyson at 12, despite having mocked him in a previous draft. Archer also weighs in on potential second-round targets like Reuben Bain and Jermon McCoy, acknowledging the team’s defensive needs but noting the lack of a strong linebacker class. Throughout, he reflects on the challenges and occasional missteps of mock drafting, emphasizing the importance of staying informed even when predictions are wrong.