Trade scenarios for picks 12 and 20 for the Cowboys
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Shan and RJ dive deep into potential trade scenarios for the Dallas Cowboys' first-round picks at 12 and 20, exploring the strategic implications of trading up to select top-tier talent. They analyze a proposed deal with Cleveland—trading picks 12 and 20 for picks 6 and 39—highlighting the Cowboys' potential to land a ready-to-contribute player like Sonny Stiles at 6, while still securing a high-impact second-round pick at 39. The hosts debate the value of drafting older, more experienced players like Stooks (a 25-year-old rookie corner), questioning whether the Cowboys might prioritize immediate impact over long-term development. They also examine alternative trade paths, including moving up to pick 9 for Caleb Downs or pick 3 for David Bailey, weighing the cost of capital against the upside of landing a franchise-defining player. Throughout, they emphasize the Cowboys' 'win-now' mentality, the importance of avoiding overpayment, and the pressure to make smart, well-informed decisions under the draft spotlight.
The Cowboys may trade picks 12 and 20 to the Browns for picks 6 and 39 to secure a top-tier player like Sonny Stiles at pick 6 and still retain a high second-round pick.
There's growing speculation that the Cowboys could prioritize experienced, ready-to-play players (e.g., 25-year-old rookies) over younger, higher-ceiling prospects.
Trading up to pick 6 is seen as a high-stakes move that could pay off if the target (e.g., Stiles or Downs) falls, but carries risk of overpaying.
The absence of a second-round pick is a major constraint, making trades that restore it highly valuable.
The team’s win-now window may drive aggressive moves, especially if key targets like Stiles or Downs don’t fall to 12.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Excitement of Two First-Round Picks
Shan and RJ express their enthusiasm for the Cowboys having two first-round picks, relishing the draft coverage, rumors, and fan energy. They reflect on the unique experience of being immersed in the draft atmosphere and the joy of following the process from afar.
The Cleveland Trade-Up Scenario: 12-20 for 6-39
“If that is the exact compensation, Dallas wins that on the trade chart by I think a couple hundred points.”
The Case for Older, Ready-to-Play Players
“It's another older player. He's going to be a 25-year-old rookie.”
Alternative Trade Paths: Up to 9 or 3
The hosts explore other trade scenarios, including moving up to pick 9 for Caleb Downs or pick 3 for David Bailey. They weigh the cost of capital against the potential return and the risk of overpaying.
The Risk of Overpaying and Being 'Tricked'
“I just don't want them to get tricked by someone and being like, we think Downs is going there.”
“If that is the exact compensation, Dallas wins that on the trade chart by I think a couple hundred points.”
“I just don't want them to get tricked by someone and being like, we think Downs is going there.”
“I don't want to be bitter about that. All these trade-up scenarios we've been doing recently have the Cowboys winning the deal, and I'm just pre-programmed to believe that that's not reality.”
Hosts
Dallas Cowboys
other
Shan
person
RJ
person
Dane Brugler
person
Cleveland Browns
other
Sonny Stiles
other
Caleb Downs
other
David Bailey
other
Jake Golday
other
Stooks
other
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