Which players would concern you if the Cowboys took them at 12?
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Shan and RJ dive into the latest mock drafts and draft speculation surrounding the Dallas Cowboys' 12th overall pick, focusing on whether top prospects like Caleb Downs and Sonny Stiles will still be available. They react to Peter Schrager's initial mock draft placing Downs at 12, only to retract it the next day, sparking debate over whether Downs could realistically last that long. The hosts explore alternative targets, including Keldrick Falk—a 6'7" defensive lineman rumored to be on the Cowboys' radar but widely unpopular among fans and analysts due to concerns about his pass rush ability and effort. They also examine Mel Kuyper Jr.'s bold mock draft, which envisions the Cowboys trading up from 12 to 6 to select Sonny Stiles, a move that would address their dire defensive needs. The discussion weighs the risks of trading up versus settling for value at 12 or 20, with differing opinions on whether the Cowboys should prioritize elite talent over positional need. The episode underscores the uncertainty of the 2026 draft class, especially with top-tier defensive players expected to go early and the Cowboys' lack of defensive identity in 2025.
Caleb Downs is unlikely to still be available at 12th overall, with most experts believing he'll be gone by pick 10.
Keldrick Falk is a name surfacing in Cowboys draft chatter, but he's widely disliked by fans and analysts due to concerns about his effort and pass rush ability.
Mel Kuyper Jr.'s mock draft proposes a bold trade up to 6 to draft Sonny Stiles, addressing the Cowboys' lack of defensive edge and pass rush.
The Cowboys may consider trading down from 12 to 20 or even 39 to preserve future draft capital while still getting value.
TJ Parker from Clemson is a strong second-round fit for the Cowboys, offering a steady, high-effort edge rusher with upside.
Opening Rundown and Draft Speculation
The hosts kick off with a quick update on the podcast schedule and a lighthearted moment about the office elevator. They transition into the main topic: the latest mock drafts and the buzz around Caleb Downs being available at 12.
Caleb Downs at 12: A Dream or a Mirage?
“I would say me putting Caleb Downs going 12th overall, every piece of feedback I've gotten since I put that pick out there has been, there is no way on God's green earth that Caleb Downs is still available at 12th overall.”
Keldrick Falk: The Controversial Name on the Radar
“He's just there. He's 6'7". Big guy. And it's just, he's there. It's not...”
Mel Kuyper Jr.'s Bold Mock: Trade Up for Sonny Stiles
“Dallas would trade 12-20 to Cleveland for 6-39. That means the Browns suddenly have three first round picks and it means the Cowboys add Sonny Stiles, linebacker, Ohio State.”
Trade Strategy: Up, Down, or Stay Put?
The hosts debate the Cowboys' options: trade up for a top-tier player, trade down to preserve capital, or stay at 12 and take a value pick. They weigh the opportunity cost of missing a linebacker in the second round.
“Dallas would trade 12-20 to Cleveland for 6-39. That means the Browns suddenly have three first round picks and it means the Cowboys add Sonny Stiles, linebacker, Ohio State.”
“I would say me putting Caleb Downs going 12th overall, every piece of feedback I've gotten since I put that pick out there has been, there is no way on God's green earth that Caleb Downs is still available at 12th overall.”
“Don't screw around. Get your player because of the fall off of the uncertainty.”
Hosts
Dallas Cowboys
organization
Caleb Downs
person
Sonny Stiles
person
Keldrick Falk
person
New York Giants
organization
Peter Schrager
person
Dylan Thienemann
person
Mel Kuyper Jr.
person
Cleveland Browns
organization
TJ Parker
person
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