BEST CASE: Ranking The TOP NFL Draft Outcomes For The Dallas Cowboys | Will Downs Fall To No. 12?

In this episode of Locked On Cowboys, hosts Marcus Mosher and Landon McCool dive into the best-case scenarios for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on their first-round selection at pick 12. They explore the ideal outcome: a top-tier defensive player—Mansoor Delane, Sonny Styles, or Caleb Downs—falling to the Cowboys due to a crowded offensive player pool in the top 11. The hosts emphasize that with at least five offensive players likely to be selected before pick 12, defensive talent could be undervalued and available. They also discuss strategic trade scenarios, including trading up to pick 6 for Arvel Reese or making a multi-pick deal with Arizona to land Reese at #3, and trading down to gain additional value and depth. The episode highlights the importance of drafting foundational, high-value players on cheap contracts rather than reaching for offensive linemen or flawed defensive prospects. The hosts express strong skepticism about drafting offensive tackles like Spencer Fano or Francis Mauanoa at 12, calling it a misallocation of resources, and warn against drafting players like C.J. Allen or Mesador due to injury risks and lack of long-term upside. The overarching theme is maximizing value through smart draft strategy, with Miles Garrett being the ultimate 'best case' if available via trade.