Dane Brugler with more draft thoughts and should we expect the Cowboys to move up in the first round of the draft

Shan and RJ12mApril 16, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The episode centers on a deep dive into the Dallas Cowboys' potential draft strategy, specifically whether they will trade up from pick 12 to select Sonny Stiles with the 6th overall pick. Analysts Dane Brugler, Todd McShay, and Mel Kuyper all suggest the Cowboys could move up, citing Stiles' elite combine numbers—6'5", 244 lbs, fastest 40-yard dash, top broad jump for his height—and his reputation as one of the smartest players in the draft. McShay outlines the trade cost: 12, 92, and next year’s second-round pick. The discussion weighs the value of acquiring a high-upside, intelligent off-ball linebacker to bolster Christian Parker’s defense, drawing parallels to the Eagles’ successful move for Jahad Campbell. However, Charles Robinson cautions against the move, suggesting the Cowboys feel confident in their ability to land impactful players at 12 without trading up. The hosts debate whether the Cowboys will stay put, trade down, or react dynamically to the board. A key scenario is explored: if Stiles, Caleb Downs, and Mansoor Delane remain available at picks 10–12, Dallas may choose not to move, preserving draft capital. The conversation blends analysis, skepticism, and humor, with hosts expressing mixed feelings about the hype around Stiles and the feasibility of a trade-up.

Key Takeaways
1

The Cowboys may trade up from 12 to 6 to select Sonny Stiles, but it’s not guaranteed.

2

Stiles’ elite combine metrics and football IQ make him a top-tier prospect, especially for a defense needing intelligence and athleticism.

3

Trading up would cost 12, 92, and next year’s second-round pick—significant capital for a single player.

4

Charles Robinson doubts the move, believing Dallas can get quality contributors at 12 without trading up.

5

If top prospects like Stiles, Downs, and Delane are still available at 10–12, Dallas may choose to stay put and avoid sacrificing future picks.

…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Opening Banter and Draft Hype

The hosts open with playful banter, referencing Broadus and a fictional '720' joke, before diving into the draft conversation. They set the stage by introducing the central question: will the Cowboys move up for Sonny Stiles?

2:00
3 min

The Case for Moving Up for Sonny Stiles

He should step in and improve the football IQ of this defense and help clean up the play at the second and third levels.

Highlight
5:00
4 min

Why the Cowboys Might Stay Put

They feel good about getting players who might not be instantaneous starters but can come in immediately and contribute to the 2026 team.

Highlight
9:00
4 min

The Board Scenario and Strategic Flexibility

If it happens that way, Dallas would watch the board and go, we're not moving. Why would we sacrifice that 20th pick knowing one of those three?

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
He should step in and improve the football IQ of this defense and help clean up the play at the second and third levels.
Todd McShay1:57
Viral: 85.0
If it happens that way, Dallas would watch the board and go, we're not moving. Why would we sacrifice that 20th pick knowing one of those three?
RJ11:17
Viral: 80.0
They feel good about getting players who might not be instantaneous starters but can come in immediately and contribute to the 2026 team.
Charles Robinson7:17
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Hosts

ShanRJ

Guest

Dane Brugler
Topics Discussed
Cowboys Draft Strategy90%Sonny Stiles Draft Profile85%Trade-Up Scenarios80%NFL Draft Capital Management75%Defensive Linebacker Needs70%Combine Performance Analysis65%Mock Draft Trends60%Team-Specific Draft Outlook55%
People & Brands

Sonny Stiles

person

12xPositive

Caleb Downs

person

5xPositive

Charles Robinson

person

4xNeutral

Broadus

person

4xNeutral

Mansoor Delane

person

4xPositive

Christian Parker

person

4xPositive

Todd McShay

person

4xPositive

Dane Brugler

person

3xPositive

Bobby

person

3xNeutral

Reuben Bain

person

2xNeutral

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