Hour 2: Previewing Day 2 and Day 3 of the NFL Draft
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Hour 2: Previewing Day 2 and Day 3 of the NFL Draft” inside PodZeus.
In this episode of Shan and RJ, the hosts break down the Dallas Cowboys' pivotal first-round selections in the 2026 NFL Draft: Caleb Downs at 11 and Malachi Lawrence at 23. They analyze the strategic brilliance of Jerry Jones and the front office, who traded two fifth-round picks to move up just one spot to secure Downs, a move described as a 'draft day clinic' due to its precision and risk mitigation. The discussion highlights Downs' elite intelligence, coverage versatility, and leadership, countering concerns about his limited deep coverage tape. The selection of Lawrence, a high-upside pass rusher, is praised for its value and fit within Brian Schottenheimer’s defense, despite some late riser skepticism. The hosts also reflect on the chaotic, fast-paced nature of the draft, the absurdity of ESPN’s production, and the emotional high of fan reactions at local Pluckers locations. They conclude with a viral AI-generated video of Keldrick Falko, which sparked widespread conversation about deepfakes in sports media.
The Cowboys' trade for Caleb Downs at pick 11 was a masterclass in draft-day strategy—using two fifth-round picks to secure a top-10 talent with zero risk.
Caleb Downs’ elite football IQ and ability to install defensive schemes pre-draft make him a rare, high-impact safety with immediate value.
Malachi Lawrence’s selection at 23 was a smart value pick, offering high upside as a pass rusher with elite athleticism and chase-down ability.
Fan engagement at local Pluckers locations was electric, with fans celebrating Downs’ selection like a championship win.
The draft’s fast pace and ESPN’s poor production were widely criticized, with hosts calling it '6,000 hours behind' and 'awful'.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
Caleb Downs Drafted at #11: A Draft-Day Masterclass
“We bought big-time insurance. We think that much of him. Said, man, here he is in our hands. We got him. Let's go ahead and spend it.”
Malachi Lawrence at #23: The Diamond in the Rough
The Cowboys select Malachi Lawrence in the second round, a late riser with elite pass-rushing upside. The hosts debate concerns about his late draft rise but ultimately praise the value and fit in the defense.
Fan Reactions and the Pluckers Effect
“Everybody was so excited about the fact that we got this player who they think is going to be a very special player. And then everybody had a lot more leeway.”
The AI Video That Broke the Internet
“This is AI. Somebody created this. Well, six years ago we didn't have it. Remember. Somebody did. You can create a photo to make it look like you were there six years ago.”
“The draft is my domain. I snort it up, it's my cocaine. Put the work in since November.”
“We bought big-time insurance. We think that much of him. Said, man, here he is in our hands. We got him. Let's go ahead and spend it.”
“You can create a photo to make it look like you were there six years ago. Right? Government clearly had AI back then. Had to.”
Hosts
Dallas Cowboys
other
Caleb Downs
person
Malachi Lawrence
person
Jerry Jones
person
Pluckers
organization
Brian Schottenheimer
person
ESPN
media
Keldrick Falko
person
Los Angeles Rams
other
Ty Simpson
person
The Cowboys sign DL Jonathan Bullard and Brian Schottenheimer spoke at the owner's meeting
Shan and RJ • 13m • 3/31/2026
Hour 1: NFL Owner's meeting recap and more Pro Days today
Shan and RJ • 40m • 3/31/2026
The Rangers' offense continues to roll except for Josh Jung
Shan and RJ • 14m • 3/31/2026
Hour 2: Dan Hurley got too close to the ref and Josh Jung has been BAD to start the season
Shan and RJ • 47m • 3/31/2026
Below the Belt: What is the most Cowboys thing they've ever done?
Shan and RJ • 11m • 3/31/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Hour 2: Previewing Day 2 and Day 3 of the NFL Draft” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime