Hour 2: Todd Archer on Cowboys Draft Strategy and the Pickens Tag Drama

Shan and RJ47mApril 23, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The episode opens with a high-energy recap of a dramatic overtime hockey game between the Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild, highlighting Miro Haskinen's standout 43-minute shift and the importance of special teams. Hosts Sean and RJ transition into NFL Draft coverage, focusing on the Cowboys' decision to place the franchise tag on George Pickens instead of negotiating a long-term deal. Todd Archer, ESPN insider, joins the discussion, explaining that the Cowboys are seeking a larger sample size of Pickens' performance before committing to a long-term contract, citing financial prudence and the need to avoid overpaying. Archer suggests the move puts pressure on Pickens and his agent, with the Cowboys likely expecting Pickens to play under the tag. The conversation then shifts to draft strategy, with Archer expressing confidence that the Cowboys will stay at pick 12, potentially selecting Caleb Downs, Jordan Tyson, or a defensive player like Delaney. He also discusses the possibility of a trade or a strategic move down if a top-tier player is available. The hosts debate whether the Cowboys' approach is consistent with their 'three-year window' philosophy, with some arguing it's a sign of inconsistency. The episode closes with speculation about Pickens' future, the team's leadership concerns, and the broader implications of the tag strategy on team culture and player development.

Key Takeaways
1

The Cowboys are using the franchise tag on George Pickens to gain more data before committing to a long-term deal.

2

Pickens is expected to play under the tag, missing out on eight weeks of paychecks if he sits out, which could be financially detrimental.

3

The Cowboys are confident a top-tier player will be available at pick 12, potentially allowing them to avoid trading up.

4

There is growing speculation that the Cowboys may be preparing to trade Pickens after this season, using the tag as leverage.

5

The team’s draft strategy hinges on balancing immediate needs with long-term planning, with defensive players like Caleb Downs and Jordan Tyson being top targets.

Chapters
0:00
10 min

Hockey Recap: Stars vs. Wild Game 3 Drama

The episode opens with a detailed recap of a thrilling overtime game between the Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild, emphasizing Miro Haskinen's 43-minute shift, the importance of special teams, and the physicality of the matchup. The hosts reflect on the series' intensity and the Stars' resilience.

10:00
10 min

The George Pickens Franchise Tag Decision

They're not going to give in to David. We're not going to let him win. So our only way we can win and come away with us feeling like we won this is to make him play on the tag this year and make him sit there and do it.

Highlight
20:00
10 min

Draft Strategy: Cowboys at Pick 12

The discussion shifts to the Cowboys' draft strategy, with Todd Archer expressing confidence they’ll stay at pick 12. He outlines potential targets like Caleb Downs, Jordan Tyson, and Delaney, and discusses the possibility of moving down if a top player is available.

30:00
10 min

The Leadership and Culture Debate Around Pickens

It just seems inconsistent and like they're unable to make up their mind or that he way outperformed what they thought he was even possible of.

Highlight
40:00
10 min

Fan Reactions and the Future of the Pickens Situation

The episode concludes with a look at fan reactions on social media, including criticism of having two $30 million receivers and speculation about hidden negatives about Pickens. The hosts discuss the long-term implications of the tag and potential trade scenarios.

High-Impact Quotes
They're not going to give in to David. We're not going to let him win. So our only way we can win and come away with us feeling like we won this is to make him play on the tag this year and make him sit there and do it.
RJ45:25
Viral: 85.0
If he shows up week 10 and he's bypassed the first eight weeks of paychecks that way, well, that's money he's never going to get back. Ask Le'Veon Bell how it worked out for him, right?
Todd Archer20:31
Viral: 82.0
The Cowboys are not going to be having any negotiations with GP throughout the remainder of this offseason.
Stephen Jones17:16
Viral: 80.0
Speakers

Hosts

SeanRJ

Guest

Todd Archer
Topics Discussed
george pickens situation92%franchise tag strategy90%cowboys draft strategy85%team culture and leadership78%player development and performance70%financial decision making in sports68%draft day coverage65%player-agent negotiations60%
People & Brands

george pickens

person

45xMixed

dallas cowboys

other

38xNeutral

todd archer

person

32xPositive

dak prescott

person

18xPositive

cee dee lamb

person

15xPositive

caleb downs

person

14xNeutral

brian schottenheimer

person

12xPositive

jordan tyson

person

12xNeutral

dallas stars

other

10xPositive

minnesota wild

other

8xNeutral

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