How can the Cowboys address the nickel position in the draft?

Shan and RJ19mApril 17, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of Shan and RJ, the hosts dive deep into the Dallas Cowboys' pressing need to address their nickel position in the upcoming NFL Draft. They begin by discussing the evolving role of safeties in modern defenses, emphasizing the rise of hybrid 'big nickel' players who can play both deep safety and slot corner. The conversation centers on Caleb Downs, whom they praise for his elite football IQ and versatility, despite concerns about his size. They debate whether Downs should be taken at 12 overall, even if the Cowboys' top need is corner, arguing that his ability to play nickel and safety makes him a perfect fit. The hosts explore alternative options like A.J. Halsey, Keontae Scott, Jalen Kilgore, and Kyle Lewis, highlighting their unique skill sets and potential roles in a modern defense. They also discuss the possibility of trading up from pick 20 to secure Downs or Sonny Styles, analyzing the cost and feasibility of such moves with teams like the Rams, Jets, and Ravens. The episode ends on a humorous note, comparing the idea of moving a running back to linebacker to the Cowboys' potential use of Downs as a positionless unicorn.

Key Takeaways
1

Caleb Downs is a high-upside, positionless hybrid with elite football intelligence who can play both safety and nickel corner.

2

The Cowboys' defensive scheme is evolving toward a 'big nickel' role, making versatile safeties with coverage and run-stopping skills highly valuable.

3

If Downs is available at 12, the Cowboys should consider trading up from 20 to secure him, even if it means sacrificing a corner.

4

Alternative options like A.J. Halsey, Keontae Scott, and Kyle Lewis offer unique skill sets that fit the modern hybrid safety mold.

5

Trading up from 20 to 11 or 13 is feasible with the right package, potentially involving next year’s second-round pick and a late-round pick.

Chapters
0:00
3 min

Weather, Life, and the Draft Mindset

The hosts open with a casual conversation about the weather in DeSoto, Texas, sharing personal anecdotes about driving, car seats, and family life, setting a relaxed tone before diving into draft analysis.

3:00
3 min

The Evolution of the Nickel Position

In the era of two deep defenses influenced by Vic Fangio and Mike McDonald, I'm moving away from the terms post safeties and strong safeties and categorizing safeties as deep safeties, big nickels, and do-it-all safeties who can do both and more.

Highlight
6:00
4 min

Caleb Downs: The Ultimate Hybrid Prospect

I'm a fan of his brains. I'm not looking at him going, oh my God, that's a heat-seeking missile.

Highlight
10:00
4 min

Alternative Targets: Halsey, Scott, Kilgore, and Lewis

He has the man skills to match up with slot receivers and strong click and close ability playing underneath zones.

Highlight
14:00
5 min

Trading Up: The Dream Scenario for the Cowboys

I don't think it's impossible to look at how this draft could break out and to say that at 12 they could be looking at styles and downs.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
In the era of two deep defenses influenced by Vic Fangio and Mike McDonald, I'm moving away from the terms post safeties and strong safeties and categorizing safeties as deep safeties, big nickels, and do-it-all safeties who can do both and more.
Ted Wynn6:44
Viral: 90.0
I'm a fan of his brains. I'm not looking at him going, oh my God, that's a heat-seeking missile.
Shan5:10
Viral: 85.0
I don't think it's impossible to look at how this draft could break out and to say that at 12 they could be looking at styles and downs.
Shan15:21
Viral: 80.0
Speakers

Hosts

ShanRJ
Topics Discussed
caleb downs draft profile95%nickel position in the nfl95%hybrid defensive players90%cowboys defensive needs88%draft strategy and trading up85%player versatility in the nfl82%safety position evolution80%modern defensive schemes75%
People & Brands

caleb downs

person

15xPositive

dallas cowboys

organization

12xPositive

sonny styles

person

8xPositive

ted wynn

person

6xPositive

keontae scott

person

5xPositive

a.j. halsey

person

5xPositive

rams

organization

5xNeutral

kyle lewis

person

4xPositive

the athletic

organization

4xNeutral

jalen kilgore

person

4xPositive

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