The Latest Top-12 Intel vs. What We Would Do in the First Round
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In this final pre-draft episode of The McShay Show, host Todd McShay breaks down the latest NFL draft intel from league sources, focusing on the top 12 picks and the strategic decisions teams are weighing. With just two days until the draft, McShay reveals that the New York Jets are expected to select David Bailey at #2, while Arizona is likely to take Arvel Reese at #3 despite owner interest in Jeremiah Love. The Giants, facing a tough decision at #5, are leaning toward Love due to his elite talent and the need for depth in the backfield, especially after past injury issues. Tennessee is reportedly targeting a pass rusher or Sonny Stiles at #4, and Cleveland is likely to trade down for an offensive tackle, possibly Spencer Fano. Washington at #7 is expected to prioritize defense, likely selecting Caleb Downs over Carnell Tate. New Orleans at #8 may go with Reuben Bain, while Kansas City at #9 could pick Bain or a wide receiver. Miami at #11 and Dallas at #12 are both expected to take top-tier defensive talent, with Mansour Delane likely to be the pick. The episode emphasizes that while leaks and rumors swirl, the most reliable intel comes from the combine and early draft conversations. McShay also promotes the show’s live Netflix coverage of the draft, highlighting its interactive format and exclusive content.
The Jets are expected to draft David Bailey at #2, with Arvel Reese likely going to Arizona at #3.
The Giants are leaning toward Jeremiah Love at #5 due to his elite talent and the need for a durable, dynamic backfield complement to Jackson Dart.
Tennessee may take Sonny Stiles at #4 to build around their Fred Warner-style off-ball linebacker.
Cleveland is expected to trade down for an offensive tackle, with Spencer Fano a top target.
Washington at #7 is likely to prioritize defense, potentially selecting Caleb Downs over Carnell Tate.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Draft Countdown Begins: Leaks, Lies, and Real Talk
McShay opens the episode with a candid discussion about the reliability of draft rumors, emphasizing that while leaks are common, the most valuable intel comes from direct conversations with NFL teams and scouts. He acknowledges being misled about the Jets' pick but stresses that the mock draft's purpose is to reflect real team thinking, not just predictions.
Jets & Cardinals: Bailey vs. Reese – The Top Two Picks
“I think when 10 years from now, Arvel Reese is going to be the better NFL football player, more dynamic, impactful defensive player in the NFL than David Bailey.”
Giants at #5: Love vs. the Board – A Strategic Dilemma
“I am absolutely, positively, 100% taking Jeremiah Love here at number five. And I'm going to make that the establishment.”
Tennessee, Cleveland, and Washington: The Defense vs. Offense Debate
“It's a mandate that we get that defense fixed, and we'll give you the resources. But if it's Caleb Downs, then it's got to be Caleb Downs.”
New Orleans, Kansas City, and Miami: The Final Tier of Picks
McShay breaks down the final picks from #8 to #11, where teams like New Orleans, Kansas City, and Miami must make tough calls. New Orleans may take Reuben Bain, Kansas City could go for an edge or receiver, and Miami is expected to take a top defensive player like Mansour Delane.
“I am absolutely, positively, 100% taking Jeremiah Love here at number five. And I'm going to make that the establishment.”
“I think when 10 years from now, Arvel Reese is going to be the better NFL football player, more dynamic, impactful defensive player in the NFL than David Bailey.”
“It's a mandate that we get that defense fixed, and we'll give you the resources. But if it's Caleb Downs, then it's got to be Caleb Downs.”
Hosts
Jeremiah Love
other
Todd McShay
person
Arvel Reese
other
Caleb Downs
other
Mench
person
David Bailey
other
Netflix
organization
New York Giants
other
Sonny Stiles
other
Carnell Tate
other
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