Summary of "The Top-10 Domino Effect: How Jalen Walker and a Run on Edge Rushers Could Shake Up the First Round"
The McShay Show Episode released on April 22, 2025, features NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay and co-host Mensch delving deep into the potential shifts and strategies influencing the first round of the upcoming NFL Draft. The episode, titled "The Top-10 Domino Effect: How Jalen Walker and a Run on Edge Rushers Could Shake Up the First Round," explores how standout edge rushers like Jalen Walker are altering the draft landscape and impacting team selections.
Introduction: Setting the Stage [00:00 – 06:20]
Todd McShay kicks off the episode by highlighting the dynamic nature of the current draft season. He emphasizes the importance of understanding team needs and the "domino effect" that top-tier edge rushers are having on the first-round selections. The hosts express excitement about the impending draft and set the tone for an in-depth analysis of key prospects and team strategies.
The Emergence of Jalen Walker [06:20 – 19:35]
Jalen Walker's Dominance: McShay and Mensch discuss Jalen Walker's exceptional performance and how his prowess as an edge rusher is making him a must-take prospect. Todd states, “At what point is Jalen Walker just too good? No matter what your needs are, you just have to take him” [13:15]. Mensch echoes this sentiment, questioning when Walker's value becomes irresistible for teams, potentially reshaping the top picks.
Impact on Draft Order: The hosts analyze how Walker’s standing could prompt teams to prioritize edge rushers over other positions, leading to a cascade of selections influenced by his availability. Todd notes, “These elite players are starting to fall because you got Warren, Gentry, Loveland... essentially shifting the focus” [14:23].
Run on Edge Rushers: Shifting Priorities [19:35 – 35:21]
Team Needs and Strategies: McShay delves into how teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears are adjusting their draft boards to accommodate the rising trend of selecting edge rushers. For instance, he mentions, “With Coach Liam Cohen in Jacksonville, they need a weapon to complement Trevor Lawrence” [09:03], suggesting that drafting a top edge rusher becomes a strategic necessity.
Potential Picks and Scenarios: The discussion includes potential scenarios for various teams, highlighting how selecting one elite edge rusher affects subsequent picks. Todd elaborates, “If Jalen Walker goes to the Raiders at six, the Jets might look to Membu or someone else” [19:18].
Depth of the Edge Rusher Class: Mensch comments on the depth and quality of the current edge rusher class, stating, “These guys are too damn good to let go” [14:03], indicating that teams have to act swiftly to secure top talent before they fall to later rounds.
Team-Specific Analyses [35:21 – 54:22]
Chicago Bears: The Bears are a focal point, with Todd predicting Ashton Gentry as a potential pick at ten, bolstering their defensive line. “Ashton Gentry being a Chicago Bear at ten would bolster their defense significantly” [26:16].
Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints: McShay discusses Carolina’s likely focus on edge rushers like Mikel Williams, while the Saints may prioritize quarterback Jackson Dart or edge positions, anticipating a game of strategy and timing during their selections [20:20].
Cincinnati and Atlanta: The conversation addresses Cincinnati's potential picks between Shamar Stewart and Mike Green, and Atlanta's interest in James Pierce and other edge talents, reflecting the widespread demand for defensive linemen [30:33].
San Francisco and Arizona: San Francisco's needs are analyzed with a focus on edge rushers, while Arizona looks to address cornerback needs despite the run on edge rushers, indicating the balancing act teams must perform [30:49].
Mensch's Insights and Predictions [54:22 – 61:42]
Undervalued Offense and Running Backs: Mensch provides valuable insights into the running back class, predicting a significant run in the second and third rounds similar to the 2017 draft. He emphasizes the depth and versatility of the current running back pool, stating, “23 running backs heard their name called on Saturday” [51:23].
Key Running Backs to Watch: He highlights prospects like Travion Henderson and Omarion Hampton as potential first-round picks, despite their cartridges being pushed to later rounds due to the overwhelming depth [44:35].
Offensive Line and Receivers: Mensch discusses Jared Wilson as an underrated center who could be a standout pick in the second round, advocating for teams to recognize his potential early on [59:53]. He also points out receivers like Ty Felton and Pat Bryant who may be undervalued based on their combine performances but possess significant NFL potential [56:17].
Emerging Talents: The hosts touch upon emerging talents like Jalen Noel and Trey Harris, who could become pivotal players in the second and third rounds, further illustrating the depth of the draft pool [57:01].
Notable Quotes
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Todd McShay [13:15]: “At what point is Jalen Walker just too good? No matter what your needs are, you just have to take him.”
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Mensch [14:03]: “Everyone wants Jalen Walker. So is that six? Is that seven? Where's Jalen Walker?”
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Todd McShay [19:18]: “If Jalen Walker goes to the Raiders at six, the Jets might look to Membu or someone else.”
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Mensch [51:23]: “23 running backs heard their name called on Saturday. Get ready for that.”
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Mensch [59:53]: “Jared Wilson is by far the best center in this class, right? Yes, without question.”
Conclusion: Navigating the Draft Dynamics [61:42 – End]
As the episode wraps up, Todd and Mensch reiterate the importance of staying informed and adaptable during the draft process. They encourage listeners to engage with upcoming shows, including mock drafts and live streams, to navigate the complexities of the draft effectively. The hosts emphasize that while edge rushers like Jalen Walker are pivotal, the breadth of talent across positions ensures a competitive and unpredictable first round.
Final Takeaway
This episode of The McShay Show provides a comprehensive analysis of how the surge in elite edge rushers like Jalen Walker is reshaping the first-round dynamics of the NFL Draft. Todd McShay and Mensch offer nuanced insights into team strategies, player valuations, and the overall depth of the draft pool, making it an invaluable resource for fans and analysts alike looking to understand the evolving landscape of NFL talent acquisition.