#568: Dash To The Draft 2026 (AFC West Draft Preview with Carl Dumler)

·39 min·3 clips

With the NFL Draft two and a half weeks away, Carl Dumler joins to dissect the draft needs of the entire AFC West.

The episode begins with host David Cromwell setting the stage for the upcoming NFL Draft, just two and a half weeks away. He introduces guest Carl Dumler from Mile High Huddle to analyze the draft needs of the AFC West teams. The discussion starts with the Las Vegas Raiders, who are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick. Dumler emphasizes the importance of building a strong offensive line to protect Mendoza, citing examples like Sam Darnold's struggles with the Jets. They debate whether the Raiders should prioritize protection or playmakers in the second round. Next, the focus shifts to the Kansas City Chiefs, who are in a transition period after a down season but have four top 100 picks. Dumler suggests targets like LSU cornerback Delane and Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, while Cromwell notes the Chiefs' confidence in developing mid-round defensive backs. The Los Angeles Chargers are then discussed, with their limited draft picks and strategy similar to the Ravens. Dumler explains why trades will be difficult this year due to teams' reluctance to part with 2027 picks. The Denver Broncos' approach is analyzed, focusing on addressing future holes rather than immediate needs. The episode concludes with a mock draft segment where the hosts simulate picks for each team. For the Raiders, they select Mendoza, tackle Max Ahana Chore, and wide receiver Elijah Surratt. The Chiefs get edge rusher Ruben Bain Jr., wide receiver Casey Conception, defensive tackle Lee Hunter, and cornerback Chandler Rivers. The Chargers pick edge rusher Keldrick Falk, defensive back Traded Stukes, and guard Jalen Farmer. The Broncos, with fewer picks, select linebacker Jake Golday, defensive tackle Caleb Proctor, and safety Bud Clark. The episode wraps with promotional details and a preview of the next episode on the NFC East.

As heard by us

AFC West draft strategy sharpens around trade value, positional depth, and the cost of 2027 picks.

AFC West draft talk finds its bite in the point where the board starts limiting the options. Raiders, Chiefs, Chargers, and Broncos needs are filtered through the trade-back question, with roughly 15 to 16 clear first-round talents up top and a much thicker group of about 40…

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Why you'd press play

You want AFC West draft math with edge-versus-guard tension and a trade market that may barely move.

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