3 and Out with John Middlekauff Cowboys Draft Room REVEALED, Aaron Rodgers Wants a RAISE + Rookie Mini Camp Takeaways + NFL Offseason Mailbag
May 5, 2026
Inside access to how Dallas runs its draft room and what that reveals about decision making. A deep dive into Aaron Rodgers’ contract drama and possible landing spots. Why Anthony Richardson currently lacks trade appeal. Rookie minicamp chaos and what under-center snaps mean for Fernando Mendoza. Patrick Mahomes’ cautious rehab and broader NFL roster, gambling, and finance storylines.
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Combine Dinner Sparked Cardinals Rodgers Link
- Middlekauff recounts meeting Nate Hackett and James Palmer at the combine dinner and connecting Hackett to Cardinals staff.
- He uses that dinner memory to explain why Arizona surfaced as a plausible Rodgers landing spot.
Anthony Richardson Has No Clear Trade Market Yet
- Anthony Richardson currently has little trade market because teams addressed quarterback depth and perception of his development by signing alternatives.
- Middlekauff says Richardson needed to 'rehab his brand' and show team-player behavior after asking for a trade at the combine.
Ease Rookies At Mini Camp To Prevent Injuries
- Avoid overworking rookies at minicamp since most arrive out of shape and injuries happen when routines are disrupted.
- Middlekauff says teams should ease workload because draft-period travel and visits leave players unprepared for intense early practices.