5 things to know about Caleb Downs - Safety from Ohio State

Caleb Downs enters tonight’s defensive back workouts at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine as one of the most closely watched defensive prospects in Indianapolis. The Ohio State safety already carries first‑round buzz and how he tests, talks and moves this week could solidify where he’s taken in April’s draft.

Downs has the production, accolades and confidence that evaluators crave. Now the question is how his Combine performance reinforces or reshapes his projected draft range.

5 things to know about Caleb Downs

1. He’s a top draft prospect deadlining defensive back day

Downs is one of the elite names in the DB group. Scouts are watching his speed, agility and instincts in drills tonight because a strong showing could cement his status as a top‑10 pick. Many mock drafts already have him projected comfortably in the first round, and some boards even slot him inside the top 10 based on his tape and projected athletic profile.

2. One of the most decorated defenders in college football

Downs finished his college career as a two‑time unanimous All‑American, the 2025 Jim Thorpe Award winner (given to college football’s best defensive back), the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, and a leader on a Buckeyes defense that ranked among the nation’s best.

3. Elite production and versatility

Across three collegiate seasons (including time at Alabama before transferring to Ohio State), Downs posted 257 tackles, six interceptions, three forced fumbles, and multiple big plays in key moments while also contributing as a punt returner and aligning all over the defense. His film shows a player comfortable in the box, deep in coverage, and matching up with tight ends or slot receivers.

4. He believes he’s the top defender in the draft

At the Combine, Downs didn’t shy away from confidence, telling reporters he feels like the best defender in this year’s draft class and that his processing, instincts and play‑making differentiate him. That type of self‑belief is part of what evaluators call “competitive DNA.”

5. Could be one of the highest‑drafted safeties in NFL history

Only six defensive backs have been taken in the top five since 2000, and none since 2010. If Downs slips into that range, or even stays in the top 10, it would be a rare valuation for a safety, driven by his rare combination of production, versatility, leadership and athleticism.

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