You never want to set too high of expectations for a rookie, but Caleb Downs might be the rare exception. In his first-ever training camp, the Dallas Cowboys' first-round pick wasted no time becoming a thorn in the side of one of the NFL's premier offenses. That includes CeeDee Lamb.
The Cowboys have asked Downs to cover Lamb from the slot from Day 1. Downs has been up to the challenge, winning his share of battles and making Lamb work for every reception.
Any win against Lamb should be celebrated, but Sunday's practice delivered Downs' signature moment when he won a 1-on-1 rep against No. 88 in the end zone (h/t Nick Harris, Star-Telegram). Dak Prescott delivered a good ball, but Downs' coverage was even better. He got his hands up just as Lamb went to make a play on the ball, taking away the Pro Bowler's catch radius and leaving him virtually no chance to make the grab.
One Washington Commanders fan account reacted on X, saying, "Man, this Sonny [Styles] sh-- better work."
Caleb Downs' 1-on-1 rep against CeeDee Lamb adds to growing hype surrounding Cowboys' rookie
If you need us, we'll be watching that highlight on loop for the next 24 hours. You absolutely love to see rival fans panicking that the Cowboys may have added a superstar to their defense.
This was a picture-perfect rep from Downs. If you watch closely, you'll see that Downs fought off a (potentially illegal) pick from George Pickens. It broke his stride, forcing him to rely on his instincts. He recovered nicely and, without being in an ideal position, had to read Lamb's body language more than he normally would.
Despite being a half-step behind Lamb, Downs did exactly what you're supposed to: React when the receiver does.
Was the ball slightly underthrown by Prescott? Perhaps, but Downs did incredibly well not to interfere with Lamb despite never turning his head. That's normally a flag, but Downs timed his hands perfectly and played through Lamb's hands rather than going through him. A lot of cornerbacks would have panicked after getting picked at the line of scrimmage and committed pass interference in desperation while trying to recover.
Downs also got the better of Lamb in Saturday's practice. Once again, Lamb had a step on the rookie and looked to secure a touchdown. However, Downs didn't give up on the play and jarred the ball loose before Lamb had possession (h/t Nick Harris, Star Telegram).
These are all fantastic signs. Downs won't line up across from many receivers this season who are better than Lamb. Like any rookie, he's not going to win every rep, but what he's shown against Lamb thus far suggests he may be even better in coverage than initially perceived.
All of a sudden, Malik Nabers' draft night reaction makes so much sense.
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