Jerry Jones has tons of routes to bolster one of the worst defenses in the history of the Dallas Cowboys.
A once-in-a-generation safety once felt like a real possibility, but after a month of radio silence in mock drafts, it’s becoming clear Ohio State star Caleb Downs won’t land with the Cowboys. With the additions of Jalen Thompson and P.J. Locke, taking Downs at No. 12 may not even make sense anymore.
Downs once felt like a dream scenario at No. 12, but that’s quickly fading with most mock drafts pushing him into the top 10, and even the top five. Missing out wouldn’t be catastrophic, but all signs point to the former Buckeye being gone long before the Cowboys pick.
The Dallas Cowboys' hopes of drafting Caleb Downs may be fading
Giants head coach John Harbaugh has already expressed interest in drafting Downs. Harbaugh has a history of coaching Hall of Fame safeties like Brian Dawkins and Ed Reed. The former Buckeye may go in the top five, thanks to his range, speed, and athleticism.
The Giants are a threat to take Downs, but they could also opt for wide receiver Carnell Tate to pair with Malik Nabers and Jaxson Dart. Even if Downs falls out of the top five, No. 10 feels like his floor. He’s the kind of once-in-a-generation talent the Cowboys desperately need, but the odds of him reaching No. 12 are shrinking fast.
One route Dallas could take is LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane, who would form a strong pairing with DaRon Bland. However, the team’s glaring need for a pass rusher is hard to ignore. If they go that route, Rueben Bain Jr. or David Bailey would be logical choices at No. 12 if they're available.
Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman is another name to watch for Dallas. While Jalen Thompson and P.J. Locke give the position a new look, the Cowboys may still explore adding more talent on the back end. Either way, Caleb Downs appears out of reach, with most analysts projecting him firmly inside the top 10.
It wouldn’t be the end of the world if the Cowboys miss out on Downs, but he once felt like a dream pick, and that scenario is seemingly fading quickly.