It isn't exactly a secret that the Dallas Cowboys found a player who's going to change the complexion of their defense in Caleb Downs. We felt lucky enough to see him fall right into the Cowboys' lap with the 11th pick in April's draft, but we've also seen him have a strong start to his first NFL training camp.
Not only has he made the instant impact on this defense we were expecting, but Downs is also starting to catch the attention of some of his teammates. DallasCowboys.com's Patrik Walker got to speak with Malik Hooker about the exciting rookie, and Hooker revealed what all of us were thinking as well.
"Every play he lines up, he feels like he's gonna win that rep [against anybody], and that's the type of mentality we want on this defense; and especially coming from a guy that we're expecting to play a lot," Hooker said. "And not only play a lot, but to be a difference maker in our defense. Man, to see what he brings to the stable this year too, 'cause, right now, he's everything they hyped him up to be — a special player."
From one former Ohio State safety to another, Hooker referred to the 21-year-old as "everything they hyped him up to be" and "special", and that's some high praise for a guy who has yet to play a down in the NFL. But this is exactly what we're hoping for from a player whom Dallas has such big plans for.
Caleb Downs has more to offer this Cowboys defense than just talent
You can refer to the talent all you want. Caleb Downs' football IQ is off the charts. He has elite processing, the versatility to make plays all over the football field, and is a strong run defender. No wonder defenisve coordinator Christian Parker wants to play him in the nickel to make the most of his impact.
However, talent is just the start. Having the mentality to be great is the other part of it, and Malik Hooker thinks Downs has that. Being at training camp where you'll face CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens on a consistent basis can be daunting, especially as a rookie, but he can face off with the best of them. He's not scared of a little resistance, and that'll take him a long way.
Hooker's praise didn't end there, though. He referred to Downs as a "difference-maker", which is a label he certainly deserves. It's going to be fun to see how he continues to develop as he grows more comfortable in the NFL, and it seems like Cowboys fans aren't the only ones intrigued in that sense.
"So happy to be here with him. Can't wait to see not only what this year brings for him, but the rest of his career."
Like Malik Hooker mentioned, the Cowboys are expecting Caleb Downs to play a key role this season, and it's nice to see him living up to the expectations.
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