The Dallas Cowboys may have just pulled off the steal of the 2026 NFL Draft. After an unforeseen series of selections in the top ten, Jerry Jones pulled the strings necessary to move up one spot and take Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.
If his collegiate career is any indication, Downs is set to be a star at the next level. Ryan Stano of Scarlet and Game laid out just how impactful Downs was for the Buckeyes.
"There's no question that Caleb Downs was the best player on Ohio State's defense in each of the last two seasons. His intelligence was on full display in each of the last two years with the Buckeyes. Ohio State doesn't win the 2024 national championship without Downs, as he had several touchdown-saving tackles against Texas in the Cotton Bowl. Rumors of his knee having issues are unfounded, and he might end up being the steal of the first round. While safety isn't a premium position, Downs has the potential to be a Hall of Fame player at the next level."
Ohio State expert will have Cowboys fans celebrating with Caleb Downs breakdown
The safety's impact in the Buckeyes' 2024 championship run is key here. He was instrumental in Ohio State's title run, acting as a leader on the defense. For a Cowboys unit in need of direction, he couldn't be a better fit.
He racked up over 250 tackles in his collegiate career and dominated in both the Big Ten and the SEC.
As Stano stated, Downs is one of the most intelligent players in this class. He's underrated as an athlete, but his true impact comes from his anticipation. Whether he's playing as a free safety, in the box, or as a nickel defender, the former Buckeye can be a game-breaking presence.
He'll step in as an immediate starter for Dallas in the secondary. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker will be able to use him in creative ways to patch what is still a porous unit.
Downs may not fit the Cowboys' typical strategy of focusing on the trenches in the first round, but the value at No. 11 was simply too good for Jones to pass up on. When a prospect as talented and versatile as Downs is on the board, positional value and team needs go out the window. The Ohio State safety was easily the best player on the board. If his pro career mirrors what he did in college, Cowboys fans are in for a treat.
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