Caleb Downs says he believes he's best defender in NFL draft - ESPN

ESPN

by Ben Baby

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Caleb Downs, a standout safety from Ohio State, has made it clear that he considers himself the best defender available in the NFL draft class. Despite questions about whether safeties are worth high draft picks, Downs argues that being the most impactful defender on the field should outweigh positional value. Drawing confidence from his decorated college career—including being named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and winning the Thorpe Award—Downs believes his ability to dominate games makes him a top-tier prospect. Draft experts project Downs as a potential top-five pick in April, which would make him the first safety selected that high since Eric Berry in 2010. His journey from Alabama to Ohio State has been marked by success, including helping the Buckeyes win the College Football Playoff championship in 2024. Downs’ versatility is another key selling point; he can play multiple positions, ranging from deep safety to slot cornerback, which aligns with the modern NFL’s demand for flexible defensive backs. Downs’ mindset is centered around his game IQ and instincts, which he credits as his greatest assets. His ability to process plays quickly and make split-second decisions sets him apart. With a strong belief in his own abilities and a focus on affecting the game in multiple ways, Downs sees himself not just as a top defender but as someone who can immediately impact an NFL team’s success. The significance of Downs’ claim lies in challenging the traditional draft strategy that often prioritizes positional value over overall impact. If selected high, he would solidify the idea that elite defenders, regardless of position, should be valued for their ability to change games rather than just their position on the field. For fans and analysts following the draft, his confidence and skill set make him a compelling player to watch, as his career trajectory could redefine how teams evaluate defensive backs in future drafts.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/26/2026