Caleb Downs

Downs was born on December 10, 2004. He attended Mill Creek High School in his home town of Hoschton, Georgia, where he was a standout Football, Basketball and Baseball athlete. Downs was named the All-American Bowl Player of the Year as a senior. He was ranked as one of the top players in the 2023 college football recruiting class and considered the nation's No. 1 safety prospect. He was ranked No. 9 nationally by Rivals.com, No. 11 by ESPN and No. 8 by 247Sports. Downs was named the 2023 USA Today Defensive Football Player of the Year. == College career ==

following their 2025 national championship win Downs committed to Alabama on July 27, 2022. He chose Alabama over Clemson, Georgia, Notre Dame and Ohio State. In his debut, he led the team in tackles with eight. At the conclusion of his freshman season Downs was named the SEC Freshman of the Year. Following the retirement of Nick Saban, he transferred to Ohio State. In Ohio State's 38–15 win over No. 5 Indiana, Downs returned a punt 79 yards for a touchdown. At the conclusion of the 2024 season Downs was named a unanimous All-American. On January 7, 2026, he declared for the 2026 NFL draft. Off the field, Downs has been noted as one of the most prominent athletes in the "Name, Image, and Likeness" (NIL) era. He has secured several major endorsement deals, including a partnership with activewear brand Rhoback and an exclusive deal with trading card company Panini America. ==Professional career==

Downs was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round, with the 11th overall pick, of the 2026 NFL draft. ==Personal life==

Downs' father, Gary, played college football for NC State and for seven years in the National Football League. Gary is now a representative for Fellowship of Christian Athletes and coaches. His uncle, Dré Bly, played for the North Carolina Tar Heels and also played 11 years in the National Football League (NFL). Caleb's brother Josh also played with the Tar Heels, and is now with the Indianapolis Colts of the NFL. == References ==