Caleb Downs Considers Ohio State Return Before Michigan Showdown
Ohio State’s Caleb Downs is considering his future as the Buckeyes prepare to face the Michigan Wolverines. The rivalry match, known as “The Game,” is crucial for Ohio State, which has struggled against Michigan since its last win in 2019. Currently, head coach Ryan Day holds a 1-4 record in this significant matchup. Ohio State enters the game undefeated, while Michigan boasts a 9-2 record.
Caleb Downs: Rising Star and Future Prospects
Caleb Downs, a junior safety for Ohio State, has piqued NFL interest as he looks ahead to a promising career. He enrolled in college in 2023, making him eligible for the NFL Draft after the 2025 college football season. Considered the top safety prospect for the 2026 draft, Downs is projected by many analysts to be a top-10 pick.
Hints at Entering the NFL Draft
Recently, Downs hinted at potentially bypassing his final college eligibility. On the “Downs 2 Business” podcast he shares with his brother Josh, Caleb acknowledged that this game against Michigan could be his last opportunity in the rivalry. With a national title already secured, it seems he is ready to make the leap to professional football.
Current Season Performance
As a key player for Ohio State, Downs has made significant contributions on defense. This season, he has recorded:
- 49 tackles overall
- 32 solo tackles
- 2 interceptions
Despite standing at 6-foot-0 and weighing 205 pounds, Downs plays with remarkable strength and skill, showcasing his capabilities in both run defense and pass coverage.
Draft Projections
Caleb Downs is highly regarded in mock draft analyses. PFSN’s Jacob Infante projects him as a potential pick for the Cincinnati Bengals. Infante notes that the Bengals could benefit from enhancing their defense, especially following injuries that have affected their roster.
ESPN’s Jordan Reid ranks Downs as the No. 2 prospect on his latest list, emphasizing his consistency as a crucial asset. Aside from the Bengals, other teams such as the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, and Dallas Cowboys could also significantly benefit from drafting Downs.
Conclusion
As the Buckeyes prepare to confront the Wolverines, Caleb Downs’ future remains a topic of discussion among fans and analysts. With an outstanding season under his belt, he is on the verge of an exciting transition into professional football, capitalizing on his skills and achievements at Ohio State.
