Caleb Downs
Caleb Downs is an American college football safety for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He previously played for the Alabama Crimson Tide, where he was named the 2023 SEC Freshman of the Year.
Early life
Downs was born in Hoschton, Georgia. He attended Mill Creek High School in his home town of Hoschton, where he was a standout Football, Basketball and Baseball athlete. Downs was the 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
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" 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.