Story perspectives

Ohio State's Caleb Downs Declares for 2026 NFL Draft

1/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Caleb Downs, Ohio State safety, declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on social media and his podcast.
The former five-star recruit from Alabama transferred to Ohio State after Nick Saban's retirement.
He helped the Buckeyes win the national championship in 2024 and earned the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back.
Downs finished his college career with 164 tackles, six interceptions, and numerous All-American honors, and he is projected to be a top-10 pick.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1986, the Jim Thorpe Award honors the top defensive back in college football, reflecting the growing recognition of defensive talent. Tedy Bruschi was the first recipient, and in 2024, Caleb Downs from Ohio State won the award after recording 164 tackles and six interceptions. This evolution underscores the critical role of defense in shaping football's competitive landscape.

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Story summary

Caleb Downs, Ohio State safety, declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on social media and his podcast.
The former five-star recruit from Alabama transferred to Ohio State after Nick Saban's retirement.
He helped the Buckeyes win the national championship in 2024 and earned the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back.
Downs finished his college career with 164 tackles, six interceptions, and numerous All-American honors, and he is projected to be a top-10 pick.

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