Full Breakdown
Nick Saban's Insights on Top NFL Draft Prospects: Caleb Downs and Ty Simpson
4/23/2026, 4:13:16 AM
Caleb Downs: A Standout Safety
Caleb Downs, a safety who began his college career at Alabama in 2023, is generating significant buzz ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban expressed confidence in Downs' abilities during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, stating that Downs would have been the top safety in the 2024 draft had he been eligible. Saban emphasized that Downs has made more impactful plays than any other player in this year's draft class, highlighting his instincts and physicality on the field.
Saban described Downs as a "football junkie" capable of playing anywhere in the secondary, noting, "He can play in a deep part of the field, but when he's in a deep part of the field and he comes downhill, he's going to bust your ass." Despite the potential for Downs to be selected in the top 10, the safety position is often undervalued in the draft, which may affect his final placement. The financial implications for a top-10 pick include a four-year rookie contract valued at approximately $29.6 million.
Ty Simpson: Development and Potential
Ty Simpson, another former Alabama player, is also in the spotlight as the No. 2 quarterback prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. Saban shared insights on Simpson's readiness for the NFL, noting that Simpson's limited starting experience—only one season as Alabama's starter—could impact his draft position. Saban highlighted the importance of maturity and decision-making in Simpson's development, stating, "He needs to go someplace where he has a chance to develop, and not play right away."
Simpson's performance during his final season included 3,567 passing yards and 30 total touchdowns, but he also faced challenges due to injuries. Analysts project Simpson as a potential late first-round or early second-round pick, with interest from teams like the Arizona Cardinals and Pittsburgh Steelers. Simpson himself expressed a calm acceptance of the draft process, stating, "It's out of my control... I'm understanding that anything could happen."
Criticism of Prospects
While both Downs and Simpson have garnered praise, they are not without their critics. Downs' position may lead to uncertainty regarding his draft stock, while Simpson's lack of extensive playing time raises questions about his immediate readiness for the NFL. Additionally, Kadyn Proctor, an offensive tackle from Alabama, has faced scrutiny regarding his weight and pass protection skills, prompting Saban to defend him by acknowledging manageable concerns about his conditioning.
Conclusion
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the insights from Nick Saban on Caleb Downs and Ty Simpson provide a glimpse into the potential trajectories of these promising players. With Saban's endorsement, both prospects are positioned to make significant impacts in the league, though their paths may vary based on team needs and draft strategies.
