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Cowboys Name Caleb Downs Starting Nickel Safety

5/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Dallas Cowboys opened rookie minicamp on May 1, 2026, with safety Caleb Downs wearing No. 18.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced Downs will start the season as the nickel safety.
Defensive coordinator Christian Parker praised Downs’ instincts and football intellect linking his brain to his feet.
Downs previously wore No. 2 at Alabama and Ohio State, a number now held by cornerback Cobie Durant.

History

Historical Context

In 1992 the Dallas Cowboys drafted safety Darren Woodson in the second round, and he quickly became a starter, helping the team win three straight Super Bowls (1992-1994) and record 31 career interceptions. The franchise’s habit of elevating young defensive backs continues in 2026, when coach Brian Schottenheimer promoted rookie Caleb Downs to nickel safety during the Cowboys’ rookie minicamp.

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Story summary

The Dallas Cowboys opened rookie minicamp on May 1, 2026, with safety Caleb Downs wearing No. 18.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced Downs will start the season as the nickel safety.
Defensive coordinator Christian Parker praised Downs’ instincts and football intellect linking his brain to his feet.
Downs previously wore No. 2 at Alabama and Ohio State, a number now held by cornerback Cobie Durant.

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