Caleb Downs Projected To Go Top-10 Despite Injury Concerns

Despite being flagged for several medical concerns, Caleb Downs, a safety from Ohio State, is still garnering interest from several NFL teams.

Downs was flagged for a partially torn meniscus and a potentially degenerative ACL. However, NFL scouts reportedly are not concerned about Downs’ health. The ACL problems have not been confirmed, and the Downs family claims his ACL is fine. 

There are several teams looking to draft a safety in the 2026 NFL Draft. Downs is rumored to possibly be drafted as high as the No. 2 overall pick by the New York Jets. The Jets have lots of needs and could go in another direction, like drafting a linebacker, wide receiver or edge rusher.

The Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns and Washington Commanders have also shown interest in drafting Downs. However, just like the Jets, all these teams have several roster issues they’re looking to fix. 

The Kansas City Chiefs’ pick, the No. 9 pick, could be the most realistic early first-round pick that Downs could be drafted with. After trading Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams, they may be looking to improve the secondary. However, the Chiefs may prioritize improving their No. 21 offense from last season. 

The Cincinnati Bengals could end up being the best fit for Downs. The Bengals have been looking to improve their defense, particularly their secondary, for years. Geno Stone, one of their current safeties, had his contract renegotiated last season. He will be a free agent this offseason.  

Regardless of who drafts him, Downs is widely considered one of the best players in this draft class. He has a high football IQ, elite tackling skills and can work in a variety of different coverages. 

The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft will be on April 23 in Pittsburgh. The draft lasts for three days.