Caleb Downs: Saints' Top Draft Pick for Defense?

0:00It's April 9th. This is NFL News Today, powered by AI, your gridiron update. I'm Cory with the story. Caleb Downs, the Ohio State Safety, keeps showing up in mock dress for the New Orleans Saints, especially now that they're projected at number 8. In the 2026 NFL Draft, this guy has been a top 10 favorite for over a year, even when the Saints were eyed for a top 3 pick. With a gap in Brandon Staley's secondary, fans wonder if Downs is the fix. Tyrann Matthew, jumped in with high praise on a recent podcast, saying Downs is like a top offensive tackle, reliable for 10-year straight. Not the flashiest, but his leadership build and playmaking scream long-term star. Matthew even called him the best player in the whole draft. Downs stats are steady, not explosive. Six interceptions, three forced fumbles, and 16 passes defense over 44 starts. Dig deeper though, he didn't allow a single touchdown in a 74 coverage snaps at Ohio

1:00State. As a freshman in Alabama, he led in tackles and earned captain status on a stack team. His versatility fits Staley's system perfectly, lining up everywhere from the box to the slot. Much like Derwin James under Staley, at 5 feet 11 and a half, 206 pounds, Downs brings physicality to nickel packages where the Saints lean heavy last year. He could step right in, replacing vibes like the Mario Davis with his communication. Saints Brass will grab the best talent available, whether it's Downs, his Buckeye teammate Carnell Tate, or Miami's Rubin Bane Jr. Matthews pitch spotlights, why the safety could elevate the defense big time.