Caleb Downs: Zero Chance for Cowboys at 12?

0:00On April 15, Dallas Cowboys fans eyeing the 2026 NFL Draft got some rough news on their top target, Ohio State Safety Caleb Downs. The team holds picks at number 12 and number 20, perfect for grabbing defensive stars. But ESPN insider Peter Shreger says there's zero chance downslides to 12, he's expected to go earlier. Shreger shared this during a spot on the Pat McAfee show, hearing from multiple teams that Downs is locked in high. Cowboys could pack his those picks to trade up a few spots if they really want him, keeping their options open in a deep first round. Fans are bummed since Downs tops many wishless for instant defense help, but the buzz now includes trading aggressively. Some mocks even linked Dallas to his Ohio State teammate, linebacker Sonny Stiles, maybe around number 4 if they go all in. Downs brings serious credentials, started at Alabama under Nick Saven, then won a national title at Ohio State. He snagged big 10 defensive player of the year, two time all American honors, with 257 tackles, six picks, and even punt return.

1:06Scores over three years. Cowboys brass knows a player like Downs could reshape the secondary for years, so watch for moves before draft nice shakes everything up.