The Dallas Cowboys are done with their OTAs and will now shift their focus to minicamps from June 16-18. As preparations for the 2026 season continue, first-round pick Caleb Downs is trying to understand the playbook. 

Speaking to reporters after the OTAs, Downs admitted that competing against the Cowboys' offensive talent has been one of the benefits of his first NFL offseason.

"It's a tremendous blessing for me just to be able to speed up my growth," Downs said. "Playing against high-level talent, different types of receivers in terms of KaVontae Turpin, CeeDee, and then the other guys like Ryan Flournoy and Traeshon Holden...really good talent pool to be able to compete against during practice."

Downs was selected with the 11th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. He arrived in Dallas after establishing himself as one of college football's top defensive prospects. Now, the rookie safety is attending every practice rep as an opportunity to focus on his growth.

The praise carries weight considering the variety of players Downs sees every day. CeeDee Lamb remains the pillar of Dallas' passing attack after a productive last season.

KaVontae Turpin continues to be one of the league's most dangerous return specialists and deep threats. Then the young wide receivers, Ryan Flournoy and Traeshon Holden, are also competing for larger offensive roles heading into training camp.

Downs also pointed to tight end Jake Ferguson as another challenge. Ferguson has developed as Dak Prescott's most reliable target and remains an important part of the Cowboys' offense.

Facing that level of competition and adjusting to that speed can be crucial for Downs once the regular season begins. 

Downs and Dak Already Building Chemistry Off the Field

Downs continues to adapt the defense playbook. He has already spent some time with veteran quarterback Dak Prescott away from football. The two recently played a round of golf together, and Downs had no doubts about the outcome.

"I'm gonna beat him, I don't care what happens," Downs said with a laugh to a friend before the match. "It was a good game."

Prescott, entering his 11th season as the Cowboys' franchise quarterback, remains one of the team's most important leaders. 

Last season, the veteran threw for over 4,000 yards and threw for 30 touchdowns against only 10 interceptions.

As Downs continues adjusting to the NFL, both his on-field battles and off-field interactions are helping him settle into life with the Cowboys ahead of training camp.

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore