After the 2026 NFL Draft's conclusion, the Dallas Cowboys are considered to be the winners of this year's draft, selecting safety Caleb Downs with their 11th overall pick.

The Cowboys traded a spot up with the Miami Dolphins in exchange for 12th, 177th and 180th overall picks to secure the star safety. During his post-draft conference with the Cowboys media, Downs discussed his 'vision' with the Cowboys' defense in the future.

"I'm a defensive player. Being able to play at the line of scrimmage, the second level, the third level... Being able to do a lot of different things”, Downs said. “At the end of the day, you want playmakers. That's what I am"

Caleb Downs was projected as a ‘dream target’ for the Cowboys, as he brings in versatility and potential of filling in three different positions - nickel, safety, or linebacker on demand.

During his three-year collegiate career, he recorded 257 tackles (164 solo), 12 passes defended and six interceptions with 1.5 sacks over 44 appearances.

According to Cowboys' official website, the organization views Downs as the 'quarterback of the defense.' Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones also states Downs was a 'prize' in the draft and they did not want to 'lose' him.

Despite the draft, the Cowboys did not have an alarming need at the safety position. With Malik Hooker on the last year of his contract, Downs could be a game-changer that the team is looking for. 

Downs Projected as Instant Difference-Maker 

With the versatility to line up across the secondary defense, Downs fits naturally into Defensive Coordinator Christian Parker’s system - immediately moving into the starting role, pairing with Jalen Thompson.

During his introductory conference in Dallas, Downs was quite excited to meet the DC and was all about ‘the ball’.

"I asked him first thing - 'Where's the playbook at? When can I get it?” Downs said. "I’m excited to be a Cowboy and play football. I had a great feeling on our 30-visit."

Downs recorded 68 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions in the 2025 season. He received several accolades including the Jim Thorpe Award and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.

Downs was considered to be the best safety prospect in this year's draft class. He was also ranked as one of the top players in the 2023 college football recruiting class.

As soon as Caleb Downs arrived at the Dallas Cowboys facility, his focus was on the team's development.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Rishab Nandi