It was no surprise to see the Washington Commanders send an extremely strong contingent to Ohio State's pro day. Everyone from general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn to the two new coordinators was in attendance, running the rule over potential options at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Four prospects — five, if the Commanders end up trading back — from the Buckeyes have reportedly caught Washington's eye. This was their chance to further enhance perceptions around the NFL in familiar surroundings, and some highly influential figures were on hand to see them showcase what they could bring to the table.
Most of them did that at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. Caleb Downs did not, so all eyes were on the standout safety as he looked to cement his status as a top 10 selection.
Caleb Downs gave the Commanders plenty to think about at Ohio State's pro day
To say he delivered would be an understatement.
Downs stamped the exclamation point on everything he put on tape in college. The fluid movements, quick changes in direction, and explosiveness were as advertised. It was nothing the Commanders probably didn't already know, but it was nice to see nonetheless.
More from Downs https://t.co/cyPoBXbZvI pic.twitter.com/lGRatodA5L
— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) March 25, 2026
Box safeties don't move with this ease. Downs' versatility is his biggest asset. His instinctiveness and anticipation are off the charts. He's the perfect blend of size, physicality, and elite-level technique, making him a legitimate difference-maker in Daronte Jones' projected defensive system.
Positional value may hurt where Downs is taken. However, one could make a strong case for the defensive back being the best overall prospect in this class, and the Commanders are in no position to be turning their nose up at blue-chip talent in a draft with very few sure things.
Arvell Reese will be long gone by the time Washington goes on the clock. Linebacker Sonny Styles and wide receiver Carnell Tate could also be taken beforehand. Defensive lineman Kayden McDonald is also reportedly liked by the Commanders, but only if it's part of a move back.
Nothing could be said with any confidence, but Downs is widely expected to be there at No. 7. Peters always wants to take the best prospects available. Josh Conerly Jr. wasn't on the radar of many before the 2025 draft, but when he was highest on the board at No. 29, the Commanders didn't hesitate.
There won't be many higher than Downs on draft boards around the league. In many cases, he'll be right at the top. This outstanding pro day showcase didn't change that fact, leaving Peters with a monumental decision to make.