Caleb Downs has been strongly linked to the Washington Commanders throughout the pre-draft process. He's also one of the most polarizing prospects in this entire class.
This has nothing to do with his talent. Downs might be the most gifted player in this group overall. However, safeties tend not to go high because of their positional importance. This is a conundrum that teams, including the Commanders, need to figure out.
Unless the New York Giants spring a surprise, Downs could be available when the Commanders go on the clock at No. 7. Much will depend on who else is around, but the defensive back should be on the shortlist. And legendary former college coach Nick Saban just gave Washington fans another reason to believe in the prospect.
Nick Saban gives Caleb Downs a glowing reference as Commanders' draft decision looms
Saban coached Downs at Alabama, so he knows better than most. He was glowing in his praise, outlining precisely what the do-it-all weapon will bring to the pros, and bring well.
"Caleb Downs has made more plays in college than anyone in this draft. If he makes that many plays in the NFL, what's the capability gap? How much better can he get?
"When he played for us as a freshman, he would have been the first safety taken in the draft. The guy is so instinctive. He's got really good ability. He is a phenomenal person. He is a football junkie, and he is such a fast reactor. When he's in a deep part of the field and he comes downhil, he's going to bust your a--."
This is nothing general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn don't already know.
They've studied the film. Downs blew everyone away during the assessment interview phase. He's not lacking in confidence, stemming from elite-level athleticism, an exceptional football IQ, and the preparation techniques needed to reach the ceiling most anticipate.
Downs is not your average safety. He's a three-level difference-maker, instinctive and aggressive against the run, while also boasting the capabilities to cover slot receivers, support effectively on the back end, and communicate effectively pre-snap. And for the scheme that Daronte Jones plans to run in Washington, that would be a significant asset to call upon.
Peters wants to take the best prospect available. If Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is off the board, Downs might be exactly that. Obviously, there is a need to get more weapons for quarterback Jayden Daniels, but drafting for need never works.
Downs is a sensational prospect. Saban knows it, and the Commanders do too. Whether that'll be enough to pull the trigger is another matter.
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