This is the time of year when draft fatigue sets in. Analysts, and probably those in front offices around the league, start to overthink prospects. They start to miss the bigger picture: how good they are or what they can be.
Caleb Downs is a prime example. From a talent perspective, he is arguably the best overall prospect in this class. He doesn't play a premium position, but his versatility and ability to impact the game at all three levels should make him an NFL star in no time.
The Washington Commanders are crying out for this sort of option on the back end of their defense. Others will also be in contention at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, but one rising analyst believes general manager Adam Peters shouldn't think twice about selecting Downs if he's available.
Commanders cannot overthink Caleb Downs as the right pick at No. 7
Jordan Reid of ESPN had the Commanders taking Downs in a new mock draft. The Ohio State standout's instincts and versatile athletic traits are a perfect match for the scheme that defensive coordinator Daronte Jones plans to run. If he's there, this could be the guy.
"The instincts and versatility of [Caleb] Downs would immediately help a Washington defense that gave up an average of 8.1 yards per pass attempt last season (third worst in the NFL). He is a consistent tackler with great ball skills."
The Commanders don't pick again until No. 71 overall in the third round. This makes the No. 7 pick even more pivotal. Downs might be the safe choice compared to others, but that doesn't make him the wrong one by any stretch.
After the additions made by Peters throughout free agency, one could make a strong case for the Commanders adding more firepower around quarterback Jayden Daniels. But if the focus remains on Jones' defense, a middle-of-the-field enforcer who can lead this group through communication and exceptional playmaking makes Downs an intriguing possibility.
Downs is not your average safety. He comes into the league with 10-year starter potential. He's a Pro Bowler waiting to happen with a relentless mindset to be great. He's not a hard evaluation, and it's not hard to see why the defensive back would be high on Washington's shortlist of options.
No draft pick is a sure thing. Every selection comes with risk. But regarding Downs, there aren't many more locks in this draft that will go on to achieve great things in the pros.
And sometimes, it doesn't have to be that hard at all.