Caleb Downs Hints at Possible Ohio State Return Before Michigan Game

As the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for a crucial showdown against the Michigan Wolverines, Caleb Downs, a key player for the Buckeyes, hints at his future in college football. Ohio State aims to end a tough losing streak against Michigan, having not won since 2019, with head coach Ryan Day holding a disappointing 1-4 record in this fierce rivalry.

Ohio State vs. Michigan Rivalry

This weekend, Ohio State will face Michigan with an undefeated record, while Michigan enters the game at 9-2. This matchup, often referred to as “The Game,” carries significant implications for both teams as they showcase their strengths on the national stage.

Caleb Downs and His Future

Caleb Downs is currently a junior safety at Ohio State. With the NFL Draft eligibility requiring players to be three years removed from high school, Downs, who enrolled in 2023, can declare for the draft after the 2025 college football season. His performance has cemented him as the top safety prospect, with expectations of being a top-10 pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

Recently, during his podcast “Downs 2 Business,” Downs acknowledged that this might be his last chance to play against Michigan, raising speculation about his potential decision to leave college early. This sentiment was echoed by his brother Josh during the episode.

Caleb Downs’ Impressive Stats

• Current Season Tackle Stats:
• Total: 49 tackles
• Solo: 32 tackles
• Interceptions: 2

Despite standing at 6-foot-0 and weighing 205 pounds, Downs consistently proves to play larger than his size. His prowess in both run defense and coverage has made him a standout leader for Ohio State’s defense this season.

Projected NFL Draft Landing Spots

Analysts predict several potential landing spots for Caleb Downs in the 2026 NFL Draft. Notable mentions include:

• Cincinnati Bengals
• Chicago Bears
• Minnesota Vikings
• Dallas Cowboys

With a solid combination of physicality, athleticism, and intelligence, Downs is seen as the real deal. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure makes him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking to enhance their defensive line.

Conclusion

As Caleb Downs and the Ohio State Buckeyes approach the game against Michigan, his future in college football appears bright. With a stellar season behind him and a promising draft outlook, many are eager to see how his career unfolds in the coming years.