Dallas Cowboys safety Caleb Downs praised as top defensive rookie

Caleb Downs Dallas Cowboys defensive rookie Dak Prescott NFL draft

The Dallas Cowboys traded up in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs with the No. 11 overall pick, aiming to improve a defense that lagged after a 2025 season that missed the playoffs. Quarterback Dak Prescott said of the rookie, “I love the way he’s wired,” and highlighted the veteran presence on the team that can help Downs develop. Former NFL star Tyrann Mathieu projected that Downs could record 100 tackles, three sacks and three interceptions, calling him a candidate for Defensive Rookie of the Year. The team’s offseason focus on defensive upgrades includes veteran free‑agent signings and the addition of Downs, who is expected to be a key contributor as the Cowboys look to return to postseason contention in 2026.

Sources

Cowboys just got the best kind of Caleb Downs validation yet [thelandryhat.com]

2 months ago

Dak Prescott Shares Strong Feelings on Cowboys Rookie Caleb Downs [heavy.com]

2 months ago

“I Love the Way That He’s Wired”: Dak Prescott & Other Cowboys Veterans Share True Feelings on Caleb Downs [www.essentiallysports.com]

2 months ago

"That looks gross," "This is absurd": NFL fans rip Cowboys for Caleb Downs' jersey number [www.sportskeeda.com]

2 months ago