Ohio State’s Caleb Downs Wins Jim Thorpe Award for Excellence

Caleb Downs, a safety for Ohio State, has been honored with the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award, recognizing him as the top defensive back in the United States. This accolade comes on the heels of Ohio State’s recent loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship game. Downs secured the award by outperforming notable contenders including Mansoor Delane from LSU and Leonard Moore from Notre Dame, marking a significant achievement in his college football career.

Throughout the 2023 season, Downs has demonstrated exceptional skill, amassing 60 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, and two interceptions over 13 games. His performance has not only placed him in the spotlight but has also made him the first Ohio State defensive back to win the Jim Thorpe Award since Malcolm Jenkins in 2008. The award, first presented to Antoine Winfield Sr. in 1998, highlights the legacy of talented defensive backs within the Ohio State program.

From Alabama to Ohio State: A Remarkable Journey

Downs’ football journey began at the University of Alabama, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2023. Under the guidance of the renowned Nick Saban, known for developing exceptional defensive players, Downs earned a starting position—a rarity for true freshmen, especially in the defensive backfield. His talent was evident from the outset, leading to a pivotal role in the Crimson Tide’s success.

In the winter of 2024, following Saban’s retirement, Downs transferred to Ohio State. His journey has continued to be marked by success, playing a key role in the Buckeyes’ victory in last season’s national championship. With Ohio State currently ranked as the No. 2 seed in the College Football Playoffs, Downs is expected to be instrumental as they prepare to face the winner of the Miami versus Texas A&M matchup.

As the playoffs approach, the Buckeyes will rely heavily on Downs to help navigate challenging opponents, both of whom feature powerful offensive players. With this being potentially his final season at Ohio State, Downs is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming games.

Future Prospects: NFL Draft Considerations

Looking ahead, Downs is eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft and is likely to declare his candidacy this April. His standout performances have drawn attention from numerous NFL teams eager to secure a top pick. While his position as a safety carries a different level of value compared to other defensive roles, Downs’ abilities may still command significant interest in the draft.

As the college football landscape continues to evolve, Caleb Downs stands out as a remarkable talent. His achievements not only showcase his individual skills but also contribute to the storied history of Ohio State football. With the College Football Playoffs on the horizon, all eyes will be on Downs as he aims to lead his team to championship glory once again.