The Dallas Cowboys landed what many called one of the biggest steals in the draft when they took safety Caleb Downs at No. 11. Now, Downs is beginning to look at the big picture.
Ultimately, the safety is one piece in what Dallas’ expects to be a growing defense. But after seeing how Downs stared down the Cowboys’ Lombardi trophies, fans will begin imagining greater heights, via Jon Machota of The Athletic.
“At the end of the day, that’s what we’re striving for,” Downs said. “That’s what everybody’s goal is at the beginning of the season. It’s time to put in the work to push towards it.”
Caleb Downs looking at the Dallas Cowboys’ Lombardi trophies pic.twitter.com/HoPedHmrYt
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) April 24, 2026
The Cowboys haven’t won a Super Bowl since 1995. They made the playoffs three straight years from 2021-2023, but didn’t advance past the Divisional Round. Dallas has been shut out of the playoffs the past two seasons, which is why they were in a position to select Downs.
During the 2025 season, the Cowboys ranked 30th in total defense, allowing 377 yards per game. Their pass defense ranked dead last, allowing 251.5 YPG. It was clear a playmaker like Downs was necessary for their secondary to show real improvement.
Over his three years at Ohio State, the safety racked up 257 tackles, 16 for a loss, 12 passes defended and six interceptions. Downs won a national championship with the Buckeyes in 2024 before winning the Lott Trophy and Jim Thorpe Award in 2025. He was a Unanimous All-American both seasons.
Downs is now poised to be a difference maker in Dallas’ secondary for the foreseeable future. If all works out how the Cowboys are hoping, perhaps a Lombardi Trophy will be in the safety’s future.
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