Should the Vikings select Caleb Downs in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Ohio State safety Caleb Downs would be a perfect prospect for the Minnesota Vikings; the only question is if he will be available at pick 18. Downs’ elite IQ, versatility, and three-down impact make him a premier player in the 2026 NFL Draft and someone the Vikings must target, especially with their need in the secondary. He would fill in for Harrison Smith and be the next great safety in the purple and gold.
Although Harrison Smith hasn’t officially retired, it’s heavily speculated that he will hang up the cleats this offseason. Even if he doesn’t, the Vikings should still invest in the position and find his successor. They haven’t been heavily connected to Downs, but a rumor around him having a partially torn meniscus could scare teams and cause him to fall in April.
Downs' calling card is his elite IQ. It’s rare that he’s not the smartest player on the field. The former Buckeye excels at diagnosing plays and communicating everyone’s responsibilities. He doesn’t just understand his role, but he knows where everyone else should be. This makes him an invaluable player who will be a leader and instantly elevate a defense.
Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores will have a field day scheming up different ways to use Downs. He logged snaps in the box, as a free safety, in the slot, on the defensive line, and as an outside cornerback in 2025. He thrives everywhere on the field and forces quarterbacks to constantly know where he is. If they don’t, they will likely make a detrimental mistake.
There isn’t a possession where Downs isn’t present. He’s stellar against the run and shutdown in coverage. On running downs, he flies downhill and expertly navigates through traffic to seamlessly reach the ball carrier. Once he arrives, he’s a sure tackler and ensures the play is over.
Despite this ability, he’s equally impressive in coverage. Downs understands coverages and is a fluid enough mover to cover the entire field. He’s constantly surveying the quarterback’s eyes and awaiting an opportunity to make a game-changing play. Additionally, he’s comfortable in man coverage and can guard both running backs and tight ends.
The biggest issue with Downs' game stems from his lack of elite size. He can struggle against the physicality of bigger tight ends while running routes. Similarly, he can get wiped out by offensive linemen in run defense. His elite athleticism helps wipe away this advantage, but it’s still prevalent in certain circumstances.
Overall, Caleb Downs is one of the top players in the 2026 NFL Draft and is an ideal selection for the Vikings if he falls to pick 18. His high IQ, versatility, and three-down impact make him a well-rounded prospect who could be the successor to Harrison Smith.