Ohio State's Caleb Downs Named Top College Defender, Eyes Expanded Offensive Role

Ohio State's junior safety Caleb Downs is emerging as one of college football's top defensive players, with Pro Football Focus ranking him second overall in their 2025 PFF College 50 and praising his versatility and high coverage grades. Despite intense NFL speculation, Downs' older brother and NFL wide receiver Josh Downs advises him to stay focused on the present and develop consistency before considering a professional career. Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has also explored using Downs in a gadget offensive role, attending running backs meetings and considering contingency plans, although Downs did not play offense in 2024. Caleb Downs is expected to play a leadership role on the Buckeyes' defense for the 2025 season, with the team undergoing significant offensive changes including new personnel and coordinators. Meanwhile, the college football world is abuzz with speculation about Nick Saban possibly returning to coaching, though former coach Urban Meyer believes Saban is unlikely to return to college football and may only come back under very specific circumstances. Meyer also expressed confusion over Alabama's financial spending and competitiveness in the current landscape.