NFL draft injury analysis: Caleb Downs, S - Ohio State
Caleb Downs medical report
The Lions are in a quandary at the safety position with the uncertain health status of Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch . That makes safety a legitimate option in any round of the 2026 NFL draft. The consensus top safety, Caleb Downs, was initially a medically clean prospect until rumors surfaced after the NFL combine.
If he slips to the Lions pick at #17, should they grab him? Here is the excerpt of my medical report on Downs which includes an update on his concern level : Caleb Downs, S (21) - Ohio State Projected round 1. #1 on Jeff Risdon board Feb 19.
Concern level 1/10. Post-combine 4/10. 2025: 14/14 games.
Nagging injury limited him in spring practices. He stated: “I’m good for the most part”. 2024: 16/16 games 2023: 14/14 games Post-combine update : Significant knee rumors emerged after the combine.