Ohio State star Caleb Downs addresses controversial injury rumors
Caleb Downs shot down a recent report that he had a degenerative knee condition.
After the 2026 NFL combine last month, rumors surfaced that Ohio State safety and projected top-10 pick Caleb Downs had a degenerative knee issue. However, none of those concerns were verified by any of the NFL's top insiders. Additionally, Downs never missed time at Alabama or Ohio State with a knee injury.
Pat McAfee spoke to NFL sources after the combine and was told there were no issues with Downs' knee that would deter teams from drafting him. But we had yet to hear from Downs. On Wednesday, the Ohio State Buckeyes held their annual pro day, and all 32 NFL teams were heavily represented.
The Washington Commanders brought GM Adam Peters, assistant GM Lance Newmark, head coach Dan Quinn, offensive coordinator David Blough and defensive coordinator Daronte Jones. After the pro day, Downs spoke with the media and was asked about the knee injury. He shot down those rumors.
"Nothing," Downs said regarding the potential knee injury. "I mean, really, they already answered it. Pat McAfee put out a statement about it.