Expert explains why Caleb Downs is still perfect Bengals fit
The Bengals would still find a perfect fit with Caleb Downs on draft day.
Cincinnati Bengals fans have long called Caleb Downs the “perfect” prospect for the team in the NFL draft, among other kind things. It wasn’t just the loud portion of the fanbase that likes Ohio State, either. Safety has been a serious problem for the Bengals since Jessie Bates walked out the door.
Bryan Cook is in town now to start alongside Jordan Battle, but that doesn’t take Downs off the board, either. ESPN’s Matt Bowen explained why the Bengals are still his favorite team fit for Downs: “Under coordinator Al Golden, Downs would be an interchangeable safety. He could rotate low in single-high zone, while playing over the top from depth.
Plus, with Downs' ability to create disruption near the line of scrimmage, Golden can play him as a big nickelback in three-safety personnel. He has the urgent play demeanor to set the identity of Cincinnati's defense. ” It’s an underrated storyline: The Bengals signing Cook might’ve upped the chances they take Downs.
They have a serious problem at slot corner right now and no good way to fix it. Maybe Downs’ long-term spot would be at safety, but the fact he can cover all sorts of problems across different packages is a big deal. Of course, this is all assuming Downs even makes it to the Bengals’ pick at No.