2026 NFL Draft rankings: Caleb Downs tops list of best DB prospects
Here's a look at the best available DB prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, as ranked by USA TODAY Sports.
The best NFL defenses often have one quality in common with the world's best cellular service carriers – great coverage. And just like a phone plan, you can add on all the bells and whistles you want. Pass-rushers, linebackers, run stuffers and more mean nothing if the back end of the defense is nonexistent.
Luckily for teams looking to upgrade their coverage, there will be no shortage of options in the 2026 NFL Draft . Littered with quality talent at cornerback and safety, they are two of the strongest positions in the class headlined by Ohio State's Caleb Downs. It's a group that will bring youth and an infusion of new talent into the league and that will be music to the ears of teams with needs in the secondary Considered one of the top position groups in this year's draft, here's a look at the top DB prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, with scouting reports and rankings provided by USA TODAY Sports' Ayrton Ostly .
NFL NEWS, TAKES, FANTASY ADVICE: USA TODAY Sports has you covered with our NFL vodcast 2026 NFL Draft: Ranking top DB prospects 1. Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State Scouting report : Downs won't go No. 1 overall because of the position he plays.
The Buckeyes' star defensive back is one of the best safeties in recent memory. He offers impressive athleticism, coverage skills, run defense and general football IQ to be a true defensive weapon in multiple ways. He raises the floor of a secondary while moving up the ceiling for a creative playcaller.
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