Podcast Summary: The McShay Show Episode: Scouting Caleb Downs: Why the Ohio State Safety Might Be the Best Player in the 2026 Draft
Release Date: June 23, 2025
Host: Todd McShay
Guest: Steve Mensch

Introduction

In this episode of The McShay Show, NFL Draft and College Football Analyst Todd McShay, alongside co-host Steve Mensch, delves deep into the prospects of Caleb Downs, a standout safety from Ohio State. With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, Caleb Downs has emerged as a potential top-tier talent, possibly the best player in the entire draft class.

Shifting Focus: From Quarterbacks to Defensive Backs

[00:52] Todd McShay:
Todd begins by acknowledging the extensive coverage previously given to quarterbacks, mentioning prospects like Arch Manning, Cade Club Nick, and others. He notes a strategic shift in focus towards other key positions, allowing for a broader analysis of upcoming talents.

[02:15] Todd McShay:
"From what I saw in college football last year and just studying a little bit of Caleb Downs, I think he might be the best prospect in the class."

This shift allows listeners to gain insights into other critical positions, emphasizing the depth and talent present beyond quarterbacks.

Caleb Downs: An Exceptional Talent

Background and College Career
Caleb Downs stands at 6 feet, 205 pounds, with an estimated 4.45-second 40-yard dash. His collegiate journey is noteworthy:

• Alabama:

  • Freshman Year: First Alabama freshman to lead the program in tackles.
  • Stats: 107 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, 5 pass breakups, forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.

• Ohio State:

  • Sophomore Year: Transferred to Ohio State, finishing third on the team in tackles for a defense that had eight players drafted into the NFL.
  • Recognition: Unanimous All-American.

[19:28] Steve Mensch:
"Unanimous All-American, man. He was a difference-maker."

Skill Analysis: Position-Specific Traits

Todd and Steve engage in a detailed evaluation of Caleb Downs's skills, utilizing a position-specific grading system.

1. Instincts and Recognition

• Steve Mensch: 1.5
• Todd McShay: 1
• Key Insights:
  • Caleb exhibits impeccable instincts, often anticipating plays before they develop.
  • [27:18] Todd McShay:
    "I think he has the best instincts and recognition skills of any defensive back I've evaluated since 2002."

2. Coverage

• Both: 1.5
• Key Insights:
  • Strong man-to-man coverage skills, particularly effective against tight ends.
  • Demonstrates excellent burst and closing speed against receivers.
  • [41:33] Steve Mensch:
    "He's got the right path. He's got some magic in zone coverage."

3. Ball Skills

• Steve Mensch: 2
• Todd McShay: 1.5 initially, later adjusts to 2
• Key Insights:
  • Quick reaction times and solid hand-eye coordination.
  • Effective in intercepting passes, though occasional misses noted.
  • [37:00] Todd McShay:
    "He has really good body control and a lot of hand-eye coordination."

4. Run Support

• Steve Mensch: 2
• Todd McShay: 1.5
• Key Insights:
  • Aggressive and quick in run support, though occasional missed tackles are a concern.
  • [43:53] Todd McShay:
    "He misses a lot of tackles, and that's something he needs to improve."

Comparative Analysis and Market Discussion

Throughout the discussion, Todd and Steve compare Caleb Downs to NFL legends like Ed Reed, highlighting his potential to make a significant impact in the NFL. They also address the current market for defensive backs, noting that while Caleb is exceptionally talented, the market dynamics may prevent him from being the first overall pick.

[45:28] Steve Mensch:
"There is zero way Caleb Downs goes first overall. It has nothing to do with him as a player."

[45:51] Todd McShay:
"Safeties were never really taken that early anyways."

This conversation underscores Caleb's immense talent while realistically assessing his draft position based on current market trends.

Future Prospects and Other Notable Defensive Backs

As the episode progresses, Todd and Steve briefly touch upon other promising defensive backs in the 2026 draft class:

• Jermad McCoy (Tennessee):

  • Pros: Aggressive man-to-man coverage, 4 interceptions last season.
  • Status: Torn ACL, recovery status uncertain.

• Avion Terrell (Clemson):

  • Pros: Crafty, smart, excellent movement and speed.
  • Areas for Improvement: Needs to get stronger.

• A.J. Harris (Penn State):

  • Pros: Defensive prowess, Big Ten honors.
  • Challenges: Limited interceptions but high potential.

• Damani Jackson (Alabama):

  • Pros: Physicality and presence.

• Other Mentions:

  • Jair Hill (Michigan), Rod Moore (Michigan), Malik Muhammad (Texas), Dylan Thienaman (Oregon), Kamari Ramsey (USC).

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode wraps up with Todd encouraging listeners to subscribe to The McShay Report for detailed analyses and play breakdowns. He hints at future episodes focusing on other positions, including running backs.

[47:15] Todd McShay:
"Tomorrow morning... it's the full breakdown of Caleb Downs with over 50 specific plays and detailed notes on each."

Listeners are urged to stay tuned for more in-depth discussions and previews of upcoming talent as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.

Notable Quotes

• Todd McShay:
  "Caleb's not just a box safety. This guy's an interchangeable dude who could play high."
  [25:01]

• Steve Mensch:
  "He has the quickest trigger I've seen in a long time. It's lightning quick."
  [31:21]

• Todd McShay:
  "He plays aggressively. He's like a terrorist to offenses."
  [32:15]

Final Thoughts

Caleb Downs stands out as a multifaceted safety with elite instincts, coverage skills, and ball-handling abilities. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in run support and consistent tackling, his overall skill set positions him as a premier draft prospect. The McShay Show provides listeners with a comprehensive evaluation, balancing Caleb's strengths with realistic assessments of his draft prospects.

For those eager to delve deeper into Caleb Downs's playstyle and future potential, subscribing to The McShay Report is highly recommended.

This summary is crafted to provide a comprehensive overview of the podcast episode for those who haven't listened, capturing all key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions.