2026 NFL Draft: Caleb Downs 'the best HS player I've ever seen', says coach

The Buckeyes' program has become a factory of top NFL prospects, and boasts what should be at least four first-rounders in the 2026 NFL Draft alone.

As Ohio State head coach Ryan Day put it recently, "If you're not a first or second rounder, then this probably isn't the right place for you."

One player who passed Day's tough admission criteria is his former student, Caleb Downs, the consensus top safety prospect, and a potential top ten pick in the upcoming draft.

Day joined host Kevin Clark on ESPN's This is Football to share how Downs not only met his lofty expectations but far exceeded them.

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Downs 'the best HS player' Day's ever seen

Day first watched Downs play during a recruitment visit.

"He almost single-handedly beat them that night. He was all over the field, offense, defense, special teams, you name it."

What he witnessed that night left a lasting impression.

"I remember walking away saying 'I think that might be the best high school player I've ever seen live.'"

Downs ultimately chose Alabama over Ohio State, a blow that clearly stung for Day.

But it didn't last long. Day got his man when Downs transferred to Columbus, and it didn't take long for the young safety to make his mark.

Downs' maturity set him apart immediately

From the moment Downs arrived at Ohio State, Day says, he carried himself differently.

"He walked in the building, he just brought a certain level of maturity and professionalism to the table, right out of the gate."

Day has no doubt that quality will follow Downs into the NFL.

"Wherever he goes, he's going to bring that same type of mentality to the building."

Michael Reaves / Staff

On the field, Day says the tape speaks for itself.

"When you watch him move, you see how smooth he is, you see his ball skills, you see him be able to identify what is happening."

Day even suggested Downs' athleticism transcended his position.

"He probably could have played running back in college."

Day: Downs is NFL-ready right now

Asked what an NFL team can expect if they take Downs on draft night, Day was emphatic.

"He'll have an impact the minute he walks in the building."

In our latest mock, we have Downs going to the Dolphins at 11 in the 2026 NFL Draft.

If you're an NFL Game Pass subscriber, tune into DAZN live on 23 April to see which team takes Day's favourite former pupil.