Dallas Cowboys first-round defensive back Caleb Downs stated he experienced boredom in college games due to a lack of action. "Yeah, I'll honestly say, yes, [I got bored with] the ball not coming my way," Downs said. He explained that when opponents didn't target him, especially against less talented teams, there was often little for him to do.
"There wouldn't really be much to do those games, so, [I] just get bored of not being in the action," Downs added.
Downs spent two seasons with the Ohio State Buckeyes after transferring from the Alabama Crimson Tide following his freshman year and Nick Saban's retirement. A five-star recruit, he recorded two interceptions in each of his collegiate seasons. In 2023, he led the SEC with 70 solo tackles. He won a National Championship at Ohio State in 2024 and was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2025.
Describing himself as a "full-rounded player," Downs emphasized his versatility and ability to make plays across all levels of defense. "At the end of the day, you want playmakers, and that's what I am," he stated.
The Cowboys traded up to select Downs with the No. 11 overall pick. He joins a Dallas defense that ranked poorly in points allowed, passing yards, total yards, and rushing yards last season. With the NFL's high-octane offenses, Downs is unlikely to experience boredom at the professional level.