Caleb Downs: Scouting Report
Size
Caleb Downs has good height for the position. He has added strength to his frame and has room to continue to fill out. He has good length, with the reach and frame desired in a safety. Downs is tall and rangy enough to be a deep safety, but has the build to play closer to the line of scrimmage as well.
Athleticism
Downs has excellent athletic ability that would allow him to be a star at multiple positions. He has the speed and range to cover ground in the secondary and erase the mistakes of others. Downs is a fluid athlete who has the lateral agility to excel in coverage. He displays an explosive burst that allows him to close on offensive players quickly.
Coverage Skills
Downs has incredible anticipation in coverage. He has a natural feel for where the play is going and is able to make big plays as a result. Downs can cover receivers one on one and could fill in as a cornerback if needed. He thrives when he is allowed to play in space with his read and react ability, making big plays for the defense.
Ball Skills
Downs doesn’t waste the opportunities he creates with his anticipation. He is very natural catching the ball, with soft hands and good timing. Downs takes good angles to the football and will high point the ball before the receiver has an opportunity to make the catch. He reads receivers well, getting his head around to make plays on the ball downfield.
Run Support / Tackling
Downs puts his added strength to good use, delivering hits through the ball carrier. He takes good angles to the football making sure tackles in space. Downs is physical enough and quick enough to beat blockers on the perimeter and get to the ball carrier.
Projection
There is little on the football field that Caleb Downs does not do well. His instincts, ball skills and tackling ability are all excellent and will help him be an excellent safety. Downs has all the tools to excel in the secondary and will develop into one of the best safeties in the country.
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