What's Happening?
The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly considering a trade to move up to the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. According to CBS Sports draft analyst Josh Edwards, this move would involve a deal with the Cleveland Browns. Caleb Downs is highly regarded as one of the top safety prospects in recent memory and is considered a top 5-10 overall prospect in the draft. His accolades include winning a College Football Playoff national championship with Ohio State, the 2025 Lott Trophy, and the Jim Thorpe Award, along with being a unanimous All-American twice. The Cowboys, led by owner Jerry Jones, are looking to bolster their roster with immediate results, especially with quarterback Dak Prescott nearing 33
years of age.
Why It's Important?
The potential trade by the Dallas Cowboys to acquire Caleb Downs highlights the team's urgency to strengthen their defense and make a significant impact in the upcoming NFL season. Downs is seen as a transformative player who could enhance the Cowboys' defensive lineup. This move reflects the team's strategy to invest in high-caliber talent to remain competitive, especially as they face the challenges of an aging quarterback and the need for defensive reinforcements. The decision to trade up in the draft underscores the importance of securing top-tier talent to maintain the team's competitive edge in the NFL.
What's Next?
If the trade goes through, the Dallas Cowboys will need to negotiate terms with the Cleveland Browns to secure the No. 6 pick. This move could set a precedent for other teams looking to trade up in the draft to acquire key players. The Cowboys' decision will likely influence other teams' strategies in the draft, potentially leading to a ripple effect of trades and selections. Additionally, the acquisition of Caleb Downs could impact the Cowboys' defensive strategies and roster decisions in the upcoming season.
