Giants Eye Caleb Downs in 2026 NFL Mock Draft, Harbaugh Calls Him Future Hall of Famer
In a recent development that has sparked excitement among football analysts and fans, the New York Giants are projected to select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs with the fifth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Mock Draft 2.0, as reported by Steve Serby of the New York Post. Serby's mock draft, released a few days ago, positions Downs as a top target for the Giants, highlighting his potential to transform the team's defensive lineup.
Serby's High Praise for Downs and Giants' Enthusiasm
Steve Serby described Caleb Downs in glowing terms, labeling him a "playmaker, culture-setter, leader" and even suggesting he could be "arguably the best player in the draft." According to Serby, Giants head coach John Harbaugh cannot resist Downs, comparing him to Kyle Hamilton, the standout safety for the Baltimore Ravens. This comparison underscores Downs' elite potential and fit within Harbaugh's defensive strategy.
Adding to the mock draft buzz, Serby noted that Giants general manager Joe Schoen, whom he called "Mr. Positional Value," was so thrilled with the prospect of drafting Downs that he was "high-fiving everyone in the war room." This imagery paints a picture of unanimous excitement within the Giants' organization, signaling strong internal support for selecting Downs early in the draft.
Harbaugh's Open Endorsement on Podcast
To further spice up the predictions, John Harbaugh openly declared his admiration for Caleb Downs during a recent appearance on the Mike Francesa Podcast. Harbaugh, a longtime former Ravens coach, stated, "I'd take him in a second," emphasizing his high regard for the young safety. He elaborated on his philosophy, saying, "We favor Hall of Fame safeties. So, if we have a chance to draft a potential future Hall of Fame safety in Caleb Downs, that would be just fine with me."
Harbaugh clarified that the Giants' approach at the fifth overall pick would be a "best player" selection rather than a "need" pick. He expressed a desire to choose a player he envisions wearing a gold jacket someday, referring to the Pro Football Hall of Fame honor. This draft pick holds special significance for Harbaugh, as it marks his highest selection ever as a head coach. The last time he was involved with a pick this high was in 1999, when Donovan McNabb was selected while Harbaugh served as an assistant coach for Andy Reid with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Harbaugh's excitement about picking fifth overall is palpable, and he reiterated that Downs would be an ideal choice, perfectly aligning with his vision for building a championship-caliber team.
Who is Caleb Downs?
Caleb Downs is a 21-year-old safety who has quickly risen to prominence in college football. His athletic journey began at Mill Creek High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, showcasing his versatile sportsmanship. In college, Downs played for the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2023 before transferring to the Ohio State Buckeyes for the 2024-2025 seasons.
Downs' accolades are impressive and speak to his elite status on the field:
- CFP National Champion
- Recipient of the Lott Trophy and Jim Thorpe Award
- Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (once)
- Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year (twice)
- Two First-Team All-Big Ten selections
- Two Unanimous All-American selections
- First-Team All-SEC selection
- SEC Freshman of the Year honor
His college football career statistics further highlight his impact:
- 256 total tackles (163 solo)
- 10 passes defended
- 1.5 sacks
- Three forced fumbles
- Six interceptions
- Two touchdowns
These achievements position Downs as a top defensive prospect, capable of making an immediate impact in the NFL. With the Giants' potential interest and Harbaugh's endorsement, the 2026 draft could see Downs becoming a cornerstone of New York's defense, aiming for a legacy that includes Hall of Fame recognition.
