COLUMBUS, Ohio — The conversation around Ohio State football’s championship aspirations often centers on offensive firepower, but a sophomore cornerback might play an important role in helping the Buckeyes accomplish their goals next season.

The Ohio State Buckeyes' 2025 college football season ended in heartbreaking fashion. After a 12-0 start, head coach Ryan Day and Ohio State lost the Big Ten Championship Game to the Indiana Hoosiers,

Ohio State standout defensive back Caleb Downs will forgo his senior season and enter the NFL Draft this spring. According to Downs via his Instagram account, X account,

Ohio State safety Caleb Downs announced he is entering the 2026 NFL Draft after as stellar two years in Columbus after transferring from Alabama.

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Ohio State’s versatile defensive back star Caleb Downs has declared for the NFL Draft. He entered the draft a day after Buckeye receiver Carnell Tate. Subsequently, this now creates two top prospects to watch for in the first round come April.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Safety Caleb Downs is the latest Ohio State standout to declare for the NFL draft. The two-time AP first-team All-American announced his decision on Wednesday during the “Downs 2 Business” podcast with his brother, Josh Downs, a wide receiver with the Indianapolis Colts.

Central Ohioans who don't have a rooting interest in the NFL playoffs can follow several former Ohio State and Columbus-area high school players.