‘It’s going to be a battle’ - Caleb Downs admits he is excited about two potential breakout Ohio State Buckeyes

The Ohio State Buckeyes had 14 players drafted from their national championship team, so they’ll be replacing a lot this season as they look to run it back.

One thing working in the Buckeyes’ favor is that they return arguably the best players on each side of the ball. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs are back for their second and third seasons, respectively, giving Ohio State superstar talent on both offense and defense.

Downs recently opened up about the battle to start alongside him in the secondary — a key position that needs to be filled following the departure of Lathan Ransom to the NDL.

Caleb Downs gives insight into Ohio State’s safety battle

Ohio State has a competition ongoing opposite Downs between sophomore Jaylen McClain and junior Malik Hartford. Regardless of who wins the starting job, both are expected to play significant roles in 2025.

Downs spoke about the battle during an appearance at Topgolf Columbus for the Trust Downs Foundation’s Driving Hope: Trust Downs Topgolf Classic, an event he attended alongside his brother, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs.

“I ain’t gonna lie, they’ve been working extremely hard this summer,” Downs said. “It’s been an honor to watch them work, to be a part of it — as a brother, a friend — and to be in a position where I can help however I can. I feel like they’re both going to excel when they get their opportunity.”