Alabama football fans hearts around the country broke on Wednesday when superstar safety Caleb Downs announced his intention to enter the transfer portal following Nick Saban's retirement.
On Friday Downs announced his intention to join the Ohio State Buckeyes. He will have three more years of eligibility remaining to play for the Big 10 powerhouse.
The 5-star recruit out of the state of Georgia led the Crimson Tide in tackles as a true freshman. His recruitment out of high school came down to Alabama, Georgia and Ohio State as finalists, making his transition to Columbus a bit smoother.
Downs was named SEC Newcomer of the Year, Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award Winner and was named Freshman All-American by FWAA and First Team All-American by Pro Football Focus, First Team All-SEC and First Team Freshman All-SEC.
Downs was heavily complimented by former Alabama head coach Nick Saban and his Alabama playing peers throughout the offseason and fall camp. He quickly impressed the Crimson Tide fan base as he started in all 14 contests, tallied 107 tackles with five pass breakups, two interceptions, forcing a fumble and recovering a fumble while also returning a punt for a touchdown on special teams.
His brother Josh Downs plays professionally for the Indianapolis Colts while his father Gary Downs was a running back for the New York Giants.
He was considered the third best prospect in Alabama's 2023 recruiting class behind Keon Keely and Kadyn Proctor. Proctor is already in the transfer portal as well as he considers his future.
This story will be updated.
More must-reads: