Caleb Downs Would Transform Defense

Caleb Downs Would Transform Defense

Through the first five weeks of the season, the Dolphins’ defense has been underwhelming to say the least.

In four of their five games, they have allowed 27 points or more, which has led them to a 1-4 start.

Could they rebound over the course of the season and make a playoff run?

Well, anything is possible, like in the 2016 season, when Adam Gase realized that his offense should run through Jay Ajayi.

Realistically, though, this is more likely than not going to be a lost season with the team bottoming out and heading toward a top-five draft pick, especially when you see the back half of the schedule and the fact that Miami will move valuable veteran assets for mid-late round draft capital.

The goal for the 2026 draft should be for the Dolphins to get the best player available, regardless of position, because frankly, this team needs help nearly everywhere on the field.

Luckily, the biggest issue is in the secondary, where it just so happens that arguably the best talent in the draft resides.

That would be Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.

Downs enrolled at Alabama in his freshman season after being a highly-touted recruit, and he quickly lived up to the hype.

He was the first Alabama freshman to lead the team in tackles (107) since at least 1970, had two interceptions and two forced fumbles, on his way to becoming the SEC newcomer of the year and the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year.

In 2024, he transferred to Ohio State, and he has only become better since making the move to the Buckeyes.