There is arguably not a better fit for the New Orleans Saints in the NFL Draft than Caleb Downs. He's been highly touted since he was a freshman at Alabama starting under Nick Saban, so he's used to the pressure that would come with being a top-10 selection. He'd instantly fill the void left by Alontae Taylor at STAR and likely be an improvement soon. The biggest opposition to the Saints dream is the fact that everyone else knows Downs is one of the biggest slam dunks in the draft.
ESPN's Peter Shrager added fuel to Downs' draft stock. There is no expectation for Downs to make it out of the top-10. The Saints need to be on high alert and start considering how bad do they want Downs.
Ohio State S Caleb Downs is unlikely to be available at No. 12, per @PSchrags:
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) April 14, 2026
"I've been told by numerous teams that there's no chance in hell that Caleb Downs will be around at No. 12 overall."pic.twitter.com/wK4UjSpK6n
Saints may have to trade up to land Caleb Downs
If there is "no chance in bloody hell that Caleb Downs will be around at No. 12," the Cowboys aren't the only team that needs to be concerned. Shrager's statement was too strong to be isolated to one team. General managers clearly think there's multiple teams who could snag Downs along the way, and it's doubtful that the Saints are first on the list.
Schrager mentioned there isn't many blue chip guys in his scouting this year. Three of the four, Jeremiyah Love, Sonny Styles and Downs. The lack of blue chip prospects could press the safety into the top-10. Most times, teams will avoid making that decision. This is a special circumstance.
The uniqueness of the situation could force the Saints into needing to trade up if they really want Downs. That adds another layer to the conversation. Not only are you picking a safety in the top-10, you're having to also trade up for that player. That may be a little too rich for the Saints.
I contend that Downs lining in the slot at the STAR position makes him a premium position in the Saints defense, but even then, it's a bit different than an offensive lineman or edge rusher. It's easy to stretch and call Downs a premium player in the defense, but he still doesn't play a premium position in the traditional sense.
There isn't many Saints fans who would bat an eye at them picking Downs at 8. Most will even encourage it. Having to move up could be where some, including the Saints themselves, draw the line.
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