Caleb Downs an intriguing but improbable option for the Giants

Caleb Downs and the 2026 Draft Dilemma

INDIANAPOLIS — Two words could stand between Caleb Downs and a spot with the Giants as the No. 5 pick in the upcoming 2026 draft: position value.

Yes, position value. It’s essential to understand this context.

Downs, primarily a safety, often finds his position disregarded when teams assess how to allocate draft picks and manage salary cap space. This has been a consistent trend in the league.

Head coach John Harbaugh, speaking during the NFL Scouting Combine, noted, “Position value is a bit of a new concept, but we’ve always known that quarterbacks are crucial. Corners? They hold significant importance too, especially in man coverage.”

He emphasized the goal of having the best players on the field. Sacrificing talent simply because of position value isn’t ideal—every player has their unique importance.

Interestingly, Downs could break the mold. Historically, safeties have had to wait for their names to be called in the early rounds. The last time a safety cracked the top 10 was Jamal Adams in 2017 at No. 6. Prior to him, Sean Taylor and Eric Berry were both taken at No. 5, and Eric Turner was selected second overall by the Browns in 1991, marking him as the highest safety in the modern draft era.

Teams often rush to grab edge rushers and cornerbacks when needing defensive support, showcasing the perceived value of those positions. But as the draft approaches on April 23, Downs hopes to shift that narrative—will the Giants be the team to pull the trigger?

General manager Joe Schoen understands the dynamics of positional value—considering past negotiations concerning Saquon Barkley and Xavier McKinney—but these were different scenarios than the draft. With Harbaugh’s influence growing, the team’s draft strategy may tilt toward what he values.

For the Giants to select Downs at No. 5, they’ll need to view him as more than just a safety; he must be perceived through the lens he holds about himself.

Downs himself stated, “It’s not so much about the position’s value but rather who’s the best defender influencing the game. My film speaks for itself, and decisions will be based on that.”

When asked if he sees himself as the best defensive player in this draft, he confidently replied, “Yeah, I grow more assured every time I step onto the field.”

His confidence seems warranted. Two teammates from Ohio State, edge rusher Arbel Reese and linebacker Sonny Stiles, are also projected to go in the first round. Both options could suit the Giants well.

Currently, New York has veteran safety Jevon Holland and 2024 second-round selection Tyler Nubin on their roster, while Dane Belton faces free agency. Harbaugh recently expressed admiration for Downs, hinting, “If drafting a future Hall of Fame safety like Caleb Downs is an option, I’m all for it.”

With a solid background, including mentorship from notable NFL veterans through his father, Gary—who played for the Giants in the ’90s—and his uncle Dre Bry, Downs grew up steeped in football culture. Alongside this history, his brother Josh has made a mark with the Colts.

Downs reflected, “My brother instilled a lot of belief in me, reinforcing that I could make it. Growing up around my dad’s friends, I never doubted my path. I always thought, ‘I’ll get there eventually.’”