Do you ever wish you could get a second chance? Few go through life without some form of regret. Five years ago, the New York Jets were picking second overall in the NFL Draft. After losing out on the first overall pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars welcomed former National Champion quarterback Trevor Lawrence to their franchise. Afterwards, New York opted for BYU quarterback Zach Wilson. Since then, Trevor Lawrence has led Jacksonville to the playoffs in two of the last five seasons, including a 13-4 record in 2025. Meanwhile, Zach Wilson is currently a free agent after spending the year as Tua Tagovailoa‘s backup in Miami. To make matters worse, Wilson was selected over such players as Ja’Marr Chase, Penei Sewell, Jaycee Horn, and Patrick Surtain II.
Now, the team gets to right a major wrong. No, they won’t pick a quarterback second. However, the opportunity to land one of the best players in the draft is in front of them. While some will view the position of safety “unworthy” of the second overall pick, the impact of Ohio State safety Caleb Downs could be massive for the team. Long-term success is built in the draft. If successful, the Ohio State safety could live up to that value.
Caleb Downs to the Jets Is More Realistic Than You Think
Less than 60 days until the NFL Draft. With everyone expecting a Heisman-winning National Champion quarterback, Fernando Mendoza to be taken first overall by the Raiders, all eyes are on the second overall pick. Needless to say, New York will have plenty of options. Thus far, Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reeese is the projected favorite. A linebacker/edge rusher hybrid would be a worthwhile addition to New York’s defense. In addition, Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr and Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailley have also been named to watch for the second pick.
However, there is one name that hasn’t gotten enough attention. NFL traditoinalists undertand position value is key. Historically, edge rusher has been regarded as the most valuable position on defense. Regardless, the desire for a premier edge rusher shouldn’t cloud judgment. While some think taking a safety within the top five is non-essential, there’s no denying that safety Caleb Downs can’t contribute right away. In Mel Kiper’s latest mock draft, he had New York selecting Downs with the second pick.
.@MelKiperESPN has released a new NFL mock draft
He has the #Jets taking:
Ohio St safety Caleb Downs at 2
Clemson DT Peter Woods at 16
Thoughts❓ pic.twitter.com/Pjd232qcBK
— Harrison Glaser (@NYJetsTFMedia) February 24, 2026
Caleb Downs can help the Jets biggest weakness
Few people are as involved in the game as Caleb Downs. A top ten prospect in high school, Downs committed to Alabama in 2023. Downs started at strong safety his freshman season for renowned head coach Nick Saban. Immediately, Downs contributed with 107 total tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. Following Nick Saban’s retirement, Downs opted to transfer from Alabama to Ohio State. Since then, Downs has proven the move to be a fruitful one.
During his sophomore season, Downs recorded 81 total tackles and two interceptions while defending six passes. Along with a punt return touchdown. Through his contributions, Downs was recognized as a consensus All-American, along with helping the Buckeyes capture their ninth National Championship. Downs followed that up with another two-interception season, providing two forced fumbles and his first career sack. This season, Downs played for former Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia, who became the Buckeyes new DC. The production he put up resulted in Downs capturing the highly coveted Lott Trophy and Jim Thorpe awards. Through his three seasons in college, Downs finished with a career record of 38-6. Succeeding in every season, and his ability to generate turnovers, Caleb Downs can contribute right away wherever he lands.
Caleb Downs taking on the pulling center and making a tackle. That’s the good stuff pic.twitter.com/BYCF9rgprM
— Ted Nguyen (@FB_FilmAnalysis) February 14, 2026
Jets are set up to help a Safety like Caleb Downs grow
At the end of the day, the pick will come down to what Darren Mougey and Aaron Glenn decide is best for the team. Any of the three edge rushers mentioned previously would be a great addition. However, if you examine the coaching staff additions, Downs might be a better fit than you think. Starting with the new defensive coordinator Brian Duker. Before joining the Miami Dolphins last year, Duker joined Aaron Glenn in Detroit on the Lions staff.
During his two seasons, Duker helped contribute to the development of safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Along with Duker, he will be joined by Ryan Slowik, the team’s new safeties coach. Despite concerns before the season, the Dolphins secondary exceeded expectations in 2025. Between a trio of Aaron Glenn, Duker, and Slowik, New York has a trio of defensive coaches well-versed in defensive backs. In addition, it will give New York the chance to reunite Downs with his former Alabama teammate, safety Malachi Moore.
Football Family
For the Jets, the opportunity to grab an instant impact edge rusher is tempting. Especially with their needs on defense. However, after completing the only NFL season without a single interception, the secondary needs to be prioritized. For them, a guy like Caleb Downs could start a culture change. Not only with his impact on gameday, but also with his background as well. Downs’ father, Gary Downs, was a top 100 draft pick in the 90s. Last year, his uncle, Dre Bly, served as the assistant defensive backs coach. Before coaching, Bly was a Super Bowl Champion cornerback with the St. Louis Rams, with 11 years of playing experience. Not to mention, Downs’ older brother Josh is currently a wide receiver with the Indianapolis Colts.
No one is guaranteed to succeed. But between his production on the field and playing for coaches with NFL experience, Caleb Downs could be a worthwhile addition. As a turnover generator and a culture setter, he has the opportunity to make a lasting impact wherever he’s drafted.
Main Photo: [Rick Osentoski] – Imagn Images