Downs is an immediate difference-maker, who can change the entire complexion of the team’s defense.
“Talent in the backend at all costs should be the aim in Cincinnati,” B/R scout Daniel Harms said. “The secondary has long been a sore spot in Cincinnati.
“Downs was never going to blow up the combine with his elite athletic traits, but he has the instincts play on the roof of the defense, the route-recognition and football IQ to come down as a robber or two-high player and he can man-cover tight ends as a big nickel. Downs is a defensive floor raiser and allows Cincinnati’s young corners to keep getting better, with a player on the backend who knows exactly how to support everyone on defense.”