Caleb Downs stepped into the NFL world with plenty of hype. Now, he is getting something even more valuable: respect from veteran teammates.
The Big D brings the former Ohio State and Alabama star with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Expectations are already very high for the rookie safety. As per Rashan Gary's early impressions, the team thinks they have added more than just a talented defender.
Rashan Gary Thinks Caleb Downs Is Already Showing Leadership Inside Cowboys Defense
The Big D made major changes to their defense this offseason after a frustrating last season. Jerry Jones' crew ranked last in the NFL in scoring defense, allowing 30.1 points per game. This season, the team responded by drafting pro players like Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence in the first round. Plus, signing veterans like Jalen Thompson, and trading for edge rusher Rashan Gary.
Amid this, Rashan Gary shared insights about Downs during the NFL Network's “Good Morning Football" segment.
He said,"He's a dog man. It's early, man, but he's a pro's pro. You know, having a young guy also trying to bring guys along. So just him being a natural leader, man. He's a great guy, and I just can't wait for him to keep on going and striving because we're going to need him."
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That remark makes sense because Gary did not focus on Downs' athletic ability or draft position. Instead, he pointed to leadership. For a rookie who has not yet played a regular-season snap, earning that kind of praise from a veteran star speaks volumes. Rashan Gary's words show the expectations surrounding Downs as Dallas tries to rebuild one of the league's worst defenses.
Downs arrived in Big D after one of the most decorated college careers in recent memory. Ohio State built its defense around him, and the results followed. The champ led the Buckeyes to the nation’s top-ranked defense in 2025, earning the Jim Thorpe Award, the Lott IMPACT Trophy, and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors.
He finished his college career with 257 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, six interceptions, and 17 passes defended across three seasons between Alabama and Ohio State. Following the draft, Ohio State HC Ryan Day described Downs as a player with elite instincts and leadership skills. Day also predicted that he would make an immediate impact.
Those same qualities are now showing up during Cowboys practices. You can book Rashan Gary for speaking engagements or autograph sessions through Mayfield Marketing. For long-term partnerships, the team also gives sports sponsorship consulting in Wisconsin to maximize impact and audience engagement. You can also hire Green Bay Packers players for corporate events by visiting their website and booking Packers players.
The agency has also worked with famous players such as Brett Favre, LeRoy Butler, John Kuhn, and others.
