Ohio State safety Caleb Downs was flagged with a partially torn meniscus and a potentially degenerative ACL during his medical evaluation at the 2026 NFL Combine. But don't panic — the draft world isn't buying into the hype, and major NFL teams are standing by their guy.
During the combine in Indianapolis, Downs won't work out Friday during the 2026 NFL combine, so medical checks took center stage instead. An anonymous NFC scout relayed that Downs had a couple of issues flagged during his medical check, including a partially torn meniscus. The meniscus tear is considered manageable, but the degenerative ACL flag is what caught everyone's attention. Still, experts are quick to note that plenty of NFL players have played through similar conditions and built successful careers.
ESPN's Pat McAfee reported that multiple NFL teams have told him there is nothing in the medical that would deter them from bringing Caleb Downs in, especially with how great of a football player he is. McAfee even suggested the report might be strategic smoke from a team trying to nudge Downs down the draft board. Downs is ranked as the No. 1 safety available in the draft, and he is projected to go to the Cleveland Browns with the No. 6 pick on latest mocks.
Downs could participate in Ohio State's pro day on March 26, where he'll get a second opinion on his knee and show scouts exactly what he can do on the field. After playing a key role in Ohio State's run to a national championship in 2024, Downs recorded 68 tackles (5.0 for loss) alongside two interceptions and 1.0 sacks during his junior season with the Buckeyes. The bottom line: his talent hasn't changed, and neither has the interest level from NFL front offices.