Caleb Downs: A Potential Top 10 2026 NFL Draft Steal
Kevin Walsh
Host · Writer
Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From NFL Pro Football Today
Cincinnati Bengals' Draft Strategy and Potential Impact Players
In the upcoming NFL draft, the Cincinnati Bengals hold the 10th pick and there is significant buzz around Caleb Downs, a highly talented safety from Alabama and Ohio State. If Downs is available at the 10th pick, which is increasingly uncertain, Cincinnati would likely be eager to select him. Downs is known for his exceptional defensive skills, his ability to play as a ball hawking safety, and for his impactful presence on the field. His role in improving Cincinnati's defense, especially against strong competitors like Lamar Jackson and Pittsburgh, would be substantial.
Outside of Downs, there are other promising defensive talents like Ruben Bain, Sonny Styles, and Mansor Delaney from LSU, regarded as potentially the best cornerback in the draft. Each of these players also represents a good fit for the Bengals’ needs and could provide significant value at the 10th spot. The discussion also ventured into whether Cincinnati might prefer an edge rusher to succeed Trey Hendrickson, hinting at multiple strategies the Bengals could employ depending on how the draft unfolds.
Quarterback Prospects and Market Predictions
The segment also touched upon the quarterback market in the draft. The focus was on Ty Simpson, whose performance has been a mix of high expectations and underwhelming results. There's skepticism about his worthiness as a first-round pick, pegging him more as a day 2 or day 3 selection. In contrast, Garrett Nussmeyer's potential as a top pick and a Heisman Trophy winner was highlighted, despite a less than stellar team season.
The draft process was described as unpredictable, with names potentially moving up or down the draft order as the event approaches. The implications of these shifts are significant, not just for the teams selecting but for the players' careers. Overall, the conversation underscored the strategic considerations teams must weigh and the variables that impact draft day decisions.
