Nick Saban shares mouthwatering tip to Cowboys after Caleb Downs pick

The Dallas Cowboys received high praise — and a lighthearted recommendation — from Nick Saban after selecting Caleb Downs with the No. 11 overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday night.

Saban, speaking during ESPN’s draft coverage, highlighted both Downs’ on-field ability and character while offering insight into what Dallas is adding to its secondary.

“This guy is a tremendous, tremendous person and competitor. And I’ll tell you what… there’s only a few guys that I love more than this guy as a player on our football team. And he did a great job and he improved even more in Ohio State. Now, I’m a give the Dallas Cowboys a little tip – his momma, n recruiting, made the best white chili I ever ate. You need to go there!”

Downs, 21, enters the NFL after completing his third collegiate season in 2025. The former Alabama and Ohio State safety produced 68 total tackles, including 45 solo stops, along with 23 assisted tackles. He also recorded one sack, one pass defended, two forced fumbles and an interception, showcasing versatility and impact across multiple defensive phases.

Caleb Downs positions Cowboys for immediate impact as Day 2 picks await

His development at Ohio State followed a strong start at Alabama, reinforcing his reputation as one of the top defensive backs in the class. Downs’ instincts, physicality and range project him as an immediate contributor in the Cowboys’ defensive scheme.

Dallas now turns its attention to the remaining rounds of the draft, holding five selections on Day 2. The Cowboys are scheduled to pick at Nos. 92, 112, 114, 137 and 152 as Rounds 2 and 3 resume Friday night at 7 p.m. ET on NFL Network, ABC and ESPN.

With Downs added to the roster, Dallas strengthens its secondary while adding a player widely regarded for both production and leadership.

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