What Cowboys just did with Caleb Downs has everyone talking before minicamp
The Dallas Cowboys have signed 2026 first-round draft pick Caleb Downs to a fully guaranteed four-year, $28.9 million contract. The team is counting on the rookie safety to immediately improve their struggling defense, which allowed the most points per game in the league in 2025. Downs, a versatile defensive back from Alabama and Ohio State, is expected to start and participate fully in offseason activities.
- ▪Caleb Downs was selected 11th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft after playing college football at Alabama and Ohio State.
- ▪The Cowboys signed Downs to a fully guaranteed four-year deal worth approximately $28.9 million, in line with the NFL's rookie wage scale.
- ▪Downs is expected to be an immediate starter and help fix the Cowboys' secondary, which gave up a league-high 30.1 points per game in 2025.
- ▪The contract includes a fifth-year team option, providing Dallas with future flexibility and cost control.
- ▪Downs' signing allows him to fully participate in minicamp and offseason programs without delay.
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