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December 6, 2025: Ohio State Buckeyes defensive back Caleb Downs 2 during introductions before the NCAA, College League, USA Big Ten Championship football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Indiana Hoosiers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. /CSM. Indianapolis United States of America - ZUMAc04_ 20251206_zma_c04_497 Copyright: xDarrenxLeex
Apr 23, 2026, 8:00 PM CUT
Caleb Downs Shares Emotional Army Veteran Grandfather Story Before NFL Draft
When any NFL Franchise drafts Caleb Downs in the 2026 NFL Draft, the safety will be carrying history, as he will be the third member of his family to be drafted in the NFL.
Before his induction in the NFL, he has made sure to remember the legacy he has inherited. The Ohio State Buckeyes' safety has talked about the impact his grandfather had on him and his family, while also discussing his partnership with USAA.
"I feel like everything my grandfather instilled in us – consistency, discipline, hard work, and everything like that – that’s why we’re here today," Downs said.
"I remember times we would go to my aunt’s house, and my dad would race my uncle down the street and stuff like that as a kid," Downs concluded.
Downs' grandfather, Gary Downs Sr., was an Army veteran. He retired from the Army on July 1, 1998. He served 23 years as a Jump Master stationed in the U.S., Germany, and South Korea.
Downs further talked about how he had a competitive feeling while growing up and how that feeling is still with him. He even pointed that out as the reason why he is where he is. Similar to Caleb, his grandfather is also proud of him.
Talking about his emotions about his grandson's getting drafted, he said, "Caleb was just so excited to do this – my heart, I’m drowning in tears."
When he gets drafted into the NFL, Downs will join his elder brother Josh in the league as well.
Caleb Downs Is Excited To Join Josh In the NFL
Caleb is happy to see his brother find success in the NFL. The Indianapolis Colts drafted Downs with the 79th pick in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Downs recorded 198 catches for 2,140 yards and scored 11 touchdowns in his last two years with the Colts. Caleb discussed that moment when they’ll play each in the league.
"Oh, it’s definitely been thought about. I’ve played against him one time before in high school. I’ll have to get my get-back because he beat us pretty bad my freshman year of high school," Downs said.
Caleb was talking about the game when Josh's team beat his team with an embarassing score of 42-3.
Downs getting drafted is not a big question. However, he looks forward to get drafted in a team that will give him the chance to take revenge against his brother.
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Written by

Reyansh Dubey
Edited by
Rishab Nandi