Title: Alabama Safety Caleb Downs Enters NCAA Transfer Portal After Nick Saban’s Retirement
In a surprising turn of events, Alabama safety Caleb Downs has decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal following the retirement of head coach Nick Saban. Downs, who had an exceptional freshman season, played a crucial role in leading the Crimson Tide to an SEC Championship win and a College Football Playoff appearance.
During his first season, Downs showcased his incredible talent by recording an impressive 107 tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. His stellar performances on the field have earned him recognition as the top player in the transfer portal, according to 247Sports.
Despite having three years of eligibility at his next school, Downs is expected to enter the 2026 NFL Draft before completing his collegiate career. This decision did not come lightly for him, as his father revealed. Before finalizing his transfer, Downs attended a meeting with new head coach Kalen DeBoer, indicating his commitment to exploring his options.
Downs initially chose Alabama due to the coaching staff, but with many of those coaches having departed, he is now seeking stability and a coaching staff with previous relationships. He plans to make a decision on his new school within the next 48 hours, considering top contenders such as Georgia, Notre Dame, and Ohio State, which were finalists during his high school recruitment process.
Known for his versatility, Downs played multiple positions in the Alabama secondary and even showcased his skills as a punt returner during his freshman season. He aspires to continue contributing in a versatile role at his next school, bringing both on-field ability and leadership to his new team.
The Downs family has a strong football pedigree, with Caleb’s father, Gary, having played in the NFL, and his older brother, Josh, currently playing as a receiver for the Indianapolis Colts. Caleb himself had a highly successful high school career, winning a state championship and finishing with impressive stats.
As the college football community eagerly awaits Caleb Downs’ decision, many teams are vying to secure the talents of this promising safety. The only certainty is that Downs will make an impact both on and off the field wherever he goes, aiming for further success in his football journey.
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