Georgia, Ohio State Programs head-locked on Alabama’s 5-star Defensive Back Transfer Caleb Downs.
Amidst a turbulent period for the Alabama football program, new coach Kalen DeBoer faced challenging developments within his staff on Wednesday. Two integral starters from the 2023 College Football Playoff semifinalist team, offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor and freshman All-American safety Caleb Downs, entered the transfer portal, marking significant changes. Notably, a total of 28 Alabama players have entered the transfer portal during this offseason.
As of Thursday, Caleb Downs has ascended to the unanimous top spot in the transfer portal rankings across major recruiting services, including ESPN, On3, Rivals, and 247Sports. This recognition is well-deserved, considering his standout performance as one of Alabama’s key defenders in his true freshman year, contributing 107 total tackles and two interceptions in 2023.
Reports indicate that Georgia and Ohio State are prominent contenders in the recruitment of Caleb Downs. The Bulldogs, with the recent addition of Crimson Tide defensive backs coach Travaris Robinson to Kirby Smart’s staff, are considered logical favorites. Ohio State, along with Notre Dame, was also a finalist for Downs during his high school recruitment.
Gary Downs, Caleb’s father and the running backs coach at East Tennessee State, mentioned to 247 that his son is expected to make a decision within 48 hours, emphasizing the desire for stability in coaching staff and relationships.
Amidst the ongoing staff overhaul following Nick Saban’s retirement and DeBoer’s subsequent hiring, Gary Downs described Alabama as essentially a new football program. Despite these changes, he affirmed that the family has no regrets about Caleb spending the 2023 season in Tuscaloosa, even considering the anticipated retirement of Saban. According to Gary Downs, Saban’s influence, football wisdom, and coaching philosophy played a pivotal role in Caleb’s decision to play for Alabama.
