The transition from high school star to college standout is a journey that resonates with any college football fan. In a move with both on-field and symbolic implications, safety Caleb Downs revealed his decision to transfer to Ohio State, departing from Alabama following the retirement of Nick Saban. 

This departure compounds the challenges for new Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer, who has seen multiple players capitalize on the NCAA rule allowing transfers within 30 days of a coaching change. Among these departures, Downs, Alabama’s leading tackler in his freshman year and an All-SEC team selection, stands out as the most significant loss.

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Caleb Downs, the former standout DB for the Alabama Crimson Tide from Mill Creek High School in Hoschton, Georgia, earned the All-American Bowl Player of the Year title in his senior year. Planning to major in business, Downs also played varsity basketball in high school. Downs was born into a sports-centric family, Caleb’s father, Gary Downs, was an NFL running back, and his older brother, Joshua Downs, is a receiver at North Carolina. 

Caleb Downs holds multiple records 

In the 2023 college football recruiting class, Caleb Downs was highly ranked, choosing Alabama over other top programs like Ohio State, Clemson, Georgia, and Notre Dame. Recognized as the Defensive Football Player of the Year by USA Today in July 2023, Downs made a notable debut with eight tackles and finished the season with an impressive 95 tackles, including 35 assists and 60 solo tackles. His contributions featured three interceptions, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

Caleb Downs picks Ohio State over the Georgia Bulldogs

Choosing Ohio State over other top programs, including the Georgia Bulldogs, former Alabama defensive back Caleb Downs surprised many by opting for the Buckeyes. Despite initial expectations of returning to his hometown state with Georgia, Downs, who led the Crimson Tide in tackles as a freshman, was swayed by Ohio State. Speculation about a $3.5 million payment arose, but sources suggest his decision was rooted in a desire to be at Ohio State. 

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According to People Ai, as of January 2024, Caleb Downs’ net worth is 11 million dollars, however, the real reason behind his choice seems to be the superior apartment size offered by OSU. The Ohio State coaching staff capitalized on this opportunity, securing his commitment after an in-home visit. Regarded as the top player in the transfer portal, his decision enhances the Buckeyes’ roster and sparks speculation in college football circles, marking another significant departure from Alabama’s post-coaching changes.

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