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Caleb Downs addresses transfer, selecting Ohio State over Georgia
By Paul Harvey
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Caleb Downs is lining up for a major season at Ohio State, transferring away from Alabama following Nick Saban’s retirement.
Traditionally, few players who have made the impact Downs had in Tuscaloosa opt to leave the program via the transfer portal. Saban’s retirement ultimately changed things for the Crimson Tide, and Downs said Tuesday it was simply about doing what was best for his career.
“I just felt like it was the best decision for me. At the end of the day, everybody has to do what they need to do for themselves, and I think that’s evident,” said Downs at his first media appearance in Columbus.
As for landing on the Buckeyes, Downs said the impact of the coaching staff played a big role, as did his belief in Ryan Day to get things done:
“I just love the program here, I love Coach (Tim) Walton and what the people had to say around here,” Downs explained. “I believe in Coach Day and I believe in this team.”
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Downs went on to admit the way Ohio State’s defense looked last season under Jim Knowles influenced his transfer. The Buckeyes pursued Downs out of high school, but the safety felt he had a better idea of what the defense will look like after watching the 2023 film.
“They played great defense last year and just watching the film and seeing how they progressed and seeing how the defense played last year, it definitely helped me make a more sound decision and having more facts about what I would be getting into,” Downs said.
As for the interest in Georgia, Downs admitted there was “some back and forth” leading up to his final decision as he and his family processed his next move. In the end, there wasn’t much to say other than committing to the Buckeyes and moving forward.
“There was definitely some back and forth. There was a lot to think about, a lot to process between me and my family so there wasn’t really much to say to the media or anything,” Downs clarified. “At the end of the day, I made the decision and I’m here so I’m glad to be here.”
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
