REACTION: Caleb Downs Commits to Ohio State, What it Means for Georgia
Georgia has been highly active in the transfer portal this season as they have landed some big-time names on both sides of the football, but the biggest name of them all just announced his commitment to the Buckeyes. Former Alabama defensive back Caleb Downs has officially announced his transfer to Ohio State, so what does it mean for Georgia?
For starters, Georgia's safety room took some hits this offseason as Javon Bullard and Tykee Smith both announced they are headed off to the NFL. However, Georgia is still in a good spot roster wise. They return Malaki Starks, a two-year starter and what many presume to be a potential first-round NFL draft pick in the future. They also still have names like David Daniel-Sisavanh, JaCorey Thomas, Dan Jackson and recently picked up former Alabama safety Jake Pope out of the portal. The Bulldogs also picked up another big time name in the 2024 recruiting class at safety as five-star KJ Bolden flipped to Georgia on early national signing day.
Dec 2, 2023; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart embraces Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Caleb Downs (2) after the SEC championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Downs would have certainly upgraded Georgia's roster had he chosen the Bulldogs and bought more time for other players to develop before they were tabbed as starters, but Downs' decision does not leave the Bulldogs stranded. Georgia was going to have a new face in the starting lineup at safety in 2024 regardless of whether Downs committed to them or not. Downs would have been the favorite to land the starting gig but that question will now be answered in the form of someone who was already on Georgia's roster.
As a true freshman for the Crimson Tide, Downs racked up 107 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and two interceptions. He was also awarded the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year award and received All-American recognition by multiple outlets.
Other Georgia News:
- REPORT: EA Sports Plans Release Date For NCAA College Football Game
- Former Georgia Bulldogs Showed Out During NFL Wild Card Weekend
- Georgia Bulldogs Could Surpass 2023 Totals in This Year's NFL Draft
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