On3 5-star Countdown: No. 13, safety Caleb Downs

With the 2022 recruiting cycle all but wrapped up for most of the nation’s top programs, the recruiting world has turned its eyes toward the class of 2023.

With a bevy of notable quarterbacks, a geographic diversity among the nation’s top players and plenty of other notable storylines, the 2023 cycle is shaping up to be one of the most interesting in recent memory.

And, per usual, the players at the top of the class will be among the most highly-recruited in the nation. The latest edition of On3’s 2023 rankings features 14 players with a coveted five-star rating, up from a previous 11 five-star players. Next up on the countdown is the No. 13 overall prospect in the 2023 cycle, safety Caleb Downs of Hoschton (Ga.) Mill Creek.

Caleb Downs Scouting Summary

“Extremely well-rounded safety who has been one of the top prospects in Georgia regardless of class for much of his high school career. Shows a complete skill set as a cover safety. Has the range to cover hash to boundary with ease. Also is fluid and natural in man coverage. Outstanding ball production with 14 interceptions over the first three seasons of his high school career. Instinctual both in coverage and as a cover down defender. Identifies run plays and underneath passes very quickly. Also an active tackler. Shows of his athleticism on offense where he sees snaps at multiple skill positions, including quarterback. Has starred while playing against top competition in the Peach State. Comes from strong bloodlines with a father who was an NFL Draft pick and brother who is one of the better receivers in college football.” — Charles Power, On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings