2026 NFL Draft safety guide: Big nickels, deep safeties, and do-it-all playmakers

Similar to the wide receivers class, this year’s safeties class isn’t top-heavy, but it’s deep with players who fit specific roles. Caleb Downs is a blue-chip talent in my eyes and for many evaluators, but I’ve talked to coaches who didn’t think he was a top-10 pick because of the lack of splash plays and high-end athleticism. So, he’s not a consensus top-10 prospect. There is a group of raw safeties who need development but offer high ceilings.Advertisement