In January 2024, the college football world was stunned by the unexpected retirement of legendary Alabama head coach Nick Saban. Among those most affected was freshman safety Caleb Downs, who had just completed a standout season with the Crimson Tide. Downs, who led Alabama with 107 tackles and secured two interceptions during his freshman year, found himself at a crossroads following Saban’s departure.
Reflecting on the moment Saban announced his retirement, Downs recalled his shock and disbelief. “That came as a huge shock to me,” he said. “I didn’t see it coming at all, and even when he said it, I was still like, did this really just happen, because that was one of the main reasons I went there to Alabama.”
In the wake of Saban’s retirement, Alabama players were granted a 30-day window to enter the transfer portal. Despite his initial inclination to stay, Downs took time to assess the situation, hoping to see who would be appointed as the new head coach. “I didn’t know right away that I was going to hit the portal,” Downs explained. “I tried to give every opportunity to stay. I stayed for like an extra six days, five days, just to feel out the new coaching staff, see who they were going to hire and see if I could stay, because at that time I didn’t really want to leave.”
Ultimately, Downs decided to enter the transfer portal on January 17, 2024, joining a significant exodus of players from Alabama. He committed to Ohio State, where he became a key component of the Buckeyes’ defense. In his first season with Ohio State, Downs earned unanimous All-American honors and helped lead the team to a national championship appearance against Notre Dame.
Despite his successful transition, Downs still reflects on his time at Alabama and the impact of Saban’s leadership. “He was committed every single day to being his best self,” Downs said of Saban. “Not many people can say that and be truthful with that. He was the same person every single day. Taught me a lot about commitment, being disciplined and consistency. Everything that goes with that and being great. That’s what he embodies.”
As Downs prepares for the national championship game with Ohio State, he carries with him the lessons learned under Saban’s tutelage, applying them to his new role and striving for excellence on the field.
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