John Harbaugh, the new head coach of the New York Giants, has spoken warmly about Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, just months ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The 63-year-old NFL veteran’s praise for Downs has sparked speculation about the Giants’ plans for the No. 5 overall pick, although Harbaugh is quick to caution fans not to read too much into it.
What Did John Harbaugh Say About Caleb Downs?
Harbaugh appeared on the Mike Francesa Podcast last week and called himself a “big fan” of Downs. “We favour Hall of Fame safeties, so if we have a chance to draft a potential future Hall of Fame safety in Caleb Downs, that would be just fine with me,” he said.
Jim Harbaugh has high praise for Ohio State safety with NFL draft on horizon Did John Harbaugh clue the world into who the Giants will take with the No. 5 pick in the draft? Of course not. But he might have provided a tiny hint. pic.twitter.com/rkt7QjpHMM
— NahBabyNah (@NahBabyNahNah) February 20, 2026
He stressed that, at this stage, the Giants will pick “the best player, not a need pick.” However, the fact that safety is a weak spot for the Giants does make Downs’ selection more appealing.
How Does Harbaugh’s Draft History Support This Choice?
Harbaugh has a strong track record of valuing defensive backs. During his 18-year tenure with the Baltimore Ravens, he coached Ed Reed, a nine-time Pro Bowler and five-time first-team All-Pro safety.
More recently, the Ravens used a first-round pick in 2022 on Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton, who has already earned three Pro Bowl nods and two first-team All-Pro selections.
Harbaugh’s previous experience also includes coaching the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive backs, working with Brian Dawkins, another safety-turned-Hall-of-Fame. His history suggests he knows the impact a top-tier safety can have on a team.
| Year | Team | First-Round Safety Pick | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Baltimore Ravens | Kyle Hamilton | 3× Pro Bowl, 2× First-Team All-Pro |
| 1999 | Philadelphia Eagles | Donovan McNabb (QB) | NFL Pro Bowler |
| 2000 | Philadelphia Eagles | Corey Simon (DT) | Solid starter |
Why Does the Giants’ Defence Need a Safety?
The Giants have struggled in the secondary. Jevon Holland, who signed on a three-year, £37.5m contract, failed to make a big impact last season.
Tyler Nubin, a 2024 second-round pick, is coming off a lukewarm sophomore season, and Dane Belton will become a free agent soon.
Adding a top safety like Caleb Downs could fill a crucial defensive gap and potentially transform the Giants’ backfield.
Could This Be a Hint About the No. 5 Pick?
While Harbaugh’s comments are suggestive, they are far from a confirmation. Other positions the Giants may target include wide receiver, linebacker, or offensive tackle, depending on the outcomes of free agency. Notably, the team is not in the quarterback market this year.
Still, with Downs projected as a top-five pick by many analysts, his combination of talent and Harbaugh’s endorsement certainly strengthens his case.
