Giants' Harbaugh Praises Ohio State Safety Ahead of NFL Draft

Head coach's comments on Caleb Downs raise speculation about Giants' top pick

Feb. 27, 2026 at 5:39pm

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In a recent podcast interview, new Giants head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed high praise for Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, calling him a potential future Hall of Famer. Harbaugh's comments have fueled speculation that the Giants, who hold the 5th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, could target Downs with their first-round selection.

Why it matters

The Giants have a need at safety, with Jevon Holland, Tyler Nubin, and Dane Belton all facing uncertain futures. Harbaugh's history of drafting and developing elite safeties, such as Ed Reed and Kyle Hamilton, suggests he values the position highly. Downs' potential to become a difference-maker in the secondary could make him an attractive option for the Giants with their top pick.

The details

Harbaugh, who is entering his first season as Giants head coach, acknowledged that the 5th overall pick will be the highest he's ever had as a head coach. He noted that the only time he's been associated with a higher draft pick was when he was an assistant with the Eagles and they selected Donovan McNabb 2nd overall in 1999. Harbaugh praised Downs, saying "We favor 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."

  • Harbaugh made the comments on the 'Mike Francesa Podcast' in February 2026, just over two months before the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Jim Harbaugh

The new head coach of the New York Giants, who is entering his first season with the team after a successful tenure with the Baltimore Ravens.

Caleb Downs

A safety prospect from Ohio State University who is projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“We favor 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.”

— Jim Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

What’s next

The Giants will continue their pre-draft evaluation process, with Downs likely being one of the top prospects they consider with the 5th overall pick. The team's final decision will be made closer to the draft in April.

The takeaway

Harbaugh's high praise for Downs suggests the Giants could prioritize upgrading their secondary with a potential star safety in the upcoming draft. The team's decision will be closely watched, as their first-round pick could set the tone for the rest of their offseason as they look to build a contender under their new head coach.