The Dallas Cowboys needed defense, and boy, they sure got it. The offseason featured a haul of defenders, including Rashan Gary, Malachi Lawrence, Jalen Thompson and P.J. Locke. Then, the Cowboys drafted arguably the best talent on draft night, safety Caleb Downs.
Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker is reminding the NFL that Downs isn't going to be your typical rookie. It only took four words to remind fans that he was going to be the real deal this season (h/t Abby Jones). NFL fans, you need to be ready.
"He is as advertised."Christian Parker on Caleb Downs
Christian Parker's message on Caleb Downs should scare NFL offenses
Many thought that Downs would be taken in the top 10 because of his talent, but positional value still mattered to NFL general managers. It also helped that teams had other needs than safety. The New York Giants had two chances to pick Downs, and with John Harbaugh historically turning water into wine with safeties, it seemed like the right pick.
The Cowboys saw their moment and seized it. Since then, Downs has been crowned as an immediate impact, and even picked for Defensive Rookie of the Year, and that's not too crazy to think.
Downs is likely to wear many hats as the Cowboys' safety and play nickel cornerback more often than anything else. Parker also said the rookie is communicating well, which is key for any defender to become a true leader one day.
There's speculation on who will wear the green dot on defense this season. That player is responsible for listening to the coaches' play calls and communicating with his teammates. Former Cowboys safety George Teague said not to rush Downs, as he may be ready to take on the responsibility one day, but not today.
There's no doubt that Downs has talent, breaking up passes in coverage and tackling his opponents in an instant. He's even gotten some reps on special teams this offseason, but that's nothing more than experimenting with what he can do.
We don't want to put too much pressure on him, but on the other hand, he could be the face of the Cowboys in the next few years. If he contributes to one-fifth of what his NFL ceiling is in his rookie season, the Cowboys are in great shape to have a true defensive leader.
Parker is a respected name in the coaching industry, about to get his first break as an NFL defensive coordinator, and if he's saying he's just as advertised, the NFL better get ready for this kid.
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