The Ohio State Buckeyes are going to undergo some interesting transitions next season. Despite wide receiver Jeremiah Smith's reassurance that he would stay in Columbus, wide receiver Carnell Tate also announced his intention to declare for the draft Tuesday night.
Wednesday afternoon also saw the next leg of the journey as Buckeyes safety Caleb Downs took to social media to say he, too, plans to forego his final year of collegiate eligibility and declare for the NFL Draft.
In a heartfelt post, Downs finalized his decision – he is now three months away from realizing his NFL dreams.
"Wearing the Scarlet and Gray means committing to excellence and chasing the ultimate goal," Downs' message read. "Being part of a team that brought a national championship home is something I will always be proud of. Competing for Ohio State these past two years, alongside my teammates, and upholding this tradition has been one of the greatest honors of my life."
In those two seasons in Columbus after transferring from the Alabama Crimson Tide, Downs quickly became a breakout star at Ohio State. This past year, however, was arguably a coming-out party for the Georgia native. He accumulated 45 tackles, including two interceptions and two forced fumble recoveries.
Downs, though, was far from done thanking those who made him the player he is today.
"I'm thankful for every coach who invested and believed in me," Downs said. "Coach Day, Coach Walton, Coach Guerrieri, Coach Patricia, Coach Saban and Coach T-Rob, thank you for the trust, the lessons and the standard you demanded each day."
Downs said he is excited for the next step in the journey and knows those whipping close to him since day one will remain in his corner.
And to my brotherhood, appreciate the bonds made and memories shared.To Buckeye fans and the entire Ohio State community, thank you for the pride, passion and support that make this place special. After a lot of prayer and reflection, I have decided to declare for the NFL Draft. I'm grateful for this chapter and proud to forever be a Buckeye. Part III Loading... Caleb Downs."
Before Downs made his decision, coach Ryan Day spoke about what he meant to Ohio State.
"What Caleb Downs has done for Ohio State and does every day, most of it you see is on the field, but what I see is off the field. He's a special young man who has done a lot for this program," Day said. "I'll forever be indebted for what he's done for us. Not only his play but what he stands for off the field, who he is."
It's safe to assume Downs is going to be greatly missed next season.