Matt Miller's favorite pick of 2026 NFL Draft belongs to Cowboys
ClutchPoints
Last updated: April 30, 2026
ESPN analyst Matt Miller has identified Caleb Downs as the top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, following the 2024 draft. The Dallas Cowboys, who do not possess a first-round pick in the 2025 draft, are among the teams that will be closely watching the development of top college prospects for future drafts.
- Caleb Downs, a safety, has been ranked as the No. 1 player in Miller's post-2024 draft assessment of the top 100 prospects for 2026. This projection highlights his potential impact at the professional level.
- While the article focuses on Miller's ranking, it implies that other teams will also be evaluating these emerging talents for their future draft strategies. The Cowboys' lack of a 2025 first-round pick emphasizes the long-term planning involved in NFL team building through the draft.
- The ranking of Downs underscores the importance of defensive backs in the modern NFL, with safeties often being critical components of a team's secondary. His designation as the top prospect suggests a blend of athleticism, football IQ, and potential for significant contribution.
- Miller's analysis provides an early benchmark for evaluating future draft-eligible players, offering a glimpse into the potential landscape of the 2026 NFL Draft.
