Caleb Downs' Dad Speaks on Cowboys' No. 2 Controversy

The Jersey Number Controversy

When Dallas Cowboys rookie safety Caleb Downs stepped onto the field during minicamp last week, it was a promising sight for fans of the team's struggling defense. Wearing his navy blue jersey and the star on his helmet, the Ohio State standout looked like he belonged in his new environment. However, there was something that caught the attention of many observers—Downs was wearing No. 18.

This was unexpected, as Downs had previously worn No. 2 at Ohio State and even at Alabama when he played as a freshman for the Crimson Tide. He had also been No. 2 in high school. Seeing him in No. 18 raised some eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

It turns out that No. 2 had already been claimed by Cobie Durant, the cornerback who joined the Cowboys from the Rams in free agency. Since Durant was already using No. 2, Downs had to settle for No. 18, much to the dismay of his mother and others.

A Podcast’s Take on the Issue

“The Love of the Star” podcast host Zack Wolchuk has taken notice of this situation and is making it a point to address it every episode. Wolchuk said he will continue to push for Durant to give up No. 2 so that Caleb Downs can have it. He described this as a “Drop the Deuce” campaign, urging Durant to do the right thing and hand over the number to Downs.

This has sparked a conversation about jersey numbers and how they are perceived within the NFL. It also highlights the importance of team dynamics and respect for other players' choices.

Caleb Downs’ Father Speaks Out

On Thursday, Gary Downs, Caleb's father, appeared on the “DLLS Cowboys” podcast and addressed the issue of his son eventually getting the No. 2 jersey. He explained that for now, Caleb is wearing No. 13 during OTAs, but the No. 2 jersey is still a work in progress.

Gary Downs shared that Caleb understands the significance of the number but emphasized that it is not the main focus for his son. "He knows that is not the main thing," Gary said. "He is going to play the same regardless. When it comes to ball, it is going to be about football, it is not going to be about social media, it is not going to be about his marketing, and it is not going to be about a number."

He added that Caleb is a team-builder and understands that if someone else has the number, he won't just take it away. "If that player gets traded or cut, it's what it is," Gary said.

Caleb Downs’ Frugal Nature

Gary also revealed that while Caleb wants No. 2, he is not likely to pay money to get it. He described his son as being very frugal with his resources and money. "He is tight with his money, he saves his money, he is just not like that, man," Gary said.

He added that if the number is available for free, Caleb would take it. "Free or cheap. If it’s free, take 3. I am not saying Caleb is that bad but he is very frugal. But it is not the main thing."

Gary also mentioned that his wife, Caleb’s mother, is serious about him getting No. 2. However, Caleb seems more focused on proving himself on the field than on the number itself. "He is like, ‘Mom, that don’t matter.’"

The Bigger Picture

While the jersey number controversy may seem trivial, it reflects the larger challenges that come with joining a new team. For Caleb Downs, the focus remains on performance and proving himself on the field. As he continues to adjust to his new surroundings, the number on his jersey is just one small part of his journey.

The situation also highlights the importance of communication and respect between teammates. While the desire for a specific number is understandable, it is ultimately up to the players and the organization to find a solution that works for everyone involved.