Downs Ditches No. 18: Cowboys Safety Settles on No. 13

Dallas Cowboys rookie Caleb Downs, acquired via a trade-up in the 2026 NFL Draft, has become a focal point of fan discussion due to his jersey number. Downs, initially sporting No. 18 during rookie minicamp, has since transitioned to No. 13. This change comes as fans express a strong preference for him to wear No. 2, a number currently assigned to new free agent signee Cobie Durant.

Downs recently discussed his jersey number decision with his brother, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs. He revealed that the No. 18 was never a serious consideration, citing its association with players like Peyton Manning and Malachi Moore. A Colts equipment manager even advised Josh to urge Caleb against wearing No. 18. While a deal for No. 2 remains a possibility, Downs appears content with No. 13 for now, with the understanding that his on-field performance will ultimately define his impact for the Cowboys' secondary, which is looking to improve after ranking last in pass defense last season. Downs is set to participate in organized team activities starting June 1.