2025 Preseason Herbie Awards: Caleb Downs wins Ultimate Herbie

During his Herbie Awards show, Kirk Herbstreit’s highest honor is the Ultimate Herbie award. This year, the 2025 preseason honor went to Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.

Downs emerged as a leader on the Buckeyes defense last year, helping the program win its first national championship under head coach Ryan Day. A former Alabama transfer, he’s also generating buzz as a highly rated NFL Draft selection.

Between his on-field and leadership abilities, Downs will be the centerpiece of Ohio State’s unit this year. He’s also Herbstreit’s winner of the Ultimate Herbie award.

This story will be updated.