Ohio State Star Caleb Downs Partners With NFL Brother Josh Downs to Inspire Communities and Make a Lasting Impact Beyond Football

Caleb Downs has already made headlines as one of the brightest young stars in college football, but his latest move proves his ambitions stretch far beyond the gridiron. The Ohio State standout defensive back has joined forces with his older brother, Josh Downs, wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts, in a partnership rooted in family, purpose, and community upliftment. Together, they aim to leverage their platforms and shared experiences to inspire young people, give back to underserved communities, and create a legacy that transcends athletic accolades.

For Caleb Downs, the mission is personal. As one of the most sought-after recruits in recent years, his transition to Ohio State was about more than just competing at the highest level; it was about positioning himself to make a difference. “Football has given me so many opportunities, but I’ve always believed what you do off the field matters just as much,” Caleb shared in a recent interview. “Watching my brother navigate the NFL, stay true to who he is, and use his voice for good showed me the blueprint.”

Josh Downs, now entering his second season with the Colts, has already been active in philanthropic circles, with initiatives ranging from youth mentorship to mental health awareness. His partnership with Caleb isn’t a spur-of-the-moment collaboration but a continuation of values instilled by their family long before either brother caught a touchdown or made a game-saving tackle. “We were raised to believe that success isn’t just measured by stats,” Josh explained. “It’s about how you lift others up, especially those who may not have the same opportunities.”

The Downs brothers recently launched the “Beyond the Game Initiative,” a multifaceted outreach program aimed at empowering young athletes and underserved youth in Columbus, Indianapolis, and their hometown of Suwanee, Georgia. The program focuses on academic support, mental wellness, leadership development, and financial literacy—areas often overlooked in traditional athletic circles but essential for long-term success.

The initiative kicked off with a youth football and life skills camp held on Ohio State’s campus, drawing hundreds of participants from across the Midwest. But unlike conventional camps that strictly focus on drills and competition, the Downs brothers emphasized classroom sessions, mental health resources, and conversations about navigating adversity. Guest speakers included educators, mental health advocates, and former athletes who shared real-world challenges beyond sports.

For Caleb, hosting the event at Ohio State was symbolic. “Being here at Ohio State, where excellence is expected on and off the field, made it the perfect place to start,” he said. “We wanted to create an environment where kids felt seen, supported, and reminded that they’re more than just athletes.”

The response was overwhelming. Parents praised the holistic approach, while young participants left not only with improved skills but also a renewed sense of self-worth and direction. But this is just the beginning. The Downs brothers have outlined plans to expand their efforts to Indianapolis this fall, partnering with local schools, nonprofits, and community organizations to provide mentorship and resources.

Their unique bond fuels their shared vision. Despite the age difference—Josh being the older sibling and now a professional athlete—the brothers maintain a relationship built on mutual respect and unwavering support. Growing up, they pushed each other to excel, whether in backyard games or schoolwork, a dynamic that shaped their current trajectories.

Caleb’s rise at Ohio State has been meteoric. Widely regarded as one of the best safeties in college football, his combination of athleticism, football IQ, and leadership has made him a key figure in the Buckeyes’ defensive scheme. His decision to partner with Josh in community work reflects a maturity beyond his years.

“I’ve always looked up to Josh, not just for what he’s done on the field but how he carries himself off it,” Caleb said. “He’s never forgotten where we came from, and that motivates me to stay grounded and give back.”

Josh, meanwhile, sees his brother’s platform as an extension of their family’s values. “Caleb’s at a place like Ohio State, where eyes are on him every day. That spotlight brings responsibility, and I’m proud of how he’s using it,” Josh noted. “We’ve both seen the impact athletes can have beyond sports, and it’s on us to be intentional about that.”

Their father, Gary Downs, a former NFL running back, and their mother, Dr. Tanya Downs, an educator, have long emphasized the importance of humility, education, and service. That foundation continues to guide both brothers as they navigate the challenges and privileges of elite athletics.

Beyond camps and workshops, the “Beyond the Game Initiative” is set to launch scholarship programs, community service projects, and partnerships with local mental health organizations. The goal isn’t just short-term impact but fostering generational change.

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has praised Caleb for his leadership both within the team and in the community. “Caleb’s a special young man,” Day said. “He’s one of the hardest workers on our roster, but what impresses me most is his heart for others. Teaming up with his brother to give back shows the kind of character he has.”

Fans, too, have rallied behind the brothers’ mission. Social media has been flooded with messages of support, with many Buckeye and Colts supporters applauding the initiative’s focus on mental health—a topic gaining overdue attention in athletics.

The Downs brothers acknowledge that the work won’t always be easy, but their shared vision keeps them grounded. As Caleb prepares for another demanding season with Ohio State, and Josh gears up for what could be a breakout year in Indianapolis, both remain committed to balancing their professional goals with their community aspirations.

“It’s about legacy,” Caleb concluded. “Football’s going to end one day, but the lives we touch, the doors we help open—that lasts forever.”

Indeed, their partnership is a reminder that while talent can open doors, purpose and unity can transform communities. Through their efforts, Caleb and Josh Downs are proving that true success lies not only in championships or contracts but in the positive, lasting impact left on others. Their story is still being written, but already, the Downs name carries with it not just athletic excellence, but a powerful commitment to making the world a better place, one life at a time.