
Former TCU safety whose edge was special-teams grit and reliability
Michael Downing Jr.’s TCU profile is defined less by flashy ball production and more by dependable, high-effort football: he lettered three seasons at safety, was a walk-on who earned a scholarship, and led the Big 12 in special teams tackles in 2016 with 13, a strong indicator of toughness and motor. He also recorded one career interception, which fits the mold of a steady, physical contributor rather than a gambler. If you value discipline, willingness to embrace dirty work, and a player who carved out a role through effort, he’s your kind of guy.