Caleb Ransaw

Summary

Caleb Ransaw was selected in the 3rd Round (#88 Overall) in the 2025 Draft out of Tulane University. Ransaw is a tough, versatile defensive back with physical tools, demonstrated run-support ability, and a profile that fits modern nickel/slot usage. His standout qualities are his willingness to tackle, versatility across defensive roles, and solid ball skills for his background. His primary challenges lie in proving he can consistently handle elite receiver match-ups in man coverage, make plays on the ball at the highest level, and settle into a defined role. With the right scheme and development, he has the foundation to become a reliable NFL starter.

Strengths

• Physicality & Run-Support Ability
  Ransaw’s profile shows that he plays with toughness and doesn’t shy away from contact. His tackle numbers—especially his run-stop metrics—indicate that he’s willing and able to support the run game. Tulane University Athletics

• Versatility in the Secondary
  He has experience lining up in different roles: outside corner, box defender, and hybrid slot/“big nickel” coverage. This flexibility gives him value in multiple packages. Big Cat Country

• Athletic Profile & Ball Skills
  While chasing ball skills, Ransaw has shown good instincts for an interception (including one in the Senior Bowl) and solid pass-deflection numbers. His physical attributes—6-0 size, good enough speed—give him a foundation to build upon.

• Tackling Efficiency
  At Troy, his coverage snap data indicated a low missed tackle rate and he showed efficiency in his roles. Troy University Athletics

Weaknesses

• Coverage in Man/Elite Speed Match­ups
  Scouts flagged that while Ransaw is solid in zone or as a big nickel, his man-coverage consistency—especially against fast slot receivers or vertical threats—was less proven. Big Cat Country

• Anticipation & Ball-Production Floor
  Despite his physical tools, his interception and pass‐breakup counts are modest for a corner attributed as a play-maker. Some evaluations noted he could improve his play recognition and anticipation. Big Cat Country

• Modern Slot Depth / NFL Conversion
  Given his college background and role diversification, there remains uncertainty about where he best fits in the pros: outside, slot, or safety. This lack of defined role could hamper early development. Big Cat Country

• Top-end Coverage Speed & Length vs. Elite Receivers
  Though sized well, at 6′0″ and ~196 lbs he’s not the biggest or longest corner, and some matchups may exploit that, especially in press-release or boundary alignments.

• Durability and injury concerns
  The Jaguars were looking forward to Ransaw taking over their starting free safety spot away from incumbent Andrew Wingard, but a season-ending foot injury in preseason put those plans to bed. Ransaw needs to prove he can be healthy and available in 2026 above all else.

Fit & Outlook

Ransaw projects best as a hybrid defensive back—someone who can move into box coverage, play as a nickel/slot defender, or back out into zone alignments. In a scheme that uses sub-packages and values versatility such as Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile’s, he can be impactful early. If Ransaw develops his man-coverage abilities and refines his play recognition, his ceiling is as a starting multi-role cornerback capable of handling nickel duties and contributing on the outside. If he struggles in man or against faster receivers, his floor is a strong rotational piece and special-teams contributor.