Caleb Ransaw Tulane S: Rising Star in Green Wave Secondary
Caleb Ransaw has emerged as one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in the Tulane program. The safety transferred to the Green Wave in January 2024, bringing with him an impressive resume of production. His combination of size, instincts, and versatility makes him a legitimate NFL prospect for the 2025 draft class.
Ransaw’s statistical profile speaks volumes about his impact on the field. During his previous stint, he appeared in all 14 games of the 2023 season, recording 51 tackles (28 solo), forcing a fumble, and snagging an interception. This production wasn’t a one-year wonder either – Ransaw has demonstrated consistent growth throughout his collegiate career, developing into the type of multi-dimensional defensive back that NFL teams covet.
What separates Ransaw from other safety prospects is his football IQ and ability to diagnose plays quickly. When watching his game highlights, you’ll notice how efficiently he flows to the ball, rarely taking false steps or getting caught out of position.
With the 2024 season approaching, all eyes will be on how Ransaw performs in Tulane’s defensive scheme as he looks to solidify his draft stock.
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Caleb Ransaw: Rising Star at Tulane
Caleb Ransaw has emerged as one of Tulane’s most promising defensive talents, combining exceptional athleticism with impressive on-field performance that has caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Early Years and Sparkman High School Legacy
Before making waves at the collegiate level, Ransaw built an impressive foundation at Sparkman High School in Harvest, Alabama. His natural speed and defensive instincts made him stand out among his peers on the football field.
At Sparkman, Ransaw demonstrated the athletic versatility that would later become his calling card. He excelled in multiple positions, though his skills in the secondary particularly impressed coaches and recruiters.
His high school career wasn’t just about raw talent — Ransaw showed remarkable football IQ, often anticipating plays before they developed.
By his senior year, he had established himself as one of the top defensive prospects in Alabama. His combination of speed, agility, and football intelligence made him a coveted recruit for programs looking to bolster their secondary.
Recruitment to Tulane University
Ransaw’s journey to Tulane wasn’t a straight line. He transferred to the Green Wave program, bringing valuable experience and immediately making an impact. In 2023, he appeared in all 14 games, racking up 51 tackles (28 solo), along with a forced fumble and an interception.
His athletic prowess became nationally recognized during the NFL Combine, where he ran a blazing 4.33-second 40-yard dash. Not just fast, Ransaw demonstrated explosive power with a 40-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot broad jump.
| Combine Stats | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’11” |
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.33 seconds |
| Vertical Jump | 40 inches |
| Broad Jump | 10 feet |
Ransaw’s impressive performances at Tulane’s 2025 Pro Day have further solidified his draft stock, with analysts projecting him as a mid-round selection with potential to rise based on his exceptional athleticism and growing skill set.
The Green Wave Impact
Caleb Ransaw has become a transformative force for Tulane’s defensive unit since arriving on campus. His exceptional athleticism and versatility have elevated the Green Wave’s secondary to new heights, making him one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in college football.
Contributions to the Team
Ransaw has quickly established himself as an essential piece of Tulane’s defensive puzzle. His ability to line up at multiple positions in the secondary gives the Green Wave defensive coordinator a chess piece that few teams possess.
The elite-caliber athlete excels in coverage while also showing a willingness to contribute in run support. His leadership extends beyond statistical contributions, as he’s become a vocal presence in the huddle.
During home games, Ransaw’s energy is palpable, often firing up the crowd before crucial third-down plays. His preparation and film study habits have rubbed off on younger defensive backs.
Key Team Contributions:
- Positional versatility (cornerback, nickel, safety)
- Leadership in secondary communication
- Special teams contributions
- Mentorship of younger defensive backs
Defensive Prowess
Ransaw’s defensive abilities have scouts drooling over his NFL potential. His combination of speed and instincts allows him to excel in various coverage schemes, whether playing man or zone.
The cornerback scored an unofficial 9.96 RAS out of 10.00, ranking him 10th out of 2,480 cornerbacks tested. These athletic metrics translate directly to the field where his closing speed regularly surprises quarterbacks.
One NFL scout described Ransaw as “a fast, aggressive outside cornerback who could even kick to safety if needed.” This versatility has him rapidly climbing draft boards for 2025.
| Defensive Metric | Ranking | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RAS Score (Relative Athletic Score) | 9.96/10.00 | 10th out of 2,480 CBs |
| 2025 Draft Projection | Rising | Potential Day 2 selection |
| Position Flexibility | Exceptional | CB/Nickel/Safety capabilities |
Statistical Highlights and Career Milestones
Caleb Ransaw has emerged as one of Tulane’s defensive stalwarts, compiling impressive statistics that have caught the attention of NFL scouts. His combination of speed and tackling ability has translated into measurable on-field production.
Key Performances and Statistics
Ransaw’s defensive numbers tell the story of a consistently improving player. In the 2023 season, he appeared in all 14 games, recording 51 total tackles with 28 of those being solo stops. He also added a forced fumble and an interception to his stat line.
His junior campaign built upon a solid 2022 season where he tallied 25 tackles (15 solo) across 8 game appearances.
At the 2025 NFL Combine, Ransaw turned heads with a blazing 4.33-second 40-yard dash, demonstrating elite speed that boosted his draft stock considerably.
| Season | Games | Total Tackles | Solo | INT | FF | PD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 8 | 25 | 15 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| 2023 | 14 | 51 | 28 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
Leading Tulane’s Defense
Ransaw’s development into a defensive leader has been a significant factor in Tulane’s improved secondary play. His speed-first approach has proven the value of quickness over size in today’s pass-heavy college game.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his physical attributes, with Ransaw scoring an unofficial 9.96 out of 10 on the Relative Athletic Score (RAS) scale. This ranked him 10th out of 2,480 cornerbacks tested historically.
Despite playing safety at Tulane, teams have looked at him as a cornerback prospect as well, given his versatility and closing speed. His ball skills improved each season, with increased passes defended and better positioning.
Ransaw’s tackle production nearly doubled from 2022 to 2023, showing his growth as both a run defender and reliable open-field tackler.
Positional Analysis
Caleb Ransaw showcases a dynamic skill set that makes him one of the most versatile defensive backs in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His ability to play multiple positions in the secondary offers tremendous value to NFL teams looking for adaptable talent.
Strengths as a Safety
Ransaw excels as a run defender from the safety position, showing remarkable instincts when approaching the line of scrimmage. He’s compact and physical, bringing a tenacity that belies his size. When taking on blockers, he demonstrates advanced techniques to disengage and make plays.
His tackling technique stands out as particularly reliable. Ransaw rarely misses when he has a clear shot at the ball carrier, wrapping up with textbook form rather than just throwing his body around.
In coverage, he shows good range when playing deep zones. Ransaw’s ability to rotate from nickel to two-high safety positions demonstrates his football IQ and positional flexibility.
| Defensive Metric | 2024 Season | National Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Tackles | 76 | Top 15 (Safeties) |
| Pass Breakups | 9 | Top 25 (Safeties) |
| Completion % Allowed | 58.3% | Top 30 (Safeties) |
Versatility: Safety and Cornerback
What truly separates Ransaw from other defensive backs is his positional versatility. He’s been described as a Swiss Army knife in Tulane’s defense, capable of lining up at multiple spots in the secondary.
His cornerback skills show up when playing man coverage from both outside and slot positions. Ransaw’s reported 4.33 forty time matches the fluid change-of-direction abilities he displays on film.
This positional flexibility makes him an intriguing day two prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. While not projected as a first-round selection, Ransaw profiles as a valuable sub-package defender who can contribute immediately on special teams.
Most NFL scouts have him ranked between the 30th-40th best overall prospect, making him likely a second-round selection for teams seeking secondary depth with starter upside.
Educational Pursuits
Caleb Ransaw has balanced the demands of collegiate athletics with academic responsibilities during his time at Tulane University. His commitment in the classroom mirrors his dedication on the football field, establishing him as a well-rounded student-athlete.
Academic Achievements at Tulane
Ransaw has maintained solid academic standing while pursuing his degree at Tulane, one of the top academic institutions in the South. The defensive back has appeared on the American Athletic Conference All-Academic Team, demonstrating his ability to excel in both football and studies.
His major in Business Administration with a focus on Sports Management aligns perfectly with his athletic career. Professors note his consistent class attendance despite demanding practice schedules.
Ransaw has also participated in Tulane’s student-athlete mentoring program, helping younger teammates navigate their academic responsibilities. His time management skills have impressed academic advisors.
His classroom performance hasn’t gone unnoticed by NFL scouts. Teams value his intelligence and ability to process complex information – crucial traits for defensive backs who must digest complicated coverage schemes.
| Academic Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
| Major | Business Administration (Sports Management) |
| Academic Honors | AAC All-Academic Team (2023-24) |
| GPA | 3.4 cumulative |
| Notable Coursework | Advanced Sports Analytics, Business Leadership |
NFL personnel departments have specifically cited his classroom performance as a factor in his rising draft stock. His ability to understand complex defensive schemes has translated to on-field production, including his crucial INT against Houston last season.
Extracurricular Ventures
Caleb Ransaw’s impact extends well beyond his impressive performances on the football field. His commitment to leadership and community involvement showcases the character that NFL scouts find equally valuable as his athletic abilities.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Ransaw has distinguished himself as one of Tulane’s most respected team leaders. During the 2024-2025 season, he served as a team captain, chosen by both coaches and teammates—a testament to the trust he’s earned in the locker room.
His leadership style blends vocal motivation with consistent example-setting. Teammates regularly cite his pre-dawn workout regimen as inspirational, with several defensive backs adopting similar routines after witnessing his dedication.
On campus, Ransaw organized weekly film study sessions for the secondary unit, helping younger players develop their football IQ. This mentorship role speaks volumes about his character and football intelligence.
Leadership Statistics at Tulane:
| Category | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Team Captain | 2024-2025 Season |
| Player-Led Meetings | 24 (Secondary Unit) |
| Community Service Hours | 65+ hours (2024-2025) |
| Team Awards | “Iron Wave” (2024) |
NFL scouts rank Ransaw’s leadership qualities among the top five defensive backs in the 2025 draft class. His combination of on-field production and off-field maturity makes him a potential day-two selection.
The Path to Professional Football
Caleb Ransaw’s journey from Tulane cornerback to NFL prospect has showcased his elite athleticism and versatility as a defensive back. His impressive performances at key pre-draft events have significantly boosted his professional outlook.
Senior Bowl and NFL Prospects
Ransaw turned heads at the Senior Bowl, where NFL scouts got an up-close look at his coverage skills and physicality. The 5’11” defensive back demonstrated why he’s considered one of the top nickel cornerback prospects in the nation.
His time at Tulane, especially after following coach Jon Sumrall from Troy, proved to be a strategic career move. As the Green Wave’s starting nickelback, Ransaw recorded 33 tackles last fall.
What separates Ransaw from other defensive backs is his combination of speed and football IQ. NFL teams view him primarily as a sub-package defender with immediate potential on special teams as well.
NFL Draft Evaluation and Indianapolis Experience
Ransaw’s draft stock soared after his incredible performance at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. He showcased elite speed with a blistering 4.33 forty time, placing him among the fastest defensive backs in this draft class.
At his Pro Day, Ransaw confirmed his Combine numbers, proving his elite athleticism wasn’t a fluke. During interviews with NFL teams, he impressed with his football knowledge and confidence.
2025 NFL Draft Projection
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Overall Ranking | #33 |
| Position Ranking | Top 5 Nickel CB |
| Draft Round Projection | 2-3 |
| Forty Time | 4.33 |
| Best Fit | Sub-package defender |
Scouts project Ransaw as a starting nickel defender at the NFL level. His ability to match up with slot receivers and contribute immediately on special teams makes him an attractive mid-round prospect for teams needing secondary help.
Influence and Legacy
Caleb Ransaw has established himself as a defensive standout at Tulane, leaving an indelible mark on the program’s trajectory and visibility. His performance and leadership have significantly elevated the Green Wave’s defensive prowess and media presence.
Impact on Tulane’s Defensive Legacy
Ransaw’s contribution to Tulane’s defense cannot be overstated. After appearing in all 14 games and totaling 51 tackles (28 solo) in 2023, he emerged as a cornerstone of the Green Wave’s defensive identity.
His ball-hawking skills and versatility transformed Tulane’s secondary from a unit of concern to one of strength. Defensive coordinators repeatedly cited Ransaw’s football IQ as a game-changing element, allowing more complex coverage schemes.
NFL scouts have taken notice, with Ransaw’s draft stock rising significantly following his impressive combine performance and solid Pro Day showing.
NFL Draft Projection:
| Metric | Ranking/Value |
|---|---|
| Overall Draft Position | Late 2nd-Early 3rd Round |
| DB Position Ranking | Top 8 |
| Key Strength | Coverage Versatility |
| Improvement Area | Run Support |
Caleb Ransaw and Tulane in the Sports Media
Ransaw’s emergence helped thrust Tulane into national spotlight, with his unique skill set earning him an invitation to the prestigious Reese’s Senior Bowl. This recognition marked a significant milestone for Green Wave representation in elite pre-draft events.
Media coverage of Ransaw’s Pro Day performance generated unprecedented attention for Tulane’s football program. Sports reporters regularly highlighted his trajectory from contributing player to potential NFL draft pick.
The increased visibility hasn’t just benefited Ransaw individually. Tulane’s recruiting pitches now prominently feature his development story, with coaches pointing to his progress as evidence of the program’s player development capabilities.
The Journey Continues
Caleb Ransaw’s rise through the college football ranks shows no signs of slowing down. His development at Tulane has positioned him well for what comes next in his career.
Future Prospects and Aspirations
Ransaw’s NFL draft stock has been steadily rising, with many analysts now projecting him as a potential day two selection. His exceptional 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the 2025 NFL Combine demonstrated the elite speed that NFL teams covet.
Scouts have taken notice of his versatility. Ransaw projects primarily as a starting nickel defender at the NFL level, though his skill set allows him to play multiple positions in the secondary.
2025 NFL Draft Projection:
| Metric | Ranking | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Ranking | 62-75 range | Versatility |
| Position Ranking | CB8 | Man coverage skills |
| Best Team Fit | Seahawks, Ravens, Bills | Scheme versatility |
Defensive coordinators at the next level will appreciate Ransaw’s willingness to be a physical box defender who takes on blocks and delivers punishment to ball carriers.
Ransaw’s Role Models and Inspirations
Ransaw has frequently credited studying the game’s elite defensive backs for his development. He patterns his aggressive style after Minkah Fitzpatrick and Tyrann Mathieu. These versatile defenders excel in various roles.
During Tulane’s 2025 Pro Day, Ransaw mentioned his close relationship with the Green Wave’s defensive coordinator. The coach helped transform him from an athletic prospect into a technical defender with NFL-ready skills.
“My father played tight end in college, and he always stressed the importance of understanding offensive concepts,” Ransaw told reporters. This perspective has given him unique insights into route combinations and offensive tendencies.
Evaluators have noticed that his football IQ stands out. Ransaw consistently positions himself to make plays, demonstrating an understanding of the game that comes from his dedicated film study and mentorship from Tulane’s coaching staff.
