 During his time with the Cowboys, Downs helped anchor the secondary for most of the eighties decade.He was considered one of the best tacklers in the NFL, leading the team secondary for seven consecutive seasons (1981 to 1987), making over 100 tackles in 5 seasons and leading the team in tackles in 3 seasons.He finished with 34 interceptions (fifth in franchise history) and 3 touchdowns (one from an interception return and 2 from fumble returns).