Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. works out privately with the NFC South team.
Texas Offensive Tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. Works Out Privately with an NFC South Team: A Potential Gateway to the NFL
Kelvin Banks Jr., one of the brightest young talents in college football, has quickly become a household name in the world of offensive line prospects. As a highly touted offensive tackle for the Texas Longhorns, Banks has already established himself as one of the best at his position in the NCAA, showing remarkable skill, athleticism, and versatility that has garnered the attention of NFL scouts and teams.
Recently, news surfaced that Banks had worked out privately with an NFC South team, a clear indicator of the high regard in which he is held by professional football organizations. These types of private workouts are often used by NFL teams to evaluate the physical and mental attributes of college players before the draft. Given Banks’ performance at Texas, it is no surprise that he is attracting this kind of attention.
This article will explore the significance of Kelvin Banks Jr.’s private workout with an NFC South team, his performance and development at Texas, what makes him such a highly coveted prospect, and what this private workout could mean for his future in the NFL.
Kelvin Banks Jr.: A Rising Star at Texas
Kelvin Banks Jr. arrived at the University of Texas as a highly ranked recruit, and his transition from high school to college football was nothing short of seamless. Hailing from Humble, Texas, Banks was one of the top-ranked offensive tackle prospects in the 2022 recruiting class. His physical attributes alone were enough to make him a standout at the high school level, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing over 320 pounds with an impressive athletic build.
Upon joining Texas, Banks immediately impressed both his coaches and teammates with his skill set, technique, and maturity. As a true freshman in 2022, he earned a starting position at left tackle, an especially demanding role that requires not only physical dominance but also mental toughness and a deep understanding of the game.
His play was exceptional throughout the season, and he was quickly recognized for his ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes, critical aspects of offensive line play. Banks’ footwork and agility were key components of his success, allowing him to mirror defenders and hold up in pass protection against some of the most talented edge rushers in the country. His ability to block in both the run and pass game with equal efficiency made him a well-rounded prospect and one of the most highly regarded offensive tackles in college football.
Why Kelvin Banks Jr. is Generating NFL Interest
It’s no surprise that NFL teams are paying close attention to Kelvin Banks Jr. as the 2024 NFL Draft approaches. There are several factors that contribute to Banks’ rising stock, making him a standout among a crowded field of offensive line prospects.
1. Physical Attributes:
One of the most important aspects of being an elite offensive tackle is having the right physical attributes to go toe-to-toe with NFL-level talent. Banks possesses all the tools necessary for success at the next level. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 325 pounds, Banks has the size to match up against most defensive linemen, but it is his athleticism that makes him such a highly coveted prospect. Despite his size, he possesses an excellent combination of quickness, strength, and flexibility that is crucial for protecting the quarterback’s blindside and opening up running lanes.
In addition, Banks has shown the ability to get to the second level when blocking, a crucial skill for offensive tackles in the NFL who are required to block linebackers and defensive backs on running plays. His fluid movement and quick reaction time allow him to effectively handle both speed rushers and power rushers with equal success.
2. Versatility:
Another trait that stands out about Banks is his versatility. He has primarily played left tackle for the Texas Longhorns, but there is nothing about his game that suggests he couldn’t thrive at the NFL level in other offensive line positions. NFL teams look for players who can play multiple spots on the line, especially in the case of injuries or matchup situations. Whether it’s right tackle or guard, Banks has the potential to be moved around depending on the team’s needs, which makes him even more valuable to an NFL franchise.
3. Footwork and Technique:
Offensive line play is as much about technique as it is about physical prowess, and Banks excels in both areas. His footwork and hand placement are among the best in the college game, which helps him maintain leverage and anchor against defensive linemen. His ability to keep defenders at bay with his quick, balanced steps and effective hand strikes speaks to his coaching at Texas and his natural ability to pick up the nuances of the position.
Banks also showcases a strong understanding of pass protection principles. His ability to mirror defenders and maintain a solid base, even against the most aggressive rushers, will be crucial as he transitions to the NFL. Good footwork and technique are often the difference between being a good offensive lineman and a great one, and Banks appears to have the foundation for the latter.
4. Mental Toughness and Work Ethic:
Banks has consistently shown that he has the mental fortitude and discipline to succeed at the highest levels. As a freshman, he was thrown into the fire as the starter at left tackle, a position that comes with high expectations at a program like Texas. His calm under pressure, combined with his willingness to work hard and improve his game, has allowed him to consistently grow as a player.
NFL scouts love to see that level of maturity in young players, particularly offensive linemen, who must be able to handle pressure from both their coaches and opponents. Banks has consistently demonstrated the type of work ethic and growth mindset that NFL teams value highly.
Private Workout with an NFC South Team: What It Means
A private workout with an NFL team, particularly one in the NFC South, is a strong indication that Banks is on the radar of several NFL organizations. These types of workouts are typically used by teams to get a closer look at a player’s abilities, beyond what they see on tape. It gives coaches and scouts the opportunity to evaluate the player’s athleticism, technical skills, and mental makeup in a more controlled setting.
For Banks, having a private workout with an NFC South team is a significant step in the process of his transition to the NFL. It shows that teams are serious about evaluating his potential, and that they see him as a legitimate prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft. This workout could be a precursor to more private workouts with other NFL teams, further increasing his exposure as a top-tier offensive line prospect.
Which NFC South Team Could Be Interested in Kelvin Banks?
The NFC South features four teams that all have different needs along their offensive lines, and each could be interested in a player like Banks. Let’s take a quick look at the teams in the NFC South and how Banks could fit in:
- Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are in the midst of rebuilding their offensive line, and they need young, talented linemen to help protect their quarterback and create running lanes for their dynamic running back, Bijan Robinson. With the Falcons investing heavily in their offense, a player like Banks would be an ideal fit to help solidify their front five for years to come.
- Carolina Panthers: After selecting quarterback Bryce Young in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Panthers need to provide him with solid protection moving forward. Their offensive line has been a work in progress, and adding a player like Banks, who has the ability to immediately contribute, would be a wise move to ensure the success of their new franchise quarterback.
- New Orleans Saints: The Saints’ offensive line has been among the league’s best in recent years, but age and injuries have started to take a toll. Adding a young, physical talent like Banks would give the Saints a cornerstone piece to build around for the future.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Like the Saints, the Buccaneers have an aging offensive line, and after Tom Brady’s retirement, it is crucial for them to rebuild. Banks could be a long-term investment to shore up their protection on the blindside and provide stability in the trenches.
