The closer we get to the 2025 NFL Draft, the more the buzz around Kelvin Banks Jr. is likely to grow. He checks every box scouts and general managers are looking for: elite competition, production, size, athleticism, technique, and leadership
While quarterbacks and skill position players often steal the headlines, teams understand that championships are built in the trenches—and Kelvin Banks Jr. is exactly the kind of cornerstone player you can build an offensive line around for the next decade.
The question isn’t whether Kelvin Banks Jr. belongs in the conversation for the top tackle in the draft—the real question is: how high will he go on draft night?
Kelvin Banks Jr. is a rare offensive tackle prospect who can immediately elevate an NFL team’s offensive line.
Whether he ends up in Jacksonville, New York, or elsewhere, one thing is certain: he will be a game-changer for whoever drafts him.
With elite traits, high-level experience, and the versatility to play multiple positions, Banks is poised to make an instant impact in the league.
The Jaguars and Jets both have compelling reasons to select him, and fans of both franchises will be watching closely when the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off.
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Kelvin Banks Jr.: The Unsung Star of the 2025 NFL Draft Class
The 2025 NFL Draft is quickly approaching, and while much attention has been placed on the big-name quarterbacks, flashy wide receivers, and dynamic defensive players, one of the most impressive yet underappreciated prospects is Texas Longhorns offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr..1
Despite being one of the premier talents at his position, Banks doesn’t always seem to get the same level of hype as some of his counterparts.
However, analysts and scouts who closely follow the game know just how valuable he is—and why he could be the first offensive tackle off the board in April.
Early Life and High School Stardom
Kelvin Banks Jr. grew up in Humble, Texas, and it didn’t take long for football fans in the Lone Star State to realize they were witnessing a special talent.
Standing out at Summer Creek High School, Banks dominated the competition with a rare blend of size, strength, and agility.
Rated as a five-star recruit and one of the top offensive tackles in the country, Banks received scholarship offers from nearly every major college football program in America.
Ultimately, Banks committed to the Texas Longhorns, staying close to home and becoming one of the cornerstones of the Longhorns’ offensive line rebuild under head coach Steve Sarkisian.
Instant Impact at Texas
Unlike many offensive linemen who require a redshirt year or extra development time, Kelvin Banks Jr. was a day-one starter for Texas.
He seamlessly transitioned to the college game, quickly establishing himself as a reliable pass protector and dominant run blocker.
His freshman year was nothing short of remarkable, earning Freshman All-American honors and solidifying his place as one of the best young linemen in the country.
Banks’ early success wasn’t just a product of natural talent. His technique, footwork, and ability to diagnose defensive schemes demonstrated a high football IQ well beyond his years.
Kelvin Banks Jr.: Dominating Against Elite Competition
One of the key reasons analysts like Pro Football Focus’ Max Chadwick are so high on Kelvin Banks Jr. is his proven track record against elite-level competition.2
Playing in the Big 12—and now the SEC following Texas’ transition—Banks has consistently lined up against some of the best defensive ends and edge rushers in college football.
He’s more than held his own, often neutralizing defenders who are considered future NFL talents themselves.
Chadwick highlighted this, stating:
“He’s proven it against the best players in the country, 93rd percentile GAS score, a career-high 81 run-blocking grade. He’s a natural athlete in a zone scheme who can get to the second level.”
In short, Banks isn’t just dominant against lower-tier teams; he excels when the lights are brightest and the stakes are highest.
The Analytics Edge: Breaking Down the Metrics
Analytics play a growing role in modern scouting, and Kelvin Banks Jr.’s metrics are off the charts. According to PFF’s data:
- Most valuable Power 4 tackle (2024 season)
- 93rd percentile GAS score
- Career-high 81 run-blocking grade
These numbers tell the story of a well-rounded, high-level offensive tackle who can both protect the quarterback and open running lanes.
His pass-blocking efficiency has been outstanding throughout his career, allowing minimal pressures and rarely getting penalized—traits highly coveted at the NFL level.
Prototypical NFL Size and Athleticism
At the NFL Combine, Kelvin Banks measured in at 6-foot-5, 315 pounds, with long arms and a powerful frame.
But what makes Banks unique isn’t just his size—it’s how he moves at that size. Offensive tackles often struggle with balance or foot speed when they carry that much weight, but Banks glides effortlessly in pass protection and displays incredible agility when asked to pull or block in space.
His performance during Combine drills only reinforced the idea that he’s a natural fit for a variety of NFL offensive schemes, particularly zone-blocking systems that demand mobility and quickness.
Pass Protection Masterclass
In today’s NFL, protecting the quarterback is more crucial than ever, and Kelvin Banks Jr. has made a name for himself as one of the premier pass blockers in college football.
His ability to anchor against bull rushers, combined with quick lateral movement to counter speed rushers, makes him one of the safest bets for any NFL franchise looking to bolster its offensive line.
Over the past two seasons, Banks has allowed very few sacks and pressures, showcasing consistent technique and poise under pressure.
His footwork, hand placement, and ability to reset against second moves are textbook examples of what scouts want to see from a left tackle.
Run Blocking: Physical and Technical Excellence
While his pass protection has received plenty of praise, Banks’ run-blocking ability shouldn’t be overlooked. In fact, he achieved a career-high 81 run-blocking grade in the 2024 season, according to PFF.
Whether executing outside zone runs, inside zone, or pulling plays, Banks uses his strength, leverage, and football IQ to open up lanes for running backs.
His ability to reach the second level and engage linebackers is particularly valuable, especially for NFL teams that rely on zone schemes or RPO-heavy offenses.
Why Kelvin Banks Jr. Deserves to Be the First OT Off the Board
Every draft class features debates over who the top offensive tackle prospect is, and the 2025 class is no different.3
Names like Josh Simmons and others have frequently been mentioned, but analysts like Max Chadwick firmly believe Kelvin Banks Jr. deserves to be the first tackle selected.
Here’s why:
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Proven Track Record Against Elite Talent – Banks has excelled against top-tier defenders, unlike some prospects who have inflated numbers against weaker competition.
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Athleticism + Technique – Many tackles have one but not the other. Banks possesses both.
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Versatility in Schemes – He’s tailor-made for zone schemes but versatile enough to fit in a power or gap scheme as well.
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Leadership and Maturity – Banks has been a leader at Texas since his freshman year, demonstrating intangibles that coaches love.
Potential NFL Fits for Kelvin Banks Jr.
Looking ahead to the draft, several teams could benefit from adding Kelvin Banks Jr. to their offensive line:
- New York Giants: Desperately in need of help at offensive tackle to protect their young quarterback.
- Tennessee Titans: Looking to bolster their offensive line and commit to the run game.
- Chicago Bears: A team focused on protecting Caleb Williams could see Banks as a long-term answer at left tackle.
- Arizona Cardinals: Needing help in the trenches to protect Kyler Murray and establish a strong running game.
Wherever he lands, Kelvin Banks Jr. is poised to make an immediate impact.
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Which Team Will Draft Kelvin Banks Jr. in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The 2025 NFL Draft is already shaping up to be a fascinating one, with many prospects generating buzz well ahead of April.
One name at the top of draft boards, especially for teams needing offensive line help, is Kelvin Banks Jr. The standout offensive tackle from Texas is widely considered one of the best offensive linemen in the country.
Known for his elite footwork, power, and versatility, Banks has everything NFL teams covet in a franchise left tackle.
Two teams stand out as the most logical destinations for Banks: the Jacksonville Jaguars and the New York Jets.
Both have specific needs along the offensive line and hold early draft picks. Let’s take a closer look at each team and why they could be a perfect fit for Kelvin Banks Jr.
Jaguars’ Offensive Line Concerns
The Jacksonville Jaguars have built an exciting young core around quarterback Trevor Lawrence. However, protecting their franchise QB has been an ongoing challenge.
Inconsistent play from the offensive line was a key issue during the 2024 season. Although the Jaguars addressed left tackle by signing veteran Chuma Edoga in free agency, Edoga is more of a stopgap solution rather than a long-term answer.
Additionally, right tackle remains a question mark. Injuries and inconsistency plagued the unit throughout last season, making offensive line reinforcement a top priority.
Why Kelvin Banks Jr. Fits
Drafting Kelvin Banks Jr. would give the Jaguars a foundational piece for the next decade. Even if Edoga starts the 2025 season, Banks could seamlessly slide into either tackle spot and eventually take over on the left side.
His ability to anchor the line and provide stability would allow Lawrence more time in the pocket and reduce the number of hits he takes.
Moreover, the Jaguars’ offense thrives on versatility and balance. Banks is equally effective in both pass protection and run blocking, which aligns perfectly with the team’s offensive philosophy. Pairing him with young talents like Travis Etienne and Christian Kirk could make the Jaguars’ offense one of the most dangerous in the AFC.
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New York Jets: Building a Wall for Justin Fields
The New York Jets made headlines this offseason by trading for quarterback Justin Fields. While Fields brings athleticism and playmaking ability, he also has a tendency to extend plays and take unnecessary hits.
For the Jets, protecting their new quarterback is a top priority, especially after losing starting right tackle Morgan Moses to the New England Patriots in free agency.
The Jets already have promising pieces along the line, such as left tackle Olu Fashanu and right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker.
However, the departure of Moses leaves a glaring hole on the right side, making it essential for the team to find a long-term solution.
Why Kelvin Banks Jr. Completes the Jets’ Line
Kelvin Banks Jr. could be the missing piece to solidify the Jets’ offensive line. His ability to play both left and right tackle gives the team flexibility.
Imagine an offensive line featuring Fashanu on the left, Vera-Tucker at guard, and Banks locking down the right tackle spot. It would instantly become one of the league’s premier units.
Furthermore, Fields’ mobility and tendency to escape to the outside make having strong edge protection crucial. Banks’ athleticism ensures he can keep up with Fields’ improvisational style, allowing plays to develop without constant pressure.
Kelvin Banks Jr.: The Next Elite Offensive Tackle
Before diving into potential landing spots, it’s important to understand why Kelvin Banks Jr. is such a coveted prospect.
The 6’4″, 325-pound tackle has been dominant during his college career at Texas, consistently shutting down elite edge rushers in the Big 12 and beyond.
Banks has the ideal blend of size, athleticism, and technical ability. His quick feet allow him to handle speed rushers, while his strength and hand placement make it difficult for defenders to bull rush him.
He’s also a reliable run blocker, capable of opening holes at the second level. What separates Banks is his football IQ—his ability to read defensive fronts and adjust mid-play is advanced for his age.
Scouts project him to be an instant starter at the next level and possibly a perennial Pro Bowler. For teams with questions at the offensive tackle position, Banks represents a safe and high-upside pick.
Draft Positioning: How the Jaguars and Jets Stack Up
The Jaguars’ draft position in 2025 is expected to be within the top 10, making them well-positioned to target a player like Banks. Their focus will likely be on protecting Lawrence and keeping the offense functioning efficiently.
If Banks is available when the Jaguars are on the clock, it’s hard to imagine them passing up such a talented lineman.
The Jets currently hold the seventh pick, which could align perfectly for them to select Banks. With quarterback secured and key defensive pieces in place, the focus shifts to protecting Fields.
If the Jaguars opt for a different player, the Jets could be the team that swoops in and drafts Banks to shore up their offensive line.
Other Possible Teams in the Mix
While the Jaguars and Jets are the most logical fits, there are a few other teams that could consider Kelvin Banks Jr. depending on how the draft unfolds:
The Cardinals are in a rebuilding phase and could use help across the offensive line. Protecting quarterback Kyler Murray remains a priority, and Banks’ skill set would complement their offense well.
With an aging and inconsistent offensive line, the Titans could look to invest in a young tackle like Banks to build around quarterback Will Levis.
The Commanders have question marks along their offensive line and could view Banks as a key building block as they look to stabilize their offense under a new coaching staff.
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