NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Caleb Banks, Florida Gators Defensive Lineman
Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Banks decided to forgo the 2025 NFL Draft to play one more season in Gainesville. However, his plans were derailed by a foot injury that plagued him throughout the year and culminated in a broken bone during the 2026 NFL Combine. Once considered a first-round prospect, Banks is now projected to go in the second or third round of the draft due to his injury concerns.
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. placed Banks as the No. 48 overall pick in his mock draft, predicting that the Atlanta Falcons would select him in the second round. On the other hand, CBS Sports’ Mike Renner and NFL.com's Lance Zierlein have differing opinions, with Renner placing Banks in the third round and Zierlein giving him a second-round projection. Zierlein even compared Banks to former Gators defensive tackle Gervon Dexter, highlighting his potential but also noting injury worries.
In a previous mock draft by ESPN's Jordan Reid, Banks was projected as the No. 25 overall pick to the Cincinnati Bengals, emphasizing his size and potential impact on the defensive line. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds, Banks showcased his athleticism at the NFL Combine, making him an attractive prospect for defensive coordinators if he can stay healthy. His standout season in 2024 demonstrated his ability to make an impact with 21 tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, and 4.5 sacks.
Despite his injury setbacks, Banks made a brief return towards the end of the previous season after missing most of the year. With his size, athleticism, and past performance, Banks has the potential to be a valuable addition to an NFL team if he can overcome his injury concerns.