As anticipation builds for the 2026 NFL Draft, Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Banks is rapidly solidifying his position as one of the top prospects in his class. Following a standout performance at the end of the 2024 season, Banks has garnered significant attention from scouts and analysts, with many projecting him as a potential first-round selection.Banks, a formidable presence at 6-foot-6 and 334 pounds, has impressed with his rare combination of size, strength, and surprising athleticism for an interior lineman. Observers, including Dane Brugler from The Athletic, have praised his ability to create movement and his relentless effort. Brugler notably ranked Banks as the No. 2 defensive lineman for the 2026 NFL Draft, highlighting his “Chris Jones playbook” style of using length to disrupt plays.His versatility is another key asset, as Banks has demonstrated the capacity to play various techniques across the defensive front, from a traditional defensive tackle in a four-man scheme to a five-technique in a three-man alignment. This adaptability makes him an appealing prospect for NFL teams looking for a disruptive force on their defensive line.Banks, who reportedly considered entering the 2025 NFL Draft, opted to return to Florida to further hone his skills and solidify his draft stock. His 2024 season saw him set career highs in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks, showcasing his developing pass-rushing abilities with 4.5 sacks and 29 quarterback pressures.While some analysts, like ESPN’s Matt Miller, still place Clemson’s Peter Woods ahead of Banks as the top defensive tackle, the consensus is that Banks is firmly in the conversation as an elite talent. Scouts are particularly enamored with his physical profile and the potential for even greater improvement in his technique, especially in his hand usage and pass-rush plan. If Banks continues to refine these areas, a top-10 selection in next April’s draft is not out of the question.As the 2025 college football season approaches, all eyes will be on Banks to see if he can further elevate his game and cement his status as one of the premier defensive line prospects in the upcoming NFLDraft.
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