BREAKING: Former Texas Longhorn OT Kelvin Banks Jr. drafted by New Orleans Saints
Former Texas Longhorns offensive tackle Kelvin Banks, Jr. has been drafted by the New Orleans Saints. The reigning Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy winner was taken 9th in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Banks's achievements earned him national recognition in 2024. In addition to winning the Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy, Banks played a key role in Texas being named a finalist for the Joe Moore Award, which recognizes the best offensive line unit in the nation. He also earned SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week honors twice (September 30 and October 14).
Banks anchored a line that allowed two Texas running backs to surpass 100 rushing yards in a game while helping the Longhorns amass 292 rushing yards and 202 passing yards in key matchups. His return in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl CFP Quarterfinal was a game-changer, as Texas defeated Arizona State 38-28. Banks provided protection that allowed QB Quinn Ewers to throw for a season-high 322 yards and three touchdowns, as the offense averaged 6.2 yards per play.
Banks was consistent at Texas, starting 42 games and helping to protect Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers. With Banks leading the offensive line, Texas put points on the board in a hurry and was hard to stop.
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