Texas Longhorns offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. entered the 2024 college football season widely viewed as a top ten selection. After another year of tape, there’s a chance that Banks drops into striking range for the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2025 NFL draft. He could reset Kansas City’s offensive line and finally solidify the left tackle position.
Banks checks all the size-related boxes to play left tackle in the NFL. He’s 6'5 1/8" and 315 lbs. with 33 1/2" arms. That arm length isn’t impressive compared to other offensive tackles, but his 84 3/8" wingspan puts him on par with former first round pick JC Latham. Some analysts speculate about Banks kicking inside to guard, but that transition seems unnecessary at this time.
Banks uses an explosive and smooth kick step to gain the width and depth to eliminate rush angles for wide-alignment defenders. His quick hands clamp down on the defender, and he stays square to the pass rusher while driving them up and around the pocket. Banks is a clean athlete and mover who mirrors and matches rushers.
#Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr. (6–4, 324)
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) June 5, 2024
Very raw, but naturally gifted pass protector. Physical run blocker. Plays with plenty of raw power. pic.twitter.com/I0ryJbJI8D
Banks must improve his hand usage. His wide strikes allow defenders into his chest, and he lacks the high end anchor to consistently handle bull rushes. He needs to add more weight to his frame to stabilize his anchor. Banks’ feet occasionally stall or become choppy, creating soft shoulders for defenders. He plays with his chest over his knees too often, which messes with his balance and ability to sustain blocks.
Banks also gets caught leaning in the run game, resulting in him falling off blocks. His speed and clean movement in space make him a versatile run blocker capable of operating in multiple schemes. Banks lands some significant blocks on the perimeter or at the second level and possesses enough power in his legs to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage.
Despite losing some steam over the past six months, Banks should still hear his name called in at least the late teens. In a draft with limited elite talent, it won’t cost the Chiefs as much as usual to jump several teams and stop Banks’ slide.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: 2025 NFL draft scouting report: Texas Longhorns OT Kelvin Banks Jr.
