Sunday, March 29, 2026

2026 NFL Draft Prospect DT Caleb Banks

Scouting Reports:









Video:

Defensive tackle Caleb Banks runs official 5.04-second 40-yard dash at 2026 combine:  https://www.nfl.com/videos/caleb-banks-runs-40-yard-dash-at-2026-combine

Articles:

Albert Breer's Latest NFL Draft Buzz: Which Teams Could Trade Out of Their Picks (Maturity questions - There are a few talented guys where teams have had to dig through questions on maturity, and three would be Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor, Texas A&M WR KC Concepcion and Florida DT Caleb Banks. All three are immensely talented. Proctor is probably the most talented lineman in the draft. Concepcion’s combination of run-after-the-catch ability, explosiveness and return value is unique among those in his draft class. And Banks is a nimble 327-pounder who can be very disruptive in the middle of a defense.) (4-12-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/albert-breer-latest-nfl-draft-buzz-which-teams-could-trade-out-of-their-picks#inline-text-25

Red flags everywhere: Which 2026 NFL Draft prospects could fall?
Carter Bahns (Caleb Banks, DL, Florida:  Recurring foot injuries are never ideal, but especially so for 327-pound linemen. Not only did Caleb Banks miss all but three games last season with a broken foot, but he also broke the fourth metatarsal in his left foot ahead of the NFL combine and underwent his second surgery in the span of six months. .According to ESPN, teams received a letter Wednesday concerning Banks' health. The defensive lineman underwent a CT scan on Tuesday, the letter states, which revealed enough healing to indicate he will be fully cleared for football activities in early June. While that is excellent news for his ability to play in 2026, it does not guarantee he will avoid further injuries. Even with the foot issues, Banks commands hype as a first-round talent. He is a physical beast on the interior. The Florida product needs to stay on the field, though, because a lot of his allure revolves around his potential rather than what he put on the stat sheet in college. And there is plenty of room for teams to be concerned about his ability to do so.) (4-22-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-red-flag-tracker-prospects-most-likely-to-fall/

Sources: Draft prospect Caleb Banks (foot) expects June clearance (4-22-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48562038/sources-draft-prospect-caleb-banks-foot-expects-june-clearance

Where Ty Simpson gets drafted, teams who could shake up NFL Draft and more (5. Which top prospect carries the biggest red flag that teams can't ignore?  Wilson: DL Caleb Banks, Florida. "Injuries are always the great equalizer on draft weekend. Caleb Banks is dominant when he's healthy, but he's struggled to stay on the field, both at Florida last season and during the combine this spring. That said, he was a force during all three Senior Bowl practices, reminding everyone of the type of talent he has. If NFL teams don't clear him medically, he could certainly slip." Edwards: DL Caleb Banks, Florida. "There was a thought to include Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy because of the reporting on his knee, but Banks' stock has been the most validating of a potential drop. There is an easy case to be made that he should be taken in the first round and yet it is almost a foregone conclusion that is not where he will go.") (4-21-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-roundtable-ty-simpson/

7 First-Round NFL Draft Prospects Who Could Slide to Day 2 (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida: Florida defensive tackle Caleb Fanks is a fascinating and risky prospect. He possesses built-in-a-lab size at 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds with 35-inch arms and near 11-inch hands. Banks, who was limited to just three appearances in 2025 due to a foot injury, occasionally dominates opponents. Injuries and inconsistent play make him a high-variance prospect, however. The NFL Combine was a perfect example of how frustrating his evaluation is. He suffered a setback through another foot injury after posting exciting testing results such as a 5.04 40 and 32-inch vertical. He comes with a buyer beware tag.) (4-21-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/7-first-round-nfl-draft-prospects-who-could-slide-to-day-2

2026 NFL Draft top defensive linemen (10. DT Caleb Banks, Florida:  At 6’6” and 330 pounds, Banks is a massive interior lineman who commands double-teams. Good luck blocking him with one person. He played everywhere on the defensive line for Florida, which means he doesn’t need to be pigeon-holed into a role as a nose tackle or a 3-technique – he can do both. He injured his foot at the combine, which may raise a red flag for some teams. Big guys and foot injuries often do not end well.) (4-16-26):  https://www.thebiglead.com/2026-nfl-draft-top-defensive-linemen/

The NFL’s best teams use Day 3 of the draft to build winning rosters (4-15-26):  https://apnews.com/article/nfl-draft-caleb-banks-florida-18be8df9a4aecf91ac05cd644cae2088

Boom or bust: Who are 2026 NFL Draft's high-risk, high-reward prospects? (DT Caleb Banks, Florida:  At his best, Banks has all the trappings of a top-10 pick. No defensive tackle is more difficult to handle right off the snap than the 6-6, 327-pounder, who's equally comfortable pushing back blockers and shooting gaps. Highlights, however, hardly tell the full story.  Banks missed all but three games of last season due to a foot injury, and he was sidelined again at the NFL scouting combine with a fracture of his fourth metatarsal. That track record alone could be cause for concern, and it's compounded by the more undeveloped elements of his game. Banks' quickness and forcefulness off the line of scrimmage is too often mitigated by his leverage issues and improper hand usage. And despite his knack for making his way into the backfield, he's developed lots of bad habits as a tackler, too often allowing quarterbacks and ball carriers to escape his clutch. With a more disciplined approach, Banks could become one of the most formidable interior forces in the league. Until then, he might only generate sporadic disruption.) (4-14-26):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/04/14/nfl-draft-2026-boom-bust/89592366007/

2026 NFL Draft preview: 5 defensive tackles that could interest Lions (3. Caleb Banks, Florida - 6-6, 327. 32-inch vertical jump.  The medicals are going to be important with Banks as he missed most of last season with a foot injury. He's got rare athletic traits for a player with his big frame and length. He's got a ton of upside and a high ceiling as both a run defender and pass rusher when he taps into his full potential.) (4-14-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2026-nfl-draft-preview-5-defensive-tackles-detroit-lions-mcdonald-woods-banks

Ranking the top 10 defensive linemen in the 2026 NFL Draft (5. Caleb Banks, Florida, 6-6, 327.  Underwent surgery after breaking foot at NFL combine and is sidelined until at least June. Unrelated to broken foot that limited him to three games last season. Bread-and-butter pass-rush move. Relies on athleticism and power over technique. Alignment versatility.) (4-9-2):  https://nypost.com/2026/04/09/sports/ranking-the-top-10-defensive-linemen-in-the-2026-nfl-draft/

Top 3 players the Lions should NOT draft in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, some of these guys are not ready for the NFL (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  The Lions were one of the teams that had Banks in for a top-30 after he reaggravated his foot injury at the NFL Combine. Look, there is no doubt that Banks is a first-round talent. If he were fully healthy, he’d go in the first round for sure, and I’d bet money on it. But he isn’t.  My suspicion is that the Lions are doing the same thing every other team is doing, and getting a look at the medicals and hoping he falls to the second round. If the Lions took him at 50, it’s a giant steal. Banks, Tyleik Williams, and Alim McNeill are tough. But if they take him at 17, it’s a giant mistake.) (4-9-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/top-3-players-the-lions-should-not-draft-in-the-first-round-of-the-2026-nfl-draft-some-of-these-guys-are-not-ready-for-the-nfl/

2026 NFL Draft Stock Report (Down - Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Banks has really been hurt tremendously by injuries, and they have sunk his draft stock. If Banks had stayed healthy in 2025 and duplicated his 2024 season, he would be a top-10 pick this year. But after missing almost all of the 2025 season, and breaking his foot again in late February, the durability concerns are going to drop him to day two. He could be a steal on the second day of the draft, but staying healthy looks like a big gamble for a team to take early in the second round.) (4--7-26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2026stock_31.php

The safest pick, biggest gamble and more 2026 NFL Draft superlatives (Best player who won't go in Round 1 - Caleb Banks is, in my opinion, the most talented defensive tackle in the draft, but his foot surgeries are a major concern and likely push him out of the top 32 picks. Teams are hesitant to guarantee money to a player with that medical history, especially after he played just 96 snaps last season. He had surgery early in the year after the LSU game, returned for the final two games and had a strong week in Mobile. He was injured again at the combine but should be ready for training camp.  Banks is a rare athlete for his size with fluid movement skills, but multiple foot injuries for a big-bodied player are a concern. If he stays healthy, he has All-Pro upside.) (4-2-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-best-prospects-superlatives-love-downs-reese/


NFL Draft's most fascinating prospect might be Caleb Banks, a 'planet theory' specimen who struggles with 1 major thing (4-1-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/nfl-drafts-most-fascinating-prospect-might-be-caleb-banks-a-planet-theory-specimen-who-struggles-with-1-major-thing-212058678.html

2026 NFL Draft defensive line rankings: Game-wrecking potential on display with top 2 guys, but will they realize it? (2. Caleb Banks, Florida:  This is pure planet theory stuff here but Banks has a combination of size, athleticism and smarts to grow into an impact NFL defender. He played in only three games this season, but his ability to be disruptive off the snap and affect offensive lines is already incredibly impressive. The tackling has a long way to go, but everything else is NFL-ready. — Charles McDonald) (3-30-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/2026-nfl-draft-defensive-line-rankings-game-wrecking-potential-on-display-with-top-2-guys-but-will-they-realize-it-221235219.html

Draft wild cards: 10 prospects in this class who could shake things up (Caleb Banks:  The 6-6 1/4, 327-pound freak athlete is a prototypical 3-technique with explosive traits and disruptive ability at the point of the attack. Banks flashes All-Pro potential with heavy hands and a violent game, but his injury history leads to concerns about his durability. The Florida standout looked like a top-10 prospect in 2024, with his relentless game-wrecking forcing opponents to alter their offensive plans. But a foot injury limited him to just three games last year, and then he reportedly suffered a broken foot at the combine, apparently sidelining him until June. Banks is a staggering physical specimen -- SEE: 35-inch arm length and 10 7/8-inch hand size -- but the health woes make him a risky proposition as a potential first-round pick.)  (3-28-26):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2026-nfl-draft-wild-cards-ty-simpson-caleb-banks-among-10-prospects-who-could-shake-things-up

Lions Will Visit With Intriguing Florida DL Draft Prospect (3-27-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/news/lions-will-visit-with-intriguing-florida-dl-draft-prospect

Florida DL Caleb Banks Will Take At Least Eight Top-30 Visits (3-26-26):  https://nfltraderumors.co/florida-dl-caleb-banks-will-take-at-least-eight-top-30-visits/

Florida DT Caleb Banks sheds light on what happened at the NFL Scouting Combine, with interesting insight (3-26-26):  https://atozsports.com/college-football/florida-gators-news/caleb-banks-talks-nfl-scouting-combine-injury-nfl-draft-stock/

Lions to host Florida Gators defensive lineman for top-30 visit, one of the draft’s top players (3-26-26): https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/lions-to-host-florida-gators-defensive-lineman-for-top-30-visit-one-of-the-drafts-top-players/

2026 NFL Draft: 9 buyer-beware prospects (DI Caleb Banks, Florida:  Banks was one of the biggest risers at the NFL combine after posting historic numbers for his size on what was later found out to be a broken foot. Scouts dreamed about his potential as a pass rusher after he racked up 53 pressures and six sacks across 2023 and 2024.  However, due to injury, Banks suited up for only three games in 2025. When he was healthy, his tape revealed a player whose high-end flashes looked as good as those of any player in this class. But his inconsistencies led to a more mediocre grading profile. In each of the past four seasons, Banks logged PFF overall grades between 68.0 and 73.0. Injuries and inconsistent production may force scouts to take a cautious approach with Banks. If a coaching staff can get him to play with more consistent effort and technique, he could easily be the best defensive tackle in this class. If that doesn’t happen, though, or if the injury risk is too high, he may be too big a gamble to be selected in the first round.) (3-25-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-buyer-beware-prospects

2026 NFL Draft Stock Report (Down - Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Banks’ chances of being a first-round pick took a real shot with another foot injury. Banks’ injury is not long-term, but considering he barely played in 2025 because of injury, it adds to durability and medical concerns. As a result of another injury, Banks is more likely to go on the second day of the draft rather than being a first-rounder.) (3/24/26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2026stock_29.php

3 NFL Draft prospects whose stock is in question (Caleb Banks:  Banks may be the biggest mystery in this draft. His talent level could make him the top defensive lineman in the class.  However, a lingering foot injury clouds his outlook. Banks reportedly injured his foot at the end of the 2024 season, re-injured it during 2025 camp, and broke it again before the combine—clear red flags for teams.  For context, Larry Ogunjobi dealt with a foot injury in 2022 that took two years to fully heal. Banks showed toughness by participating in combine activities despite the injury, but will teams drop him on their boards because of it?) (3-22-26):  https://www.thebiglead.com/3-nfl-draft-prospects-whose-stock-are-in-question/

Caleb Banks' Third Foot Injury in a Year Makes Him Too Risky for the First Round (3-13-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb/florida-caleb-banks-injury-pushes-out-first-round/

What to Know After Gators DL Caleb Banks' Pre-Combine Injury is Revealed (3-12-26):  https://www.si.com/college/florida/football/what-to-know-gators-dl-caleb-banks-pre-combine-injury-revealed-01kkj3ptgygr

Former Florida DT Caleb Banks, potential first-round pick, reportedly suffered broken foot at NFL combine (3-12-26):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/former-florida-dt-caleb-banks-potential-first-round-pick-reportedly-suffered-broken-foot-at-nfl-combine-223539745.html

2026 NFL Draft: Joel Klatt's 5 Biggest Risers Following the Combine (5. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  After playing just three games in 2025 due to a foot injury, Banks needed to have a strong showing in Indianapolis. He did, showing an impressive combination of burst and size.  "Banks wasn't really on anyone's radar coming into the combine," Klatt said. "Maybe he is, but he didn't really play [in 2025]. He lost most of the season due to an injury. So, now you've got to go perform. And perform he did. He's 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds with an 85-inch wingspan and he jumped 32 inches. What are they feeding these kids?" Banks, who had 4.5 sacks in 2024, also ran a 5.04 in the 40-yard dash. He had the fifth-best athletic score of all defensive tackles at the combine, per Next Gen Stats. He also climbed up to No. 14 in FOX Sports NFL Draft analyst Rob Rang's most recent big board. ) (3-11-26):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/draft-joel-klatt-biggest-risers-combine

Best options at every position in the 2026 NFL draft and free agency (Interior defender - 1. Caleb Banks: The defensive tackle class in free agency is full of veterans who can bring a lot of expertise and power to the middle of any NFL defense. Former Detroit Lions defensive tackle D.J. Reader (68.9 PFF grade; 32nd) is the top name on the market. Heading into the 2025 college season, Clemson’s Peter Woods was the name on everyone’s lips, but a drop in size and production has seen him fall down draft boards.  That’s opened up the door for Florida’s Caleb Banks. The massive interior lineman played just 96 snaps in 2025, but his excellent combine performance and insane measurables—as well as the growing importance of defensive tackles in modern defenses—mean he’ll potentially be a top-15 pick in April.) (3-10-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-best-options-at-every-position-in-the-2026-nfl-draft-and-free-agency

2026 All-NFL Scouting Combine Team: Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love Wows (Defensive Tackle: Caleb Banks, Florida - Some have cast the Florida product as a "boom or bust" candidate due to his injuries and inconsistent flashes as a player, but it is hard to find a 6-foot-6, 327-pound defensive tackle with fluid movement skills and heavy hands. Despite prematurely ending his workout due to a minor issue with his cleats, Banks showed out with a 5.04-second 40-yard dash time and eye-popping jumps (32-inch vertical jump and 9-foot-6-inch broad jump) that showcased his athleticism and explosiveness. After impressing at the Senior Bowl and Combine, the big-bodied interior defender has scouts scouring his 2024 tape to see if his potential as an athletic freak warrants first-round consideration.) (3-6-26):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-scouting-combine-top-players

Chiefs Schedule Their First Top-30 Visit (3-6-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/chiefs/onsi/kansas-city-schedule-their-first-top-30-visit


Prospects who tested themselves into first round of draft at combine (Caleb Banks:  Banks is physically imposing. He excelled at the Senior Bowl and then measured 6-feet-6 2/8 and 327 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine. To run the 40-yard dash in 5.04 seconds and then log a 32-inch vertical jump at his size is impressive. In a draft that lacks obvious help at the defensive tackle position, Banks has an opportunity to capitalize. He may owe a percentage of his initial rookie contract to Deone Walker, who is a taller interior defender who was hampered by injuries his final year in college.) (3-3-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-prospects-risers-first-round-combine/

2026 NFL combine results: Full list of measurements and 40 times as testing begins (Caleb Banks:  Florida's Caleb Banks is having a heck of a pre-draft process after being limited to just three games last season because of a broken foot. He reminded everyone of his NFL potential with a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, then followed that up with impressive combine measurables, including an 85¾-inch wingspan — the longest among combine defensive tackles since 1999. He also posted 98th percentile height (6-foot-6 ¼), 89th percentile weight (327 pounds), 94th percentile hand size (10⅞ inches) and 94th percentile arm length (35 inches). Banks has a good chance to go in the back half of Round 1.) (3-2-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-combine-results-full-list-measurements-40-times/

2026 NFL combine winners, losers: Which players are trending up, down? (13. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  It probably wasn't necessary for Banks to congregate with his fellow defensive tackles to know that the 6-foot-6, 327-pounder wasn't quite like any of them. Still, there's something to be said for the impression Banks made after missing all but two games last season. His unique explosion was evident in his 9-6 broad jump and 32-inch vertical leap. Banks' day came to an early end due to cleat discomfort, but it probably wasn't necessary for him to prove much more about his body. There are still significant questions about his leverage, block deconstruction and tackling. But while his future coaching staff will need to polish his finishing touch and other portions of his game, it's clear that no other interior defender poses quite the problems Banks does right off the ball.) (3-2-26):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/03/01/nfl-combine-winners-losers-2026-draft-stock/88918814007/

2026 NFL Combine Recap: What You Need To Know (Florida's Caleb Banks is the athletic freak we all saw prior to his injury last season. He measured in with the longest wingspan for a defensive tackle at the Combine since 1999 (85.75 inches), and ranks between the 94th and 98th percentile in height, hand size, and arm length at his position. His 1.76 10-yard split, 32-inch vertical, and 9-foot-6 broad jump were nothing to sneeze at, either. He appears to have solidified his place in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.) (3-2-36):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2026/03/02/2026-nfl-combine-recap-notes

2026 NFL combine: These prospects impressed evaluators on Thursday (DL Caleb Banks, Florida:  Banks started off the day by raising the eyebrows of scouts with his massive 6-foot-6 and 327-pound frame and a 99th-percentile wingspan, the longest for a defensive tackle since 1999. He showed off his rare athleticism for his size with a 5.04-second 40-yard dash and a 32-inch vertical.) (2-27-26):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/02/27/nfl-combine-thursday-winners-sonny-styles-arvell-reese/88894691007/

2026 NFL Combine Day 1 Risers and Fallers: Sonny Styles Breaks the Scale, Caleb Banks Confirms Talent (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Caleb Banks ended his on-field workout early due to discomfort in his foot, but by the time his athletic testing was over, he’d already done everything he could to verify his status as a potential first-round pick.  Measurements alone turned attention Banks’ way. He came in at 6’6″, 327 pounds, with 35″ arms and a wingspan over seven feet. At that size, he logged a 32″ vertical, a 5.04 40-yard dash, and a 9’6″ broad jump that was second place among all DTs, to just Gracen Halton, who’s 34 pounds lighter.  Banks’ hyper-elite raw talent isn’t anything new, but the quantification helps to contextualize just how special a mover he is at his size. In the right environment, his disruptive potential is unmatched.) (2-27-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2026-nfl-combine-day-1-risers-fallers-sonny-styles-caleb-banks/

2026 NFL Combine Day 1: Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles Headline DL & LB Standouts (Caleb Banks/DT/Florida:  Banks struggled through an injury-plagued season in which he dressed for just two games, which hurt his draft stock. He gained a bit of it back here during combine workouts by putting in a terrific performance. Weighing 327 pounds, Banks timed 5.04 seconds in the 40 with a 10-yard split of 1.76 seconds. His broad jump was a solid 9 feet 6 inches, and he later looked good in drills. Measuring 6-foot-6, NFL teams love the upside, athleticism, and versatility Banks brings. And while he won’t be a first-round pick as many predicted before the season, he’ll most assuredly come off the board in the top half of the second round.) (2-27-26):  https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-flagship-twenty-twenty-six-nfl-combine-day-one-arvell-reese-sonny-styles-headline-dl-lb-standouts/

2026 NFL combine: Top draft prospects, best workouts, risers (Who are the biggest risers from Day 1? Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Banks didn't need to finish the on-field workouts to rank as one of Thursday's winners. The 6-foot-6, 327-pound defensive tackle wowed with a 32-inch vertical jump and a 5.05-second 40. Banks missed most of last season because of a foot injury, but his upside is through the roof. He could have moved into the first round with his times Thursday. -- Miller) (2-26-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47978529/2026-nfl-combine-top-draft-prospects-workouts-risers-40-every-position

TWENTYMAN: Combine Day 2 observations (Rare attributes: Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks is quite the rare physical specimen. He measured 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds. His 35-inch arm length is in the 94th percentile for the position and his nearly 86-inch wingspan ranks in the 99th percentile.) (2-26-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-combine-day-2-observations-cisse-mccoy-ponds

2026 NFL combine: Top draft prospects, workout predictions (Which prospect has the most riding on his workout? Reid: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida. He came into the 2025 season as a potential top-20 pick, but Banks played only three games because of a foot injury. With plenty of question marks entering the predraft process, Banks revived his draft stock a bit during a strong week of practices at the Senior Bowl. But now scouts will want to see him put it all together at the combine; a strong showing in testing and on-field drills could help him resurface as a mid-to-late first-round pick. He's my No. 29 overall prospect.) (2-26-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47977627/2026-nfl-draft-combine-preview-prospects-workouts-quarterbacks-risers

2026 NFL scouting combine: Defensive players with the most to prove (Caleb Banks – Florida: The Banks concern is simple and hopefully not a huge hurdle. Banks only played three games in 2025. He suffered a broken foot vs LSU in September. A story many don’t expect, Banks worked his way back from that injury and returned to practice in November instead of shutting it down. If he’s able to compete at the Combine and performs well, he will minimize those concerns.) (2-26-26):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/2026-nfl-scouting-combine-defensive-players-most-prove/1380da67498da3c0d2e50dfc

NFL World Reacts to Florida DT Caleb Banks’ Bizarre Decision To Bail Midway Through NFL Combine Drills (2-26-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/world-reacts-florida-dt-caleb-banks-decision-bailing-combine-drills/



Former Gators DL Caleb Banks has Quote of the Combine During Press Interview (2-26-26):  https://www.si.com/college/florida/football/former-gators-dl-caleb-banks-quote-during-press-interview-01kjdewmjw4y

NFL combine workouts: Top DL/EDGE grades, plus other standouts (Caleb Banks - Grade: B+ -- Banks was physically impressive as anticipated, but his day ended shortly into the on-field drills because his cleats bothered him. Banks ran the 40-yard dash in 5.04 seconds after measuring an 85¾-inch wingspan -- the longest among combine defensive tackles since 1999.) (2-26-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2026-dl-edge-grades-standouts/

2026 NFL Combine Stock Report – Defensive Tackles (Up - Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Caleb Banks couldn’t participate in the drills because he had an issue with his cleats, but he was able to test extremely well. He ran a 5.04 40 tme with a 1.76 10-yard split, which is incredible, given that he’s 327 pounds. His 35-inch arms are a great bonus as well. No defensive tackle checked in with longer arms.) (2-26-26):  https://walterfootball.com/combine2026stockDT.php

7 Defensive Linemen Who Won the NFL Combine (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks was among the winners right from the weigh-in process. A massive and lengthy defender, the Gators standout measured in at 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds with 35-inch arms and an 85.75-inch wingspan. Those measurements are 89th-percentile-or-greater in every category, according to Pro Football Focus. Banks then leaped a 32 inch vertical jump and 9-foot-6 broad jump during the on-field testing portion, the latter of which was the second-best result among defensive tackles.  Banks possesses freakish athleticism for his size. An inconsistent performer on tape, NFL teams will be infatuated with his size and athletic profile. Banks established himself as a first-round selection in Indianapolis.) (2-26-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/news/7-defensive-linemen-who-won-the-nfl-combine

Biggest NFL Combine takeaways from Day 1 of draft workouts (Defensive Tackle Wave Drill:  The Wave Drill forces players to display lateral quickness and recovery speed. Most tackles will perform this similarly due to the nature of the position. When someone excels in this drill it pops off the screen. Caleb Banks anticipated the changes well, but lacks an explosiveness that shows up on screen. Defensive Tackle 40 times: Caleb Banks - DT - Florida: 1st attempt: 5.05 / 2nd attempt: 5.13.  Banks false faulted on the first two starts of the first attempt. On the third start, Banks ran a respectable time for his size. He looked like a large DT running a 40, but form remained constant. Banks struggled through his second run adding almost a full tenth to his time. Seemed to lose form and had labored steps in the final third. ) (2-26-26):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/nfl-combine-live-updates-highlights-day-1-draft-workouts/faf24a64a79f9b4dd56b488c

Winners and losers from Day 1 of NFL Combine drills (Winner: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida.  At 6062 and 327 pounds, Banks is every bit as big as we thought he was. The rest of his frame was even more impressive, posting 94th-percentile hand size, 94th-percentile arm length, and a 99th-percentile wingspan (via Trevor Sikkema).  Banks is a freak, and ripping off a 5.05 40-yard dash on his first attempt is further proof that he is a different beast than us mere mortals. Banks fought through injuries this season, but if his 61st-percentile 40-yard dash is confirmed, it will be hard to keep that kind of upside out of Round 1. His second run went for 5.13 seconds, but with 10-yard splits of 1.76 and 1.77 seconds, he's a comfortable winner early on Thursday.) (2-26-26):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-winners-losers-updates-defensive-linemen-linebackers/05ef69f7e5f8c526e415d8b3

327-Pound SEC Star Delivers ‘Unreal’ Day 1 NFL Combine Performance (2-26-26):  https://www.si.com/fannation/college/cfb-hq/news/327-pound-sec-star-caleb-banks-nfl-combine

Caleb Banks' NFL Draft Stock Soars Thanks To Combine: Fans and Scouts In Awe After Day 1 (2-26-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/caleb-banks-nfl-draft-stock-soars/

Caleb Banks NFL Combine results: Massive Florida DL turns heads with elite measurements (2-26-26):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/caleb-banks-nfl-combine-results-florida-measurements/2cda47a03acbae19f86b9e32

Florida Gators DT Caleb Banks dominates the NFL Scouting Combine before they hit the field for positional drills (2-26-26):  https://atozsports.com/college-football/florida-gators-news/florida-gators-dt-caleb-banks-dominates-the-nfl-scouting-combine-before-positional-drills-athletic-testing/

6 Draft Prospects to Watch at the 2026 NFL Combine Include Jeremiyah Love, Ty Simpson (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Caleb Banks broke out with four sacks and seven TFLs in 2024, showing off blue-chip raw tools in the process, and later reminded evaluators of those tools with a dominant showing at the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama.  At 6’6″, 325 pounds, with arms over 35″, Banks has overwhelming size, length, and forklift power, to pair with inhuman burst and quickness at that size. His rare raw talent has grandfathered him into the “stack-and-shed nightmare” category, and he flashes excellence as a pass-rusher with swims, swipes, and long arms.  Banks needs more control with his pad level and counter consistency, but his physical makeup is ready-made for immediate impact at the NFL level. The major questions arise from his medical history and his unavailability in 2025.  He’s had foot issues in the past and suffered another injury that required a procedure against LSU, and ultimately caused him to miss most of the 2025 season. There’s a definite lack of certainty regarding Banks’ projection, on account of his small on-field sample size. That said, Banks has true 100th-percentile tools and the potential to be used as an alignment-versatile game wrecker. The pre-draft cycle will determine how high he rises, but he’s trending up fast after the Senior Bowl, and his raw potential is impossible to ignore.  What to Watch from Banks at the Combine - Banks’ foot will be the subject of intense evaluation during the NFL Combine medical checks. Foot injuries, in particular, can be debilitating for players at all positions, and NFL teams will want to make sure there are no long-term degenerative red flags for Banks.  If Banks’ health checks out, then the next focus of his NFL Combine showing will be his testing. If he tests, he could put up jaw-dropping numbers, and he already has a verified hyper-elite size profile from the Senior Bowl: 6’6″, 335 pounds, with 35″ arms and 10 3/4″ hands.  Banks is my current DT1 by a close margin over Peter Woods, and his raw traits are a major reason why. He’ll have a chance to put those on display again in Indianapolis.) (2-26-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2026-nfl-scouting-combine-top-prospects-fernando-mendoza-2/

Florida DT Caleb Banks endears himself to defensive coordinators with explicit rant at 2026 NFL Scouting Combine (2-25-26):  https://atozsports.com/college-football/florida-gators-news/florida-dt-caleb-banks-endears-himself-to-defensive-coordinators-with-explicit-rant-at-2026-nfl-scouting-combine/

Best Things We Heard About Lions Draft Prospects at Combine Day 1 (Florida DL Caleb Banks:  “I feel like I have the ability to play from the 0 to the 9 (technique), all-around, one of the best defensive tackles, I feel like, in this class, I definitely get pressure up the middle. That’s me, that’s what I do.”) (2-25-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/news/best-things-we-heard-lions-draft-prospects-combine-day-one

2026 NFL Draft: One prospect at every position group with the most to gain at the NFL Scouting Combine (Defensive Line: Caleb Banks, Florida.  Banks possesses a freakish build and has a chance to match it with explosive athleticism for his size. Those traits give him the potential to be the best interior pass rusher in this year’s class. He also earned an 87th-percentile PFF run-defense grade in 2025. All eyes will be on Banks, who could solidify a top-20 draft selection with an outstanding combine performance.) (2-25-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-prospects-every-position-group-most-to-gain-scouting-combine

2026 Scouting Combine: Defensive Tackles Are More Important Than Ever. How Does This Class Measure Up? (Florida’s Caleb Banks missed a lot of the 2025 season due to injury, but recovered nicely at the Senior Bowl, and his 2024 tape is pretty formidable.) (2-25-26):  https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2026-scouting-combine-defensive-tackles-peter-woods-caleb-banks-2026-draft

2026 NFL Draft DL Rankings: Big Board, Tiers & Predictions (2. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks was built in a lab, with a 6-foot-6, 335-pound frame that is also blessed with 35-inch arms. Banks was arguably the best prospect in attendance at this year's Senior Bowl, where he confirmed his status as a first-round pick, in our opinion. Pairing physical traits with terrific short-area quickness makes him a potentially dominant player.) (2-24-26):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/onsi/rumors/2026-nfl-draft-dl-rankings-big-board-tiers-predictions

What I want to see at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine (Interior defensive linemen will also be in the spotlight as they jockey for draft positioning. Many will be watching Florida’s Caleb Banks, who is listed at 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds and could be among the most explosive players in the class.) (2-24-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-what-to-see-2026-nfl-scouting-combine

Can Caleb Banks use NFL combine to reassert himself as a first-round draft prospect? (2-24-26):  https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7065929/2026/02/24/caleb-banks-nfl-combine-draft-2026/

2026 NFL Draft: Pre-combine consensus ADP — top 20 players in the PFF Mock Draft Simulator (18. DI Caleb Banks, Florida: Average draft position 20.1.  Banks did not receive a post-Senior Bowl boost, as his ADP slipped slightly from 18.5 to 20.1. He is another prospect who could climb with strong combine testing. At 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds, Banks brings imposing size, though his production — six sacks across 490 pass-rush snaps over the past three seasons — has been modest.) (2-23-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-top-20-players-adp-mock-draft-simulator

2026 NFL Combine preview: 8 interior defensive linemen the Lions should be scouting (Upside gambles - Caleb Banks, 1-3-5T, Florida (6-foot-6, 335):  Banks, a Detroit native, played only three games in 2025 due to a foot injury, but he showed his persistence in working back from injury and balled out at the Senior Bowl. With a rare frame that he uses to his advantage, Florida deployed him up and down their line, giving him reps at the 0, 1, 3, 4i, and 5-techniques. He’s still developing parts of his game, but he’s also likely nowhere near his ceiling.  With an explosive first step, Banks’ size and quickness can overwhelm offensive linemen. He possesses powerful, active hands, utilizes his length (35-inch arms) to close distances, and aggressive speed to gain early advantages. He needs to gain more consistency in his technique, can get caught too high at times, and could use some better conditioning to stay on the field longer, but the overall package is special.) (2-22-26):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/detroit-lions-draft/156885/2026-nfl-combine-preview-8-interior-defensive-linemen-the-lions-should-be-scouting

2026 Combine preview: Defensive tackle (4. Caleb Banks, Florida, 6-6, 335. Banks missed most of the 2025 season due to injury, so the medicals in Indianapolis will be important for him. He had a good week at the Senior Bowl, which turned a few heads. Banks shows off nimble feet and a quick first step for a player his size which could translate to more sack production in the NFL as he gets stronger and refines his technique.) (2-21-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2026-combine-preview-defensive-tackle-mcdonald-woods-hunter

10 boom-or-bust players in the 2026 NFL Draft (DI Caleb Banks, Florida:  Banks has been a productive pass-rusher throughout his entire career at Florida, which is why he’s a projected top-25 pick. His 12% pressure rate since 2023 is sixth among Power Four defensive tackles during that stretch. However, he missed nine games this past season due to a foot injury and has just a 69.4 PFF run-defense grade for his career. Banks did have a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, but there are still risks in taking him with a first-round pick.) (2-13-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-10-boom-or-bust-players-in-the-2026-nfl-draft

2026 NFL Draft: Strengths, weaknesses for the top DI prospects (DI2. Caleb Banks, Florida - PFF Predictive Big Board Rank: 17.  Strengths:  Has the frame/build to play both 3-4 defensive end and 4-3 defensive tackle.  Powerful player. Club move has good violence to it.  Stack-and-shed is quick and efficient in run defense.  Can hold his ground well against single blocks and even combos.  Weaknesses:  Pass rush is based on gap-shooting more than hand usage (but he is getting better).  Doesn't turn the tightest corner when executing a rip move.  Sometimes too reliant on upper-body strength and forgets importance of leverage.  Slower pursuit to the ball if outside the pocket) (2-20-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-strengths-weaknesses-top-interior-defenders-prospects

PFF Senior Bowl Grades: Grading standouts from one-on-one and team drills (While there were a few reps where he struggled to disengage early, Caleb Banks still put together a solid week in the pass-rush one-on-ones. His most impressive wins came against Jake Slaughter, where Banks got underneath Slaughter’s right arm before executing a clean swim move over the left shoulder. He also flashed his burst off the ball with an immediate inside win against Jeremiah Wright.) (2-9-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-pff-senior-bowl-grades-grading-standouts-from-one-on-one-and-team-drills

Scouts dish on Senior Bowl standouts: Could Nussmeier climb? (Caleb Banks, DL, Florida - CBS Sports Ranking: No. 31.  What they're saying: "He looked really good -- the combination of size, athleticism and power. He was hurt this season but he's huge, he's athletic and he's powerful and he was able to overwhelm a decent group of Senior Bowl o-linemen. And it wasn't even like he was winning on technique and savvy. He was just physically more dominant. There are only so many guys that big, athletic and powerful. He helped himself for sure and with the injury context too, it was more important.") (2-4-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-players-climbing-draft-boards-after-senior-bowl/

2026 NFL Draft Stock Report – (Up - Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Banks had a superb 2024 season, showing an ability to rush the passer from the inside and the strength to defend the run. He played very little in the 2025 season, so it really helped Banks’ draft stock to show teams that he is healthy and ready to play. Banks was very good in Senior Bowl practice, showing speed and explosiveness as an interior pass rusher. Banks gets in trouble when he stands up too high, but the potential is there for him to be a dynamic interior defender, and his Senior Bowl performance improves his chances of being a first-round pick.) (2/3/26):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2026stock_23.php

5 Biggest Takeaways From 2026 Senior Bowl (First-Round Prospects?
After a string of late de-commits, it was unclear who the first-round prospects in Mobile would be. As per usual, the practices reveal all. A pair of defensive talents in attendance performed like future first-round picks.  Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks was a game-wrecker when at his best. Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood was an excellent performer in coverage despite those drills being skewed to benefit the offense. Banks and Hood are top-32 prospects in this class.) (2-2-26):  https://www.thedraftnetwork.com/2026/02/02/senior-bowl-2026-takeaways

2026 Senior Bowl Practice Observations: Caleb Banks, T.J. Parker Take Field in Mobile (Caleb Banks, DT, American - Day 1 Update:  Caleb Banks had his moments on Day 1. He generated pressure with a violent inside counter during one team drill rep, and his raw talent popped all day. However, he didn’t win 1-on-1s as consistently as expected, and his pad-level maintenance remains an area of emphasis moving forward.  Nonetheless, Banks’ first day was positive overall, and if he can compound the momentum and string together more high-quality reps, he could realize his Round 1 upside.  Day 2 Update:  It was only a matter of time before Caleb Banks reminded everybody that he simply moves differently. After a relatively quiet, but still productive, Day 1 at the Senior Bowl, Banks was one of the clear risers in Mobile on Day 2.  The 6’6″, 330-pound behemoth brought his inhuman quickness and recalibration efficiency in 1-on-1s. He tossed Logan Taylor aside with a brutal throw-by move after getting a step with his initial swim, ripped through Jake Slaughter’s anchor with a menacing inside rip, and brought Fernando Carmona Jr. to the ground with a fearsome push-pull.  Meanwhile, in team drills, Banks generated ever-consistent pressure and used his size, leverage acquisition, and explosiveness to reset the line time and time again, and was even active in backside pursuit on unblocked plays. For the proponents of Banks as a Round 1 prospect, Wednesday was a reminder of the merit of such a stance. He’s the truth.  Day 3 Update:  Caleb Banks was perhaps the only Senior Bowl prospect with previously established Round 1 standing. He wasn’t a consensus Round 1 prospect entering the event, of course. However, it seems likely to change, especially after his performance on Days 2 and 3.  At 6’6″ and 330 pounds, Banks simply has an inhuman brand of burst and quickness, and overwhelming power capacity as a result. His physical tools alone make him near impossible to handle, and he proved his superiority directly in 1-on-1s.  With his quickness and constant leg action, Banks won with swims and rips after off-setting, and at one point tossed his man to the ground with an explosive throw-by, and he also flashed the ability to bowl through blockers with menacing raw power.  The Senior Bowl is a crucible of talent, and those who possess top-flight tools often show it through comparison and triumph. Banks’ talent is ready-made for Day 1 disruption, and the game-wrecker upside is too great for too many teams to pass on.) (1-31-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/senior-bowl-practice-observations-day-1-2026/


Senior Bowl Risers: Tyren Montgomery Makes a Statement, Caleb Banks Proves His Superiority (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Caleb Banks was perhaps the only Senior Bowl prospect with previously established Round 1 standing. He wasn’t a consensus Round 1 prospect entering the event, of course. However, it seems likely to change, especially after his performance on Days 2 and 3.  At 6’6″ and 330 pounds, Banks simply has an inhuman brand of burst and quickness, and overwhelming power capacity as a result. His physical tools alone make him near impossible to handle, and he proved his superiority directly in 1-on-1s.  With his quickness and constant leg action, Banks won with swims and rips after off-setting, and at one point tossed his man to the ground with an explosive throw-by, and he also flashed the ability to bowl through blockers with menacing raw power.  The Senior Bowl is a crucible of talent, and those who possess top-flight tools often show it through comparison and triumph. Banks’ talent is ready-made for Day 1 disruption, and the game-wrecker upside is too great for too many teams to pass on.) (1-30-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2026-senior-bowl-risers-january-tyren-montgomery-caleb-banks/

2026 NFL Draft prospects: Top 10 players on defense (Interior defensive line - 4. Caleb Banks, Florida:  Banks is a bit of a wild-card due to a foot injury suffered during the 2025 season. If his medicals check out, he has arguably the highest ceiling of anyone at the position in this class with an athletic frame at 6-foot-6 and 334 pounds.) (1-30-26):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2026/01/30/2026-nfl-draft-top-10-rankings-defense/88403594007/

Senior Bowl Day 3 Standouts: First-round prospect dominates, while fast rising offensive lineman shines (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  It’s becoming a common thing in NFL Draft media to praise Caleb Banks, and it’s easy to see why. After an up-and-down day on the first day of practice, Banks showed up in a big way on both Wednesday and Thursday with dominant performances.I spoke to him after practice on Tuesday afternoon asking him about dealing with his longer arms on the interior, and his answer emphasized his struggles.  “I mean, it’s just, it’s honestly just technique, being able to shoot, saying peek, and it helps me a lot when I get to peek,” Banks told me after Day 1 of Senior Bowl practice. “Sometimes alignment trying to sit there, but they get stood straight up. So it’s very, really big advantage.”  You could see that being a big factor on Tuesday, where he wasn’t trying to win with a secondary move, but rather just peek. He likely got a coaching point after practice, and he became a dominant force akin to the Javon Kinlaw’s of the past. His stock is through the roof right now.) (1-30-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/senior-bowl-day-3-standouts-caleb-banks-kyle-louis-max-iheanachor-thaddeus-dixon/

Senior Bowl winners and losers: Jacob Rodriguez, Garrett Nussmeier rising (Winner: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida - Banks tends to be polarizing as a practice with how much overall playmaking pop he can pack in his 6-6, 335 pounds, whether it has any limitation on his quickness off the line. Banks had a solid all-around week to keep him at least as an early second-round pick.) (1-30-26):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/senior-bowl-winners-losers-2026-nfl-draft-stock/1e1bd5c453f8c8d4b3499b97

Senior Bowl Day 2: Sleepers emerging at QB, WR (2. Potential first-rounder provides health update. Florida DT Caleb Banks suffered a foot injury that disrupted his final season of college, but he's performing at the Senior Bowl with a chance to crack the first round.  On Tuesday, Banks -- Jeremiah's No. 39 overall prospect -- was a bit quiet in practice, but on Wednesday he made some noise. Banks was strong in one-on-one drills, flashing nice power in wins against his college teammate, Jake Slaughter, and Arkansas' Fernando Carmona Jr. In team drills, Banks would have had a tackle for loss had there been full tackling.  Banks declared himself 100 percent healthy on Wednesday. He suffered a foot injury in fall camp, then re-injured it against LSU in the third game of the season. It was a foot fracture, and it wouldn't have been stunning had he opted out of the remainder of the season. But Banks returned late in the season and made an impact for the Gators, starting the final two games. "I came back to support my teammates and to finish my (college) career off right, broken foot or not," Banks said. "They needed me out there."  Asked what he needs to show scouts to secure an early draft slot, Banks said: "Definitely my consistency, play to play. Been asked about that. I'm trying to show I can be (more consistent) here.") (1-29-26):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2026-senior-bowl-day-2-standouts-2026-nfl-draft

Senior Bowl practices for 2026 NFL draft: Best QBs, prospects (Day 3 standout prospects - Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  After an inconsistent first day, Banks showed plenty of juice on Day 2. He followed that up with an even better third practice on Thursday. Banks brought plenty of energy, most notably after a quick win against guard Jeremiah Wright (Auburn) during a one-on-one rep. Banks used a fast swipe to race past him, then let Wright know about it. Banks was a polarizing prospect entering the week because of injuries that limited him to two games last season. He answered a lot of questions evaluators had about him and is likely back in the top-40 discussion after a strong showing. -- Reid.  Quick-hitters from Day 2 - Miller: After an inconsistent first day, Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks put it all together on Wednesday. With injuries limiting him to two games last season, Banks was circled as a prospect with plenty to gain in Mobile. He looked like the prospect many were excited about coming into the season, flashing his power in the run game and disruption as a pass rusher. Banks carries a mixture of second- and third-round grades from scouts that I have talked to here.  Tuesday's biggest takeaway - The defensive line class stood out on Day 1. With many of the perceived top players at the position not participating in the Senior Bowl -- only two players (Zion Young, Lee Hunter) in my overall my top 32 are here -- there's an opportunity for risers to increase their draft stock, as there are fewer elite prospects to distract scouts. That's the case for this deep group of defensive linemen.  On Tuesday, Young, Hunter, Caleb Banks (Florida) and T.J. Parker (Clemson) all looked like top-40 players in a class with average talent. But the 2026 class is lacking overall, which could put those four closer to the overall top 25 given their standout play in the first practice session. Hunter was the best player I saw on the field throughout two practices (more on that later), but Parker and Young both won consistently with power and length while using speed to close on the ball in team sessions. And Banks, who is returning from a season-ending foot injury, was as impactful as expected. You're going to hear a lot about this defensive line class in the next three months. Tuesday was a great introduction. -- Miller.) (1-29-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47735737/senior-bowl-2026-nfl-draft-best-prospects-quarterbacks-nuggets

2025 Senior Bowl Recap, Day 2: Standouts, draft risers and more (Florida DT Caleb Banks reminds everyone why he was a projected first-rounder.  Banks didn’t get a ton of snaps this past season due to a foot injury, which was a shame because he was a notable draft prospect in last year’s class who would have likely been a second-rounder but ultimately chose to return to boost his stock and get into the first round.  Now healthy, the Senior Bowl was his chance to remind everyone that he's a first-round pick, and that’s what he did on Day 2. The 6-foot-5 and 330-pound defensive tackle looked imposing during Wednesday’s practice. He was strong in run-defense drills but was really making scouts’ eyes widen during the pass-rushing drills, as there were some snaps where he had offensive linemen hanging on for dear life.) (1-29-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2025-senior-bowl-recap-day-2-standouts-draft-risers-and-more

Senior Bowl Day 2 Risers: Tyren Montgomery Has All the Buzz, Caleb Banks Breaks Through (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  It was only a matter of time before Caleb Banks reminded everybody that he simply moves differently. After a relatively quiet, but still productive, Day 1 at the Senior Bowl, Banks was one of the clear risers in Mobile on Day 2.  The 6’6″, 330-pound behemoth brought his inhuman quickness and recalibration efficiency in 1-on-1s. He tossed Logan Taylor aside with a brutal throw-by move after getting a step with his initial swim, ripped through Jake Slaughter’s anchor with a menacing inside rip, and brought Fernando Carmona Jr. to the ground with a fearsome push-pull.  Meanwhile, in team drills, Banks generated ever-consistent pressure and used his size, leverage acquisition, and explosiveness to reset the line time and time again, and was even active in backside pursuit on unblocked plays. For the proponents of Banks as a Round 1 prospect, Wednesday was a reminder of the merit of such a stance. He’s the truth.) (1-29-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/senior-bowl-day-2-risers-2026-nfl-draft/

'It's a really big advantage' -- Florida DT Caleb Banks talks about his biggest edge after day 1 of Senior Bowl practice (1-28-26):  https://atozsports.com/college-football/florida-gators-news/caleb-banks-talks-biggest-edge-florida-gators-senior-bowl-nfl-draft/

2026 NFL Draft: One prospect to watch at every position during the Panini Senior Bowl (Interior Defensive Line: Caleb Banks, Florida.  Banks is a talented pass rusher with the requisite measurables to succeed. However, he played fewer than 100 snaps in his final season at Florida and fewer than 1,000 over the past five years. Across 2023 and 2024, Banks racked up 53 pressures and six sacks. There is as much at stake regarding his draft stock as any player heading to Mobile this week.) (1-28-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-every-position-panini-senior-bowl 

2026 NFL Draft: Matchups to watch at the Panini Senior Bowl (IOL Jake Slaughter vs. DI Caleb Banks - Slaughter and Banks have gone head-to-head in practice at Florida for the past three years, but that battle moves to center stage this week in Mobile.  Slaughter has been the model of consistency as Florida’s starting center over that span. Since 2023, his 87.0 PFF grade ranks second among all FBS centers, trailing only Jackson Powers-Johnson. He leads that group with a 90.1 run-blocking grade and also sits 10th in pass blocking at 86.8. Currently projected as a third-round pick, Slaughter could elevate his stock significantly with a strong Senior Bowl showing.  Banks may be viewed as a potential first-round pick, but he still has plenty to prove in this setting after appearing in just three games in 2025 due to a foot injury. When healthy, he’s been a disruptive force along Florida’s defensive line, recording 56 pressures over the past three seasons. A productive week of one-on-one reps would go a long way toward reaffirming his first-round case.) (1-28-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-matchups-to-watch-at-the-panini-senior-bowl

Senior Bowl practice takeaways: Who helped (or hurt) their 2026 NFL Draft stock on Day 1 (One of the Americans' best players was Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks, a 6-foot-6, 300-pound, long-armed titan who clearly made up for lost time after playing in just three games for the Gators in 2025. On one play, he shed a block, ran right into the face of Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer, stopped his feet and pumped his fist. In anything but a practice, that would have been a raucous sack. "We were talking [before practice] and we felt like we were the most dominant D-line that the Senior Bowl is probably going to ever see," Banks told CBS Sports post-practice. "We're excited to showcase our talents and go out there and dominate. We got a group of guys, and I just can't wait for you guys to see it on Saturday. It's gonna be fun.") (1-28-26):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-practice-takeaways-2026-nfl-draft-stock-risers-fallers-day-1/

Senior Bowl Day 2 Standouts: First round talent starts to dominate and edge rushers continue to shine (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Going into the Senior Bowl, Banks was the top player on the A to Z Sports big board at 24th overall. He is an explosive player on the interior at 6-5 and 330 pounds with 35″ arms. On day one, he was inconsistent in pass rush drills, winning and losing almost 50/50. On Wednesday, that changed.  Banks was dominant from start to finish on the day, including multiple dominant wins in one-on-ones. The biggest win came in team drills when Banks got a sack on Garrett Nussmeier, and softly set him down on the ground. He looked like a first-round pick, and that’s exactly what this draft class needs.) (1-28-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/senior-bowl-day-2-standouts-caleb-banks-zion-young-gabe-jacas-tyren-montgomery/

NFL Draft intel: Who's poised to boost stock at Senior Bowl? (Will Florida Gators D-lineman Caleb Banks solidify himself as a first-rounder despite injury issue? A broken left foot limited Banks to two games in 2025. The 6-foot-6, 330-pounder logged six tackles this past season after totaling 21 in 12 games in 2024.  Sitting may have been the right move for Banks. Last season, former Kentucky Wildcats DT Deone Walker (6-foot-7, 331 pounds) played with a back injury and had a career-low 37 tackles in 11 games. He fell to the fourth round, where the Buffalo Bills took him with pick No. 109.  "Both are towering human beings," wrote CBS Sports' Josh Edwards in a story published Tuesday. "Walker, like Banks, was regarded as a likely first-round pick prior to his final season and then spent that year playing through injury in Lexington. Walker may be a cautionary tale that benefits Banks." NFL Mock Draft Database projects that Banks is a first-rounder. He could still use an impressive week at the Senior Bowl to prove the injury isn't a concern.) (1-27-26):  https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/nfl_draft_intel_whos_poised_to_boost_stock_at_senior_bowl/s1_13132_43388365

Panini Senior Bowl Watchlist: 5 2026 NFL Draft prospects to monitor (DI Caleb Banks, Florida:  Banks may be a projected first-round pick right now, but he still has a lot to prove at the Senior Bowl. That’s because he only played in three games for the Gators this past season due to a foot injury. Banks has been a very disruptive pass-rusher over the last three years in Gainesville, tallying 56 pressures. Showing off some of that ability this week will go a long way in proving his worthiness of a first-round selection.) (1-27-26):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-panini-senior-bowl-watchlist-5-2026-nfl-draft-prospects-to-monitor

Battle of first round CBs, and Garrett Nussmeier highlight 2026 NFL Draft prospects with most to gain heading into the Senior Bowl (DT Caleb Banks (Florida):  From a pure physical talent perspective, Banks is one of the more gifted defensive players in the entire 2026 class overall. He was limited in 2025 due to injury, which hurt some of his draft hype. Banks has a huge opportunity to wow NFL scouts in attendance with his rare combination of size and explosiveness. The former Gator standout feels like an easy riser heading into the event.) (1-26-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/2026-panini-senior-bowl-battle-of-first-round-cornerbacks-garrett-nussmeier-caleb-banks-nick-singleton-colton-hood/

2026 Senior Bowl: Top NFL draft prospects, QBs, predictions (Which prospect are you most excited to see in Mobile?  Miller: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida. Banks stands out on tape when healthy. But he wasn't healthy this past season after suffering a foot injury in fall camp that ultimately limited him to three games. If he's well enough to participate this week, Banks could reignite the Round 1 buzz he had entering the season. The 6-foot-6, 330-pound nose tackle has a rare speed-to-power combination that would be a must-watch in individual drills against Senior Bowl offensive linemen.) (1-26-26):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/47706764/2026-senior-bowl-nfl-draft-prospects-qbs-predictions


TWENTYMAN: 15 players to watch at the Senior Bow (2. DT Caleb Banks, Florida:  Banks (6-5, 330) has a lot to prove this week in Mobile after playing in just three games for the Gators this past season because of injury. In 2024 he amassed 21 tackles (10 solo) including seven tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery in ten starts.) (1-26-26):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-15-players-to-watch-senior-bowl-bailey-banks-boettcher

Senior Bowl 2026 OL/DL Primer (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida:  Caleb Banks should be the top defensive tackle in Mobile. Banks has true first-round upside as a long, athletic, and agile interior defender who needs to prove he's past an injury that largely derailed his 2025 senior season.) (1-26-26):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2026/01/26/senior-bowl-2026-ol-dl-primer-roster

2026 Senior Bowl Defensive Tackles To Watch: A couple of first round candidates kick their draft process off in Mobile this week (Florida DT Caleb Banks:  96 snaps in 2025. That’s the book right now on Caleb Banks. But when he is at his best, woah buddy. He’s an absolute load with athleticism and length — which makes him feel like a strong first-round candidate in a draft class that lacks the kind of depth you’d ideally covet at the top of the order. Banks has a chance to establish himself as fully healthy and disruptive after logging 29 pressures on 233 pass rush opportunities in 2024. This could be one of the names of the week if he’s firing on all cylinders.) (1-26-26):  https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/2026-senior-bowl-defensive-tackles-to-watch-caleb-banks-lee-hunter-zane-durant-gracen-halton/

2026 NFL Draft: PFSN’s Consensus Top 10 Interior Defensive Linemen Include Peter Woods, Kayden McDonald (3. Caleb Banks, Florida:  There’s little debate on whether or not Caleb Banks is a talented defensive tackle prospect. Instead, it’s exactly where to rank him after his 2025 campaign that’s the point of discussion. Playing in just three games this year due to injury, he received one vote for DT1 but graded fourth and fifth on the other two boards.  From a tools perspective, Banks might be the most prototypical NFL defensive tackle. He has the size, length, and pass-rushing value that scouts drool over when projecting talents at the next level. He’s explosive off the snap with good athleticism in space for an interior lineman, and he has a pass-rushing arsenal that runs deep with good timing, placement, and finesse in his hands. Though Banks is inconsistent in the run game due to a high pad level, the upside is immense.) (1-9-26):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2026-nfl-draft-pfsn-consensus-top-interior-defensive-linemen/


 2026 NFL Draft Defensive Line Rankings: Auburn’s Keldric Faulk & Clemson’s Peter Woods Lead the Pack (Caleb Banks/DT/Florida: Graded by scouts as a second-round prospect entering the season, Banks had his campaign interrupted by injury and played in just two late-season contests. The Florida Gators’ lineman is a tall, big-bodied defensive lineman who measures 6-foot-6 and almost 330 pounds, but he moves like a power forward on the football field and showed pass-rushing skill last year. He’s accepted an invitation to play in the Senior Bowl, which will have a big impact on where he’s eventually selected in the draft.) (12-9-25):  https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-flagship-2026-nfl-draft-defensive-line-rankings-auburns-keldric-faulk-clemsons-peter-woods-lead-the-pack/

Updated 2026 NFL Draft big board for the end of the CFB regular season (35. Caleb Banks DT Florida) (12-2-25):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2025/12/02/2026-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-big-board-update/87554292007/

2026 NFL Draft Rankings: Interior defensive linemen - PFF (2. Caleb Banks, Florida Gators - Big board rank: 14.  Banks is a big, strong, and violent player with the size and strength to be an impactful defensive lineman in the NFL. He brings a strong club move that he relies on to get past blockers and into the backfield as a go-to option. His first step has good burst, but he won't be one of those defensive linemen making chase-down tackles to the outside. His length and strength give him ideal scheme versatility as a nose tackle, 3-technique, or 3-4 defensive end in odd and even fronts, and he is a good run defender, though at times he is too focused on gap-shooting rather than holding his spot. Right now, Banks just wins with power. He must improve his pass-rush diversity and pad level, areas that have held his career pass-rush win rate below 12.0% heading into 2025.) (12-1-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-interior-defensive-line-rankings


 2026 NFL Draft: Early Interior DL big board (3. Caleb Banks, Florida:  Banks has missed most of the 2025 season with a foot injury that required surgery. The big man (6’7”, 265lbs) is one of the few highly versatile guys on this list, and his size and play style look like Arik Armstead. He’s a fluid athlete best-suited for 3T, but he can effectively play on the edge. He could be more stout against the run, but he uses his length well to shed blockers. It’s tough for college guards and centers to block him straight up in protection. Banks has a clear reach advantage, can get skinny to beat a double team, and a high motor to finish on the QB. His measurables could make him a first-round pick if he tests well in the spring.) (11-22-25):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2025/11/22/2026-nfl-draft-early-interior-dl-big-board/87398888007/


Gators' Injury Report Reveals Promising Update on DL Caleb Banks (11-13-25):  https://www.si.com/college/florida/football/gators-injury-report-reveals-promising-update-on-dl-caleb-banks-01k9xdj06az6

2026 NFL Draft: Midseason prospect big board top 50 (28. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida) (11-10-25):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2025/11/10/2026-nfl-draft-midseason-prospect-big-board-top-50/87143496007/

Caleb Banks NFL Draft Profile: Week 11 Scouting Report for the Florida Defensive Tackle (11-8-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/caleb-banks-nfl-draft-week-11-2025/

Caleb Banks NFL Draft Profile: Week 10 Scouting Report for the Florida Defensive Tackle (11-1-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/caleb-banks-nfl-draft-week-10-2025/

Caleb Banks NFL Draft Profile: Week 9 Scouting Report for the Florida Defensive Tackle (10-25-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/caleb-banks-nfl-draft-week-9-2025/



 
2026 NFL Draft Summer Scouting: Interior Defender Overview (Caleb Banks, Florida - Strengths:  Has the frame/build to play 3-4 defensive end and 4-3 defensive tackle.  Powerful player. Club move has good violence.  Stack and shed is quick and efficient in run defense.  Can hold his ground well against single blocks and even combos.  Weaknesses:  Pass rush is based on gap-shooting more than hand usage (but he is improving).  Doesn't turn the tightest corner when executing a rip move.  Sometimes too reliant on upper-body strength and forgets leverage importance.  Slower pursuit to the ball if outside the pocket.  Scouting Summary:  Banks is a big, strong and violent player who has the size and strength potential to be an impactful defensive lineman in the NFL. He brings a strong club move that he relies on to get past blockers and into the backfield as a go-to option. His first step has good burst, but he won't be one of those defensive linemen making chase-down tackles to the outside. His length and strength give him ideal scheme versatility as a nose tackle, 3-technique or 3-4 defensive end for odd and even fronts as a good run defender, though at times he is too focused on gap-shooting for run defense rather than holding his spot.  Right now, Banks just wins with power. He must improve his pass-rush diversity and pad level, areas that have held his career pass-rush win rate below 12.0% heading into 2025.) (9-5-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-draft-summer-scouting-interior-defender-overview

Insider notes on Florida and Arkansas: Draft grades for top prospects ft. Caleb Banks, Taylen Green, & more (Caleb Banks also draws a variety of opinions, though he is an athletic big man. Banks is explosive, moves incredibly well and displays himself as a playmaker, on occasion. Too often he gets tied up in blocks and can be a nonfactor. Scouts I’ve spoken with have him graded anywhere from the early-to-late part of the second day. Banks looked like an unstoppable force against Georgia last season, and if he plays like that every week, he’ll definitely be a top-40 pick.) (9-4-25):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-insider-notes-florida-arkansas-draft-grades-top-prospects-ft-caleb-banks-taylen-green

Unveiling the 2026 NFL Draft All-Prospect team (Caleb Banks:  Caleb Banks plays a bit higher and aims to overwhelm with his sheer size. He produced a 13.0% pressure rate last season, according to TruMedia; 4.5 sacks were the result.) (8-29-25):   https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2026-nfl-draft-all-prospect-team-nfl-stars-of-tomorrow-take-the-field-as-college-football-season-kicks-off/


Top 25 Returning College Football Defensive Tackles: Peter Woods, Dontay Corleone Lead a Disruptive Group (4. Caleb Banks, Florida
2024 PFSN College DT+ Grade: 80.07 (B-).  One of the surprises for the Florida Gators was the return of Caleb Banks and Tyreak Sapp. Both could have gone to the NFL, but they decided to come back for another year. With a daunting schedule ahead, the Gators are thrilled to have talented and veteran players back on the line.  Banks is 6’6″ and 330 pounds, so it’s tough for opposing offense to miss him. He brings good play strength to the Gators defense, and that should help open up plays for his teammates.) (8-4-25):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb/college-football-defensive-tackles-returning-2025-season/

Renner's NFL Draft summer position rankings: Best DTs (Caleb Banks - Player type: Long nose tackle.  Room for improvement: Finding the football.  Early grade: Late Day 2.  Caleb Banks is a giant of a man even by defensive tackle standards. At 6-foot-6 and 329 pounds, he makes offensive tackles trying to block him look small. A lot of guys on tape didn't even know where to begin with even trying to block him. At that size, he can really get off the ball and then brings immense pop into contact. Most of his wins come from one outstretched arm simply tossing an opposing linemen to the side or backwards as he continues on his way.  There's a rawness to his game at this point that's heavily concerning, however. He'll be 24 years old by draft night and 25 by the end of his rookie season, yet still has few moves at his disposal. He's also struggled mightily to produce as a run defender with only 11 run stops over the past two seasons. Even in his best game last season, which came against LSU, Banks got taken 8 yards off the ball one-on-one by a down block from 2025 top-5 pick Will Campbell. His ceiling is enticing, but his floor is also worrisome.) (7-30-25):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/renners-nfl-draft-summer-position-rankings-best-defensive-tackles-for-2026-including-a-clear-cut-no-1/
 
Insider's 2026 NFL draft projections for top 8 DT prospects ft. Keldric Faulk's ceiling, Zane Durant's grade, and more (7. Caleb Banks/Florida:  Many outside the scouting community believe Banks is a surefire first-rounder. Yet talk to those who feed information to NFL decision makers, and you’ll get a different story.  Banks is tall and large as well as athletic and comes with long arms. He stuffs the run well, flashes pass-rush skill and for the most part plays with proper fundamentals. But Banks flashes these skills rather than playing to them every snap. Right now, scouts tell me third round for Banks, yet that could be first round next April if he takes his game to the next level.) (7-28-25):  https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/news-insider-s-2026-nfl-draft-projections-top-8-dt-prospects-ft-keldric-faulk-s-ceiling-zane-durant-s-grade

Florida's Caleb Banks vs. Clemson's Peter Woods: ESPN Debates Best DT in 2026 NFL Draft (7-28-25):  https://www.si.com/college/florida/football/florida-caleb-banks-clemson-peter-woods-espn-best-dt-2026-nfl-draft-01k17k10fbys

College football’s top non-QB playmakers (Caleb Banks, DT, Florida Gators - Vitals: Senior, 6-6, 329 pounds. 2024 stats: 21 tackles (10 solo), 7 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovered.  Previous school: Louisville.  Why he's here: After a strong finish to 2024, Florida has a chance to take another big step this fall. The Gators project well on defense, especially up front with Banks, Tyreak Sapp and George Gumbs Jr. all returning. Banks has started the past two seasons for the Gators after transferring in from Louisville. He shined during Florida's signature home wins against LSU and Ole Miss, recording 3.5 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss, a forced fumble and a fumble recovered in the two-week stretch. He left the regular-season finale against Florida State with an injury.  Banks' size, experience and ability to get to the quarterback make him a breakout candidate in 2025. "I think he'll probably end up being the best interior defensive lineman in the league," a Power 4 offensive coordinator said. "That dude, he's a stud. He can play. Legit.") (5-20-25):  https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/45225888/college-football-2025-top-playmakers

 10 defensive linemen to know for the 2026 NFL Draft (DI Caleb Banks, Florida:  At 6-foot-5 with long arms, Banks has been an excellent pass rusher during his two years with the Gators. The former Louisville Cardinal has tallied 53 pressures since 2023, the most of any returning Power Four interior defender. His 12.7% pressure rate in that span ranks second among all returning defensive tackles in college football.  There’s still work to be done in terms of holding his own in the run game, as Banks has never earned a 70.0 PFF run-defense grade in his career. However, he has a high ceiling and could be a favorite among scouts when the 2026 NFL Draft rolls around.) (5-9-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-defensive-linemen-to-know-2026-nfl-draft

College Football: Top 10 returning interior defensive linemen (Honorable Mention: Caleb Banks, Florida - At 6-foot-5 with long arms, Banks has been a highly productive pass-rusher during his two seasons with the Gators. The former Louisville Cardinal leads all returning Power Four interior defenders with 53 pressures since 2023, while his 12.7% pressure rate ranks second among returning defensive tackles nationwide.  There’s still room for improvement in the run game, as Banks has yet to earn a 70.0 run-defense grade in his career. However, with his length and pass-rushing ability, he has a high ceiling and could be a favorite among scouts leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.) (3-12-25):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-top-10-returning-interior-defensive-linemen-entering-the-2025-season





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