2026 NFL Draft Prospect Debate: Florida DT Caleb Banks’ unique profile creates fascinating divide
One of the more fascinating prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft is Florida Gators defensive tackle Caleb Banks, and our staff is very split on his projection.
The NFL Draft is less than two weeks away, and there are some interesting prospect debates.
While consensus is the best measure for each individual player, given the wisdom of crowds, being above or below consensus can highlight the positives and negatives of each prospect.
Defensive tackle doesn’t have the greatest depth in the world this year. There isn’t a single consensus first-round pick at the position. the player with the most potential is Caleb Banks of the Florida Gators. Even with that potential, foot injuries have many analysts split on him at the next level.
AJ Schulte and I, Tyler Forness, are split on many prospects. We’ve debated on Oregon Ducks safety Dillon Thieneman, USC Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon, and Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., Banks is the next up.
The case for Caleb Banks
Tyler Forness’ ranking: 17th overall
If you could guarantee that Banks would be healthy, he’d be a slam-dunk first-round pick. Finding players who are good movers at such a large size isn’t an easy thing to do. Banks is 6-6 and 327 pounds, while being explosive off the snap with consistency.
It’s not just the size and athleticism that make a difference for Banks; he understands how to use his unique frame. His 35″ arms are an incredible weapon when dealing with blockers. He understands how to keep blockers at bay and peeking over the top.
Banks is also explosive as a pass rusher. His quick first step paired with his long arms allow Banks to get quick penetration. It’s a major reason why he’s so valuable at this spot. The only concern that would kick him down the board is the multiple injuries to his left foot. If those pass the medical checks, Banks is a no-brainer. Just watch the LSU tape.
The case against Caleb Banks
AJ Schulte’s ranking: 23rd overall
Caleb Banks has some of the highest highs of any prospect in this draft class. That LSU film is one of the best games of any prospect in the draft. I love his explosiveness for his size. I think he’s light on his feet for a 330-pound big man, and he’s capable of shooting gaps at a good level. He pairs that well with plenty of power, as his heavy hands generate plenty of knockback and jolt blockers. To Banks’s credit, he rarely loses ground even against double teams when he’s fully engaged.
However, there are a few things that have dropped him on my big board. On the field, he’s not been a productive run defender, as he misses a ton of tackles by leaving his feet often. Additionally, I think his pad level can come and go as games wear on, leaving him more susceptible to get overwhelmed late in games. As a pass rusher, I love his movement skills, but his move set is more or less confined to a bull rush with some occasional flashes of other moves. His hands are wild and erratic, but there was an improvement from 2024 to the brief flashes of 2025.
Off the field, Banks will be an older prospect (turns 25 his rookie season). Additionally, he has a very concerning set of foot injuries that are a glaring red flag due to their persistence. I think the upside is still worth banking on, but I would feel more comfortable doing so later in the draft.
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