The Vikings snagged a very big, very strong defensive tackle with the 18th overall pick in the 2026 draft with Caleb Banks out of Florida. Here’s everything you need to know.
Stats & Accolades
- 2021 (Louisville): (1 game played), redshirted
- 2022 (Louisville): (6 games played), 2 tackles, sack, forced fumble
- 2023 (Florida): (12 games played, 11 starts), 19 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, sack, blocked kick
- 2024 (Florida): (12 games played, 10 starts), 21 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, pass breakup, 2 forced fumbles
- 2025 (Florida): (3 games played, 3 starts), season-ending injury
What the Vikings are getting:
Massive interior defender with elite length and measurables that do not grow on trees. That length paired with an explosive first step allows Banks to get into the chest of linemen suddenly and violently where he’s able to control the action from the jump. Banks plays with good pad
level for his height and delivers real knockback power. However, his motor burns hot and dies fast if he does not win within the first few moments following the snap. Second wave rush attempts and cleanup sacks won’t be abundant. Still, a team will be banking on dominant traits that could lead to a number of plays being snuffed out before they ever begin.
Strengths
- Plays with a strength and power that fits his monolithic size
- Explosive first step on top of length allow him to get into the body of offensive linemen first
- Notable closing speed between winning rep and taking down the quarterback
- Will shock blockers with power behind his length
Weakness
- Season-ending injury took all but three games in his final collegiate season
- Does not disengage with haste to quickly shut running lanes
- Does not have a long-lasting motor, loses steam fast
Athletic Testing/Measurables
- Height: 6’6”
- Weight: 327 pounds
- 40-yard dash: 5.04 seconds
- 10-yard split: 1.76 seconds
- Vertical jump: 32 inches
- Broad jump: 9 feet, 6 inches
- 3-cone drill: N/A
- Short shuttle: N/A
- Bench Press: N/A
