The New Orleans Saints made a bold statement in the 2025 NFL Draft. Selecting Kelvin Banks Jr., the standout offensive tackle from Texas, with the ninth overall pick. Banks arrives in New Orleans with high expectations and a reputation as one of college football’s most decorated linemen.
A Proven Winner Joins the Saints
Banks started for the Texas Longhorns, starting all 42 games during his three-year college career. He earned the 2024 Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award, confirming his status as the nation’s top interior lineman. His reliability and leadership anchored Texas’ offensive line, and he played through an ankle injury to help his team reach the College Football Playoff semifinals.
@abc13houston The Texans need to improve their offensive line. Humble’s Kelvin Banks Jr., a UT standout, might just be the Texans’ #1 pick in the NFL Draft Tomorrow night beginning at 7 on ABC13.
Head coach Kellen Moore wasted no time testing Banks’ versatility. At rookie minicamp, Banks took snaps at left tackle, left guard, right tackle, and right guard. Moore said the staff will continue to move Banks around to find his best fit, but the rookie’s willingness to play anywhere stands out. Banks said, “I’ll play wherever they put me. If I’m one of the top five linemen on the field and I get the chance to start and earn that right, then I’m ready to play wherever they assign me”.
The Saints are entering a new era with Moore at the helm and a roster full of young talent. Banks’ arrival signals a commitment to building a dominant offensive line. His four-year, $27.7 million contract, fully guaranteed with a $16.8 million signing bonus, shows the franchise’s belief in his talent and leadership. Banks joins a group that already features recent first-round picks like Taliese Fuaga and Erik McCoy, giving the Saints a young, formidable front.
Banks stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 315 pounds. Scouts praise his athleticism, quick feet, and ability to play in any scheme. He excels at mirroring pass rushers, identifying stunts, and driving defenders off the line. While some analysts note areas for improvement-such as pad level and sustaining blocks-Banks’ football intelligence and work ethic suggest he will quickly adapt to the NFL.
Banks’ to the NFL has been marked by hard work and resilience. His arrival in New Orleans gives the Saints a cornerstone for their offensive line. Fans and coaches alike are excited. His toughness and versatility will help the team bounce back.
With Kelvin Banks Jr. in the trenches, the Saints have a foundation to protect their quarterback. Power their run game for years to come. The new era of Saints football has begun, and Banks is ready to lead the charge.