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Vikings Draft Banks: First DT Off Board
24 Apr
Summary
- Banks was the first defensive tackle selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- A foot injury limited Banks to only three games last season.
- Despite injury concerns, Banks has notable physical traits and culture contributions.
The Minnesota Vikings made a notable selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, picking Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks with the 18th overall selection. Banks was the first defensive tackle to be drafted.
Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 327 pounds, Banks presented a strong physical profile. He entered the 2025 season with considerable anticipation, having shown flashes of dominance in 2024 with seven tackles for loss. However, a foot injury significantly hampered his availability, restricting him to only three games last season and affecting his performance during NFL scouting events.
Despite a career marked by muted production, with 48 tackles over two seasons at Louisville and three at Florida, Banks garnered praise from teammates and coaches for his cultural impact. His athleticism and potential, when healthy, made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to add to their defensive line.
