Longhorns left tackle Kelvin Banks named Lombardi Award semifinalist

Texas Football left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. has been named one of 12 semifinalists for the Lombardi Award, announced Thursday by the Rotary Club of Houston. This award honors the most outstanding college football lineman who exemplifies exceptional performance and ability, while embodying the character and discipline that Vince Lombardi championed throughout his life.

Three Longhorns have previously won the Lombardi Award: Brian Orakpo in 2008, Tony Degrate in 1984, and Kenneth Sims in 1981. Additionally, nine other Longhorns have been finalists, including Justin Blalock (2006), Rodrique Wright (2005), Derrick Johnson (2004), Cory Redding (2002), Doug Dawson (1983), Steve McMichael (1979), Brad Shearer (1977), Bill Wyman (1973), and Jerry Sisemore (1972).

Banks, a third-year offensive lineman from Humble, Texas, has played and started in 35 games for the Longhorns. He anchors an offensive line recognized on the Joe Moore Award midseason honor roll. This season, Banks has earned multiple national honors, including the Outland Trophy’s National Player of the Week on October 15, and SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week on September 30 and October 14. Before the season, Banks was named preseason First-Team All-America by the Associated Press, CBS Sports, ESPN, Sporting News, and The Athletic. He was also honored on the preseason First-Team All-SEC by the media and league’s coaches and was listed on the Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award preseason watch lists.

Under Banks’ blocking, UT’s offense has excelled in several statistical categories. Texas ranks 10th nationally in completion percentage (68.7%), 12th in team passing efficiency (161.5), 13th in passing offense (294.8 yards per game), 16th in scoring offense (37.6 points per game), and 16th in total offense (453.1 yards per game). Texas quarterbacks have thrived, with Quinn Ewers being named a Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Top 10 Finalist and making the Davey O’Brien QB Class of 2024.

The Lombardi Award, in its 51st year, has been awarded in Houston since its inception. This year’s award dinner will be held on December 11, with proceeds supporting cancer research and families and patients battling cancer.