Texas Star OT Kelvin Banks Jr. Declares for NFL Draft, Projected Top-10 Pick

Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, opting to forgo his senior season and capitalize on his rising stock as one of college football’s premier linemen. The announcement came on the heels of Texas’ 28-14 loss to Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl, a College Football Playoff semifinal matchup. Banks Jr., standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 320 pounds, is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the upcoming draft and is expected to be the first offensive tackle selected, with many analysts projecting him as a top-10 pick.

Banks Jr.’s résumé speaks for itself. He earned All-American honors in 2024 and was awarded the prestigious Outland Trophy, given annually to the nation’s best offensive lineman. A former 5-star recruit out of Humble Summer Creek High School in the Houston area, Banks Jr. was ranked as the No. 30 overall prospect in the 2022 recruiting class by 247Sports. His journey from an elite high school recruit to a dominant college player has showcased his immense potential and readiness for the next level.

Scouts rave about Banks Jr.’s skill set, which is tailor-made for a franchise left tackle. He possesses rare athleticism, superb lateral movement, quickness in short areas, and excellent hip flexibility. His hand placement and ability to play with leverage make him a nightmare for opposing defenders. Equally impressive is his ability to execute blocks at the second level, making him a valuable asset in both pass protection and the run game. During the Cotton Bowl matchup against Ohio State, Banks Jr. posted a Pro Football Focus College grade of 86.4, allowing just one pressure on 47 pass-blocking snaps, further solidifying his status as a top draft prospect.

With his combination of physical traits, technical ability, and consistent production, Kelvin Banks Jr. has everything NFL teams look for in a cornerstone left tackle. As he prepares for the draft, Banks Jr. is poised to make an immediate impact at the professional level and fulfill the immense promise he has shown throughout his career at Texas.