Florida Gators defensive tackle Caleb Banks is turning heads as one of the top prospects in this year's NFL Draft class. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 330 pounds, Banks is a powerhouse on the field, expected to be a first-round pick. But there's a catch: his health.
Banks' journey hasn't been without its bumps. He broke his foot early in the 2025 season, requiring surgery and limiting his play to just three games.
The injury bug bit again right before the Scouting Combine, leading to a second surgery within six months. These back-to-back setbacks are raising eyebrows among scouts and teams.
But health isn't the only concern. Analysts Nate Tice and Charles McDonald have pointed out another surprising issue: Banks' tackling ability.
Despite his size and athletic prowess, tackling remains an area for improvement. However, his knack for diagnosing plays and defeating blocks keeps him in high regard.
Even a slight uptick in tackling could elevate him to a top-tier NFL starter.
Banks' college career offers a limited sample size. He started at Louisville in 2021, playing sparingly before transferring to Florida in 2023.
His second season with the Gators was his best, notching 21 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks. Overall, his collegiate stats include 48 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks.
The buzz around Banks largely stems from his imposing size and raw athleticism. These traits suggest he has the potential to thrive at the professional level, making him a prospect worth watching as the draft approaches.