Could Caleb Banks Slip Out of the First Round in the 2026 NFL Draft?
As the buzz around the 2026 NFL Draft intensifies, Florida Gators fans are eagerly watching to see where their top talent will land. The Gators, once a powerhouse in producing NFL stars, have seen a dip in first-round selections lately.
Ricky Pearsall was the last Gator to hear his name called on day one. But the tide might be turning with the emergence of defensive tackle Caleb Banks.
Banks' journey to the draft spotlight hasn't been straightforward. Despite only suiting up for three games in 2025, his previous performances and a standout showing at the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl have catapulted him into first-round discussions. However, his draft stock hit a speed bump when renowned analyst Mel Kiper Jr. excluded him from his latest first-round mock draft.
Banks' Path to the Draft
After transferring from the Louisville Cardinals, Banks quickly made his mark with the Gators. Over two seasons, he racked up 40 tackles, eight tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and forced two fumbles. Though his recent season was limited, his Senior Bowl performance reminded scouts of his potential.
Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighing 329 pounds, Banks combines size and power in a way that disrupts both passing and running plays. To cement his status as a first-round pick, Banks needs to impress at the 2026 NFL Combine. While raw testing numbers might not be his forte, his drill performances will be crucial.
If Banks shines, teams like the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans, picking in the mid-to-late first round, could see him as a valuable addition. His future hinges on this week's performance, making it a pivotal moment in his journey to the NFL.