Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr. makes final NFL Draft decision
Texas football going through massive changes in less than 48 hours after losing the Cotton Bowl. The Longhorns now know the fate of 2025 star left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr.
Texas’ Top blindside protector announced he enters the NFL draftand ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller confirmed the move on Sunday. That means projected starting quarterback Arch Manning needs a new blindside protector.
Banks posted on Instagram to share his appreciation for Texas, saying “I knew I was part of something special.” He thanked head coach Steve Sarkisian and offensive line coach Kyle Flood for believing in him. He added that he was proud to “bleed burnt orange” during his time in Austin.
The 6-foot-4, 320-pounder enters the league as a unanimous All-American selection. He also heads into the league as the winner of the Outland Trophy, given annually to the nation’s top offensive lineman. Finally, Banks makes his decision just before Wednesday’s deadline for underclassmen not playing in the national title game to declare for the draft.
Texas has a huge hole to fill in Kelvin Banks Jr. for the NFL
Related Texas Football NewsThe article continues below
Banks are likely to attract a lot of attention from various franchises. Longtime ESPN NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. designed by Banks will become a top 10 choice. He is expected to emerge as one of the first tackles on the first night of the draft.
Texas, however, has a huge hole to fill with his departure. The Longhorns have already been called upon to adjust their offensive line. Opposing defenses have battered this unit in the Longhorns’ last four games. The Buckeyes pounded pass protection with four sacks.
Sarkisian and Flood may consider moving to right over Cam Williams. Williams, however, was the tackle who delivered the final Quinn Evers sack that ended as a score for Ohio State. Texas may have to dive to the portal to find Banks’ replacement — plus give Manning the comfort of knowing someone experienced has his back.
Banks is not expected to be the only Texas student leaving Austin. Evers is also expected to declare early. Leading wide receiver Matthew Golden is another who could make it to the NFL.
2025-01-12 23:12:00
