Former Texas Longhorns OT Kelvin Banks Jr. Selected No. 9 Overall in 2025 NFL Draft

The former Texas Longhorns star offensive tackle was selected with the No. 9 overall pick by the New Orleans Saints in the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday night in Green Bay. Banks Jr. becomes the first Longhorn off the board in what hopes to be a record-setting draft for the program.

Banks Jr. declared for the draft in January not too long after the loss to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff Semifinals at the Cotton Bowl.

“I will always bleed burnt orange and cherish the memories I’ve made here,” Banks Jr. wrote. “Thank you Longhorn Nation for everything. I look forward to representing Texas proudly in the next chapter of my journey.”

Banks Jr. ends his Texas career having started in all 42 games he appeared in for the Longhorns. An All-Big 12 First Team selection in 2023, he followed that up by winning the Outland Trophy and the Lombardi Award this season while anchoring Texas’ offensive line.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian said Tuesday when meeting with the media after spring practice that Banks Jr. has a successful NFL career ahead of him.

“As I’ve told everybody, I think this guy’s a premier tackle in the NFL,” Sarkisian said of Banks Jr. “He’s got the right physical measurables. He’s got the right mental makeup. He’s reliable. You can count on him. He’s there every day, he’s emotionally stable, which you have to be at tackle in the NFL. You got to play every play like this. You can’t ride an emotional roller coaster. So again, whoever gets him is going to get a guy that’s probably going to play 10, 12, years in the NFL, knock on wood, barring injury, and have a great career.”

Banks Jr. will now head to the Big Easy where he’ll look to become a franchise stallworth on the offensive line for New Orleans.

Kelvin Banks Jr., the standout offensive tackle from the University of Texas, made headlines as he was selected as the ninth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. This momentous occasion not only marks a significant milestone in Banks’ career but also emphasizes the growing trend of talented offensive linemen being recognized early in the draft due to their critical role in the success of professional teams.

Early Life and High School Career

Born in 2003 in the suburbs of Houston, Texas, Kelvin Banks Jr. grew up immersed in a sports-centric environment. His father, a former college football player, nurtured his love for the game from a young age. Banks attended Summer Creek High School in Houston, where his athletic prowess quickly became evident. Under the guidance of head coach Sam Parker, he excelled at left tackle, showcasing strength, agility, and a high football IQ.

By his junior year, Banks had garnered attention from college scouts, earning All-State honors. He capped off his senior year as a five-star recruit, receiving offers from numerous elite colleges across the nation. The longhorns were able to secure his commitment due to a rich tradition of developing offensive linemen, which played a significant role in his decision to don the burnt orange and white.

College Career at Texas

Kelvin Banks Jr. arrived at the University of Texas in 2021 and quickly made his mark as a freshman. He started immediately, displaying poise and technical skills that belied his age. Texas fans and coaches alike were impressed by his ability to hold the edge against some of the best pass rushers in the NCAA. During his three seasons in Austin, Banks became a cornerstone of the offensive line, helping the Longhorns navigate through challenging SEC competition after their transition from the Big 12.

While at Texas, Banks developed his game under the tutelage of renowned offensive line coach Kyle Flood. His natural athleticism combined with a relentless work ethic turned him into one of the premier offensive tackles in college football. Recognized for his exceptional footwork and hand placement, he played a pivotal role in the Longhorns’ rushing offense and quarterback protection schemes. His efforts did not go unnoticed, as he was a unanimous All-American and received multiple awards, including the prestigious Outland Trophy, awarded annually to the nation’s best interior lineman.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approached, Banks was viewed as a top-10 prospect. His impressive collegiate performance and measurables—standing 6’4” and weighing 320 pounds—made him an attractive option for numerous teams in need of offensive line help. In the weeks leading up to the draft, all eyes were on him, with analysts praising his balance, technique, and ability to diagnose defensive fronts. His performance at the NFL Combine, where he clocked strong numbers in the 40-yard dash and showcased tremendous strength in bench press drills, cemented his status as a premier prospect.

On draft day, the Arizona Cardinals were among several teams looking to bolster their offensive line following a difficult previous season that saw the team struggle to protect their franchise quarterback. The decision to select Banks at the ninth pick signals their commitment to building a solid offensive front and protecting their investment in the quarterback position.

Impact with the Arizona Cardinals

Landing in Arizona, Banks is poised to make an immediate impact on the Cardinals’ offensive line. His skill set aligns perfectly with head coach Jonathan Gannon’s vision for an aggressive and dynamic offense. With a commitment to both the run and pass, Banks is expected to play a critical role in allowing the Cardinals’ playmakers, including their star quarterback, to thrive.

The Cardinals’ offensive line has faced challenges over the past few seasons, with injuries and inconsistency hampering performance. However, the addition of Banks is expected to stabilize the unit. His ability to anchor against bull rushes and excel in zone-blocking schemes makes him an invaluable asset as the Cardinals aim to implement a more versatile offensive strategy.

Additionally, having a player of Banks’ caliber can enhance the development of younger players on the line, providing them with a model of work ethic, technical skill, and team-first mentality. In an era where offensive linemen are often relegated to being unsung heroes, Banks is determined to change that narrative by showcasing his talents on the grandest stage.

Expectations and Future Prospects

With the weight of high expectations on his shoulders as a top-ten draft pick, Banks is ready to embrace the challenge. He has expressed excitement about working with the Cardinals’ coaching staff and integrating into the team’s culture. His collegiate experience at Texas, where he faced elite defensive talent week in and week out, has equipped him to handle the pressures of the NFL.

Off the field, Banks is committed to community engagement and has already begun developing programs to give back. Known for his humility and sense of responsibility, he hopes to inspire young athletes by actively participating in youth clinics and mentoring programs.

As the 2025 NFL season unfolds, all eyes will be on Kelvin Banks Jr. His journey from a promising high school athlete to a first-round draft pick is a testament to his dedication and talent. As he navigates the challenges and triumphs of professional football, fans and analysts alike will watch closely as this young talent shows what he can accomplish in the NFL. With his foundation built on hard work, resilience, and a passion for the game, Banks is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the league, one that may well echo for years to come.