The New Orleans Saints are already seeing signs of a promising rookie season from Kelvin Banks Jr. Drafted ninth overall in 2025, Banks entered the NFL with high expectations. The former Texas Longhorns standout immediately drew attention during the preseason. Observers are taking note of his technique, size, and agility, suggesting he could be a cornerstone for the Saints’ offensive line.
Banks’ first few practices and game snaps have been impressive. According to Harrison Simeon of Crescent City Sports, he could be next in the lineage of Saints linemen like Willie Roaf, Terron Armstead, and Ryan Ramczyk. His talent “is more than sufficient to reach the Saints’ all-time room of protectors,” Simeon said. With injuries and inexperience across the offensive line, Banks will be counted on to be a difference maker.
Preseason Performance
In the preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers, Banks immediately made an impact. He allowed zero pressures on 12 pass-blocking snaps against a formidable defensive front. Banks earned a grade of 84.9 from Pro Football Focus, second among rookie linemen.
He “looked the part of a top-10 draft pick,” said Saints Wire’s John Sigler, “showing excellent footwork and balance in pass protection.” His effort didn’t go unnoticed by the Saints’ coaches. “Kelvin’s done a really nice job adapting to our system quickly.”
Banks also showed versatility, moving effectively in run-blocking schemes. His ability to adjust to different defensive alignments makes him a valuable asset early in his rookie season.
A Star on the Rise
Analysts are already projecting Banks as a potential long-term star. His combination of size, agility, and technical proficiency stands out. The Saints’ investment in him appears justified, especially given their need for stability along the offensive line.
Patrick McAvoy urges fans to recognize his upside. After Banks followed up his performance against the Chargers with another clean sheet against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, he’s convinced. “Banks hasn’t looked overmatched in the slightest,” he said. “Instead, he has dominated when he’s been on the field.”
Saints Gamble Could Pay Off Big
There was some surprise when Banks was drafted back in April. New Orleans was expected to take a quarterback, offensive talent on the perimeter, or a defensive playmaker. However, the Saints put their faith in Banks. With an inexperienced quarterback likely under center, the offensive line has to hold up.
With just two preseason games under his belt, Kelvin Banks Jr. has made a strong first impression. He’s shown skill and adaptability, signaling his transition from college to the NFL’s higher level of speed, strength, and complexity shouldn’t take long. His work ethic could make him one of the league’s premier offensive linemen.
After years of frustration with picks who haven’t panned out, the Saints now have reason for optimism at a position of need. If Banks maintains this level of play, he could become a defining piece of Kellen Moore’s offense, providing protection and consistency for years to come.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Saints Rookie Kelvin Banks Jr Emerges as Preseason Star on Offensive Line appeared first on Heavy Sports.