Former Florida Gator Caleb Banks Emerges as a ‘Top Riser’ at NFL Combine

Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks was identified as one of the biggest standouts from the opening day of workouts at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, according to ESPN analyst Matt Miller.

Banks tied for the top grade among defensive tackles at the event with a 6.39, matching Kayden McDonald of Ohio State. NFL Next Gen Stats placed him fifth overall with a total score of 71 and assigned him an athleticism score of 77.

“Banks didn’t need to finish the on-field workouts to rank as one of Thursday’s winners,” Miller said. “The 6-foot-6, 327-pound defensive tackle impressed with a 32-inch vertical jump and a 5.05-second 40-yard dash. Banks missed most of last season due to a foot injury, but his potential is extremely high. His performance Thursday may have pushed him into first-round discussion.”

A native of Detroit, Michigan, Banks transferred to Florida in 2023 after two seasons at Louisville. During his first year with the Gators, he played in all 12 games, making 11 starts, and totaled 19 tackles (seven solo), 1.5 tackles for loss, and one sack. In 2024, across 10 starts, he recorded 21 tackles (10 solo), seven tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles.

Banks entered the 2025 season on the watch lists for both the Chuck Bednarik Award and the Bronko Nagurski Award, honors presented annually to the nation’s top defensive player. As Miller noted, a foot injury limited him to just three games, which impacted his draft outlook. A strong showing at the combine was essential to revive first-round consideration, and he delivered.

Caleb Banks Combine Results

• 40-yard dash: 5.04 seconds (8th among DTs)

• 10-yard split: 1.76 seconds (9th)

• Vertical jump: 32 inches (7th)

• Broad jump: 9 feet 6 inches (2nd)

Banks did not take part in the 3-cone drill, 20-yard shuttle, or bench press.