Caleb Banks — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

The Chargers used a third-round pick on Oregon's Jamaree Caldwell (86th overall) and signed multiple defensive tackles to one-year deals in free agency, but more reinforcements to their defensive line will be needed in 2026. The Chargers ranked near the bottom of the league in YPC allowed (4.7, 27th) in 2024. Banks (6'6", 329 pounds) finished last season with seven tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks with 3.5 of those sacks occuring in his final two games against Ole Miss and LSU, and he has the traits, athleticism, and upside to go much earlier than this.

Banks is a taller prospect that throws his weight around. There is a stack and shed element to his game. After recording 4.5 sacks this past season, Banks will need to take his game to another level. The Jets had been linked to defensive tackles leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft, but they did not select one this year.

The Bengals surprisingly did not address defensive tackle in this year's draft, so it looms as a huge need entering 2026. They need someone with Banks' great 6-6, 325-pound size in the middle of the line. He showed flashes last season, and if he can continue to progress in 2025 and increase his sack total (4.5), he has the traits to be a top-20 pick.

Banks flashed down the stretch last season and with some further polish could turn into a realistic option in the first round, given his size and excellent quickness. Pairing him alongside Walter Nolen III could form quite the tandem for the Cardinals.

Some high-priced extensions are likely in the pipeline for a Denver defense that broke out in a big way last season, with edge rusher Nik Bonitto and defensive end Zach Allen each due for deals that should be near the top of their respective markets. The Broncos can continue to fortify their front with Banks, a 6-6, 325-pound transfer from Louisville whose length and explosiveness allows him to create havoc for opposing quarterbacks.