April 23, 2026, 10:59 p.m. ET
The Minnesota Vikings made perhaps the most assertive selection in the opening round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday night. The team chose Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks at No. 18 to bolster a unit in need of additional depth and interior presence.
Banks touts the ability to fit in both three- and four-man fronts — a level of versatility rare for his physical profile. Film from his 2024 campaign paints a picture of Banks as a two-gap defender who can wreck the trenches. His ability to penetrate gaps and handle double teams can be instantly impactful for Brian Flores’ defense; Flores covets defenders who can play multiple roles as he leans on shifting odd and even fronts and generating pressure through disguising looks.
While the upside is palpable, Banks’ selection carries a significant risk for Minnesota. The 6-foot-6-inch, 327-pound defensive end played in just three games during the 2025 season following a host of foot injuries. For a player of Banks’ size, history likely invoked trepidation for many teams, but not the Vikings.
Despite the health concerns, his ceiling remains star caliber — the 23-year-old has drawn comparisons to Javon Kinlaw and Arik Armstead.
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