Overview

• Kelvin Banks Jr., a three-year starter at Texas and winner of the 2024 Outland and Lombardi Awards, was chosen by the Saints with the ninth pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
• The Saints opted for Banks over a quarterback, extending their 54-year streak of not drafting a QB in the first round, despite Derek Carr's ongoing shoulder issues.
• Banks will compete with Trevor Penning, whose fifth-year option was declined, for a starting tackle role in an effort to strengthen the Saints' offensive line.
• This marks the second consecutive year the Saints have used their first-round pick on an offensive tackle, following Taliese Fuaga in 2024.
• The team aims to rebuild after a 5-12 season and a four-year playoff drought, focusing on immediate contributors to improve their performance.