Vikings Select Florida DT Caleb Banks With 18th Pick: Instant Grade
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- The Minnesota Vikings selected defensive tackle Caleb Banks from the University of Florida with the 18th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, surprising many who expected them to choose safety Dillon Thieneman or wide receiver Makai Lemon.
- Banks had medical concerns related to a foot injury that caused him to miss most of last season and required surgery in March, but he is expected to be cleared for full football activities by June.
- The pick addresses a clear need for the Vikings after releasing Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, pairing Banks with Jalen Redmond in the defensive tackle position under coach Brian Flores.
- Banks offers significant upside due to his size (6'6", 327 pounds) and explosiveness, with a strong college record as a run defender and pass rusher, though the pick carries some risk due to his injury history.
- With Banks selected in the first round, the Vikings are likely to focus on defensive backs, pass catchers, center, and running back in the second and third rounds, as they continue to address multiple team needs.
