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Draft grades for each Florida Gators pick in the 2026 NFL Draft
TL;DR
The Florida Gators had a historic 2026 NFL Draft, with nine players selected, marking the first time the program had a pick in each round. Defensive tackle Caleb Banks was the top selection at No. 18 overall by the Minnesota Vikings.
Key points
- Florida Gators had nine players drafted in 2026 NFL Draft
- Caleb Banks was selected No. 18 overall by the Minnesota Vikings
- Jake Slaughter and Austin Barber were also among the top picks
- First time in program history with a pick in each round
- Draft selections reflect teams' focus on versatility and positional value
Mentioned in this story
Minnesota Vikings
Florida GatorsCaleb BanksJake SlaughterAustin Barber
Florida football was expected to represent well at the 2026 NFL Draft with nine players invited to the combine back in March. The Gators made it by producing a selection in each round for the first time in program history.
For the Orange and Blue, several prospects enter the draft as multiple-year starters at the collegiate level; a few rose through posting impressive marks during pre-draft evaluations. Each heard their names called at some points during the three-day event, with defensive tackle Caleb Banks â who was selected No. 18 overall by the Minnesota Vikings â leading the way.
The first three picks from Florida were players from along the front: offensive linemen Jake Slaughter and Austin Barber followed Banks off the board. The trio's selections reflect how front offices are prioritizing roster construction. Versatility, positional value and scheme fit fuel decision-making as teams look for an edge.
Florida Gators draft picks
Round 1
- Caleb Banks - Defensive Tackle
- Grade: B-
- Selected by Minnesota Vikings | Pick No. 18Analysis: Banks' athleticism and scheme versatility theoretically make him a strong fit in Brian Flores' defense. However, given his injury history and inconsistency. Many saw this as an unnecessary reach.
Round 2
- Jake Slaughter - Center
- Grade: A
- Selected by Los Angeles Chargers | Pick No. 63: Slaughter's football IQ and All-American status make him a viable plug-and-play selection. It's a high-floor pick for the Chargers who need stability at the position.
Q&A
Who were the top Florida Gators players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The top Florida Gators player selected was defensive tackle Caleb Banks at No. 18 overall by the Minnesota Vikings.
How many players did the Florida Gators have drafted in 2026?
The Florida Gators had nine players drafted in the 2026 NFL Draft.
What positions did the Florida Gators draft picks play in 2026?
The Florida Gators' draft picks in 2026 included offensive linemen Jake Slaughter and Austin Barber, along with defensive tackle Caleb Banks.
What is significant about the Florida Gators' 2026 NFL Draft performance?
The significance lies in the Gators having a selection in each round for the first time in program history.
