Notes from scouting report on Vikings 2026 NFL Draft pick Caleb Banks

With the 18th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings dropped a bit of a shocker when they selected Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks. The Gator defender missed most of the season but saved his draft stock with arguably the best practice of any player, regardless of position, at the Senior Bowl.

Despite him saving his draft stock, he remains a pick that will be controversial until he steps on the field and proves himself. All we have to go on is what the film has shown us, and here on Vikings Wire, we have some notes from Garrett Burroughs' scouting report to share.

Burroughs wrote, "For someone of his frame (6'6, 325 lbs), he is surprisingly quick and nimble on his feet. This quickness, paired with his raw power, often gets interior offensive linemen off balance from the jump. His athleticism also allows him to line up outside, which is sure to give defensive coordinators nightmares. His motor runs hot, which isn't always the case for nose tackles. His hands landed firmly, and his placement got better as the year went on."

He also adds, "Banks gets asecond-round grade from me, with the understanding that he would likely benefit from sitting early to learn the nuances of pass rush and form tackling."

Banks will have the benefit of playing beside Jonathan Greenard, Dallas Turner, and Jalen Redmond. Having them around him, and Brian Flores using him in the best spots for success, is going to help him make an impact sooner rather than later if he is meant to be the guy for them.

Was it a reach? Yes, but if he plays well, no one will remember that part of his story.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: NFL Draft: Scouting notes on Vikings new DL Caleb Banks