By Ross Jackson
In many ways, a successful season for a rookie is outside of their own control after a certain point. A new player to the league will only get as many opportunities as they carve out for themselves before the season begins.
However, for a first-round pick and a top-ten selection like New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., the chances to impact the game should be plentiful.
Banks In For Immediate Role
The tackle is in line already to be the Saints’ next starting left tackle, the blindside protector for a young quarterback in the backfield. Last season, rookie tackle Taliese Fuaga impressed starting all 17 games at left tackle, but looks to be in line to move back to the right side, his collegiate position.
This allows head coach Kellen Moore and the Saints to keep Banks at his collegiate spot as well, something the club hopes will allow him to be able to hit the ground running as the season begins.
Fuaga Set The Standard For Banks
Last year’s numbers for Fuaga at left tackle were stellar. He allowed six sacks, committed just five penalties, helped to lead the run game to picking up an average of 4.7 yards per carry to the right side between the center and just outside the tight end and helped to pave the way for 22 10-plus yard rushes to the same side.
He did all of this with the confidence and poise of a veteran at the position.
View this post on Instagram
All far from bad for a rookie, especially considering one game in particular, against the Denver Broncos, was a throne in Fuaga’s side. During that Week Seven matchup, he surrendered three of his six sacks on the season, allowing just two the rest of the way.
What Constitutes A Successful Rookie Season For Banks
For Banks, production will be one piece of the puzzle. Fuaga’s durability was another major factor to his rookie-season success. He was available for every game, along with last year’s bookend Trevor Penning. If Banks can remain healthy for 80-100% of the season and produce at a high level, even with a struggle here and there, it’s easy to chart out what a successful season would look like for the rookie.
- 13-17 starts
- Five or fewer sacks
- Five or fewer penalties
- More than 4.5 rushing yards per carry to his side
- 25 or more 10-plus yard runs to his side
Beyond the stats and health, confidence, efficiency and comfort will all play a role in the perception of Banks’ rookie year. Should he achieve all of the above, never appear lost and command the position, much like Fuaga did last year, the trend should only be considered up for Banks.
A Longhorn in the trenches.
Let’s get to work, @Kelvinbanksjr12 ⚜️ pic.twitter.com/a58GktewZC
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) April 26, 2025
