Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
He may be one of the least talked about first round picks in recent New Orleans Saints memory, but he has the chance to be one of the most important in recent history.
No. 9 overall pick and offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. is leaping right into a pivotal role in the Saints offense as the team’s starting left tackle.
He saw his first game action on Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers and impressed in his debut.
Banks was on the field for 20 offensive snaps and did not allow a single pressure on 12 pass blocking reps, per Pro Football Focus.
Every Kelvin Banks rep vs the Chargers pic.twitter.com/fn0JoL54bX
— kaj (@kadinjanisch) August 12, 2025
Even former Saints left tackle Terron Armstead, who announced his retirement this offseason, chimed in with a message of support and enthusiasm around the young lineman.
I see elite signs of feet and balance!!! There’s still a ton for him to work on and it will be growing pains but Kelvin’s foundation is fire!!! 🔥⚜️ https://t.co/3xGDg9cgGw
— T. Stead 🎤🎧 (@T_Armstead72) August 12, 2025
So, overall, it was an impressive debut for the rookie. He will now look to follow it up with another strong week of practice before matching up with the Jacksonville Jaguars next weekend.
