Mark Hoffman / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

New Orleans Saints Make Major Kelvin Banks Jr. Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Taylor Hartman | Last updated May 10, 2025 12:00 PM ET

The New Orleans Saints have officially locked in their newest cornerstone on the offensive line.

According to multiple reports, the Saints have signed first-round pick Kelvin Banks Jr. to a four-year, $27.73 million contract, securing the former Texas Longhorns standout as a key piece of their future. The deal is fully guaranteed and includes a $16.8 million signing bonus, slightly above the projected slot value for his draft position.

Banks, selected ninth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, arrives in New Orleans with an impressive résumé. The six-foot-five, 315-pound left tackle started all 42 games during his three seasons at Texas, earning the 2024 Outland Trophy as the nation’s top interior lineman and the Lombardi Award for his dominance in the trenches. He was also a unanimous All-American and twice named SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week, solidifying his reputation as one of the best blockers in college football.

The Saints, coming off a 5-12 season, are looking to rebuild their offensive front, and Banks is expected to compete for a starting role immediately. His versatility allows him to play either tackle or guard, giving New Orleans flexibility as they reshape their protection scheme.

With Banks now officially in the fold, the Saints hope his presence will help stabilize an offensive line that struggled last season. If his college career is any indication, he could be a game-changer in New Orleans.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: