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Power 4 OC: Florida's Caleb Banks could be SEC's best defensive lineman

79417-removebg-preview (1)by: Corey Bender05/22/25Corey_Bender
Caleb Banks
(© Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)

Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Banks continues to earn national attention ahead of the 2025 season, as ESPN recently named him one of the top non-quarterback playmakers to watch this year.

Banks has been a starter on Florida’s defensive line for the past two seasons after transferring from Louisville. His size, strength and quickness have made him a major force up front, catapulting him into the first-round draft discussion for next spring.

During the 2024 season, Banks helped anchor the Gators’ defense and played a big role in two huge home wins over LSU and Ole Miss. In those games, Banks totaled 3.5 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

“The Gators project well on defense, especially up front with Banks, Tyreak Sapp and George Gumbs Jr. all returning,” ESPN said this week. “Banks has started the past two seasons for the Gators after transferring in from Louisville… Banks’ size experience and ability to get to the quarterback make him a breakout candidate in 2025.”

In the same article, one Power Four offensive coordinator didn’t hold back in praising Banks.

“I think he’ll probably end up being the best interior defensive lineman in the league. That dude, he’s a stud. He can play. Legit,” the source said.

Banks missed the end of the 2024 season with an injury but is now fully healthy. With him back on the field, Florida’s defensive line should be one of the strongest in the SEC.

As the Gators aim to take a big step forward, all eyes will be on Banks to lead the way.

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