Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning’s succinct message—”NOLA getting a good one”—on Instagram encapsulated the excitement surrounding offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr.’s selection by the New Orleans Saints as the 9th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
This endorsement from Manning, who benefited from Banks’ protection during their time at Texas, underscores the strong bond and mutual respect between the two athletes.
Arch Manning Champions Rookie Kelvin Banks Jr. After 9th Overall Pick on NFL Draft Night
Arch Manning used his Instagram account to express his backing of former teammate Kelvin Banks Jr. at the moment the New Orleans Saints selected the athlete. Manning’s message, “NOLA getting a good one,” reflects his confidence in Banks’ abilities and potential impact at the professional level.
Banks served as a cornerstone of the University of Texas offensive line, providing consistent protection throughout his collegiate career. The team achieved offensive success through his performance because Banks started every game in a row while winning both the Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award.
The public endorsement from Manning demonstrates both Banks’ performance excellence along with genuine teammate bonding and mutual respect. NFL players benefit greatly from such public endorsements because they enhance their confidence during their initial adaptation to professional football requirements.
Kelvin Banks Jr.: A Strategic Asset for the Saints’ Offensive Line
By selecting Kelvin Banks Jr. as their draft pick the New Orleans Saints resolve a central offensive line weakness in their roster. The unclear quarterback situation demands absolute defensive protection to be secure. His performance at Texas showed that Banks provided protection as a lineman by allowing only one sack and seven pressures in his last season on the team.
Analysts and fans have lauded the Saints’ selection, viewing Banks as a long-term solution at left tackle. His combination of athleticism, strength, and experience positions him as a potential cornerstone for the team’s offensive line, drawing comparisons to former Saints linemen like Terron Armstead.
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Furthermore, Banks’ high character and work ethic have been highlighted by commentators, suggesting that his integration into the Saints’ roster will be seamless. His presence is expected to provide immediate benefits, enhancing both pass protection and run blocking schemes.
Kelvin Banks Jr.’s move to the NFL becomes more promising due to Arch Manning’s support as he achieves outstanding results during college football. The New Orleans Saints now have reason to hire him as their next addition. The offensive line improvement strategy for the team received boosted expectations due to Banks joining the team ahead of the upcoming season.
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