Kansas City, Tu – April 22, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs have solidified their offensive line, securing Texas standout Kelvin Banks Jr. at No. 24 in the 2025 NFL Draft after a daring trade-up, sources told ESPN. Chiefs Kingdom erupts as Banks Jr. promises to shield Patrick Mahomes for a championship run.
Banks Jr., a 6-foot-4, 324-pound powerhouse, earned the 2024 Outland Trophy with 42 college starts at Texas. His elite pass-blocking (zero sacks allowed in 2024, per Pro Football Focus) and brute strength make him a perfect fit to address Kansas City’s 41-sack debacle from last season.
GM Brett Veach orchestrated the trade with the Minnesota Vikings, sending No. 31, a 2026 third-rounder, and cornerback Jaylen Watson to secure the pick. Outbidding Houston’s No. 25 slot, Veach echoed his 2017 Mahomes trade: “Banks Jr. is our left tackle of the future.”
The Chiefs’ line, exposed in Super Bowl LIX’s 40-22 loss to the Eagles, desperately needed a savior. Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris struggled, while Jaylon Moore’s $30 million signing lacked long-term certainty. Banks Jr. steps in as a Day 1 starter, joining Trey Smith and Joe Thuney.
Minnesota gains Watson and Suamataia as depth pieces for their line, with Suamataia’s youth (22) offering upside beside Christian Darrisaw. The Vikings’ added draft capital lets them target a receiver, while Veach keeps a fifth-rounder for prospects like Brashard Smith.
Banks Jr.’s 84-inch wingspan and explosive kick step, praised by Mel Kiper Jr., will stonewall AFC rushers like Maxx Crosby. X buzzed with excitement, one fan calling him “Mahomes’ new guardian angel.” His Big 12 dominance signals readiness for the NFL’s toughest trenches.
The move reshapes Kansas City’s offense. With Travis Kelce aging and Rashee Rice rising, Banks Jr. gives Mahomes time to connect with Xavier Worthy. Later picks can now target needs like running back Darius Alexander, balancing the roster.
Chiefs Kingdom, your fortress is built. Kelvin Banks Jr.’s arrival marks Veach’s relentless pursuit of another Lombardi Trophy. As training camp looms, Kansas City eyes a 2025 resurgence with Banks Jr. leading the charge.
