Banks has emerged as a popular choice in mock drafts, with many experts, including Johnstone, believing that general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan will prioritize protecting their quarterback, Brock Purdy, who is set to become a very wealthy player this offseason.
"The offensive line run continues as the 49ers select the heir to Trent Williams but also an immediate contributor in Kelvin Banks Jr.," Johnstone wrote.
Although Williams intends to play in 2025, he will be 37 years old at the start of the season. Given his age and the toll that injuries are starting to take on the future Hall of Famer, it makes sense for the 49ers to plan for a successor. A significant ankle injury forced Williams to miss the last seven games of this past season.
Banks (6-4, 320) is the fourth offensive lineman selected in Johnstone's mock draft. He has Purdue tackle Marcus Mbow headed to the New England Patriots at 4th overall, LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell going to the New Orleans Saints at No. 9, and the Chicago Bears selecting Oregon tackle Josh Conerly Jr. with the 10th overall pick.
Playing exclusively at left tackle for the Longhorns last season, Banks earned an impressive 89.8 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking fifth among all collegiate offensive linemen. He allowed only one sack and 10 total pressures in 537 pass-blocking snaps. Additionally, Banks posted an 81.0 run-blocking grade and a career-high 86.0 overall offensive grade.
"There's a lot to address with the 49ers—among several core veterans being upcoming UFAs and a tricky QB situation, many circumstances could pull John Lynch in any direction. I think, especially in this class, doubling down on the trenches is going to pay off in the long run.
"Banks Jr. supplies an elite foundation as a backside run blocker but also possesses a high floor in protection. Despite some size concerns, he is a home-run selection with immediate rewards."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers WR Ricky Pearsall's future in doubt after 2027 NFL mock draft
Cameron Sheath of Pro Football and Sports Network released an early projection of the 2027 NFL Draft, and his mock draft could spell trouble for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall. In his projection, Sheath has the 49ers selecting Arizona State wide receiver... -
49ers urged to move on from former fourth-round draft pick
Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton believes it's time for the San Francisco 49ers to move on from wide receiver Jacob Cowing, a fourth-round pick in 2024, to make room for other players. Moton named one player from each team who should be cut before the 2026 season, and Cowing... -
49ers training camp: Shanahan ramps up for preseason, Purdy throws two pick-sixes
The San Francisco 49ers held their ninth full training camp practice on Saturday as they continued preparations for the 2026 NFL season. The biggest 49ers-related news coming out of Santa Clara was head coach Kyle Shanahan surprising everyone by speaking to reporters. It was... -
49ers inquired about Vita Vea while Buccaneers insist they aren't trading him
NFL Network's Mike Garafolo provided an update on Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea, revealing that the San Francisco 49ers are among the teams that have inquired about his availability. Vea requested a trade in July after contract talks with the Buccaneers...