NFL Draft: Florida’s Banks Expected to be Picked in First Round
Florida football is once again expected to have multiple players in the conversation across the seven rounds of the NFL Draft that begins Thursday night.
The Gators’ draft outlook is highlighted by a mix of established contributors and rising prospects who have built their careers through consistent production and development.
Defensive lineman Caleb Banks recorded two solo tackles and no sacks in 2025 due to a foot injury. He is recognized for his size and power having previously recorded 4.5 sacks in the 2024 season. During Florida Pro Day, Banks solidified his draft stock by running a 5.04 second 40-yard dash and recording a 9-foot-6 broad jump while still battling his injury.
Even after playing just three games last season, Banks is one of the most fascinating players in this year’s draft class. Banks was on track to be a late first-round pick, but post-combine foot surgery will likely drop him to a round-two pick, as ESPN expects him to be taken by the Baltimore Ravens at pick 45.
Six-foot-3 cornerback Devin Moore recorded 35 total 23 solo tackles, two tackles for loss, one sack and two interceptions this season and recorded a 4.5-second 40-yard dash at the Pro Day. He served as a key senior leader under Billy Napier’s staff and reports from ESPN see him as falling in the late third round for a pickup by the Miami Dolphins.
The Dolphins are already loaded with seven selections in the top 100, but landing Moore late round 3 would offer an immediate boost to the secondary.
While the Gators may not feature a consensus top pick this year, this program is still expected to have a steady presence in the draft.
All-American center Jake Slaughter is another Gator expected to go in the first two days. At 6-foot-5 and 303 pounds recording 33 starts and over 2,000 snaps at center, 2024 First Team and 2025 Second Team All-American, Slaughter is seen as a prominent and consistent figure out of Florida this year.
His scouting combine was successful, as he recorded a 5.1-second 40-yard dash, a 32.5-inch vertical leap and a 9-2 broad jump. He allowed one sack and quarterback hit during the 2025 season, maintaining a steady power on the offensive line.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. believes Slaughter is just a really good, consistent football player, expecting him to go in round four.
Overall, Florida’s draft class reflects a program continuing to develop NFL-caliber talent, with multiple players expected to take the next step at the professional level.
Where to Watch
The draft will be televised by NFL Network, ABC, ESPN and ESPN Deportes:
- Thursday: 8 p.m. ET – NFL Network, ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes (Spanish)
- Friday: 7 p.m. – NFL Network, ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes (Spanish)
- Saturday: Noon – NFL Network, ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes (Spanish)
Category: College Football, Football, Gator Sports, Gators Football, NFL Draft, SEC
