New Orleans Saints left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. is officially sidelined indefinitely after suffering a severe high ankle sprain that will require surgery. This is a massive hit for the Saints, taking a key piece off their offensive line for the foreseeable future.
A Massive Blow to the Saints’ Young Core
Banks went down awkwardly after taking a Mike Green sack during the Saints’ Week 2 win over the Ravens. He was carted off the field and immediately ruled out. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Banks might have a chance to return late in the season, but that’s a big “if all goes well” scenario. This isn’t just any injury, folks. Banks was a standout, drafted No. 9 overall in 2025 out of Texas, and he started all 17 games last season. He was really finding his stride, too, ranking as Pro Football Focus’ 12th-rated offensive tackle across the final five weeks of last year. His absence leaves a huge hole for New Orleans.
Who Steps Up on a Thin O-Line?
With Banks out, the Saints immediately had to turn to Asim Richards, a fourth-year pro who has only five career starts to his name, to protect quarterback Tyler Shough’s blind side. To help Richards, the team leaned on extra running backs or tight ends to chip in with pass protection. The Saints have a talented young offensive core with Shough, wide receiver Chris Olave, and right tackle Taliese Fuaga, but the line just got a lot thinner. Their other 2025 top pick, Jordyn Tyson, who was No. 8 overall, hasn’t even made his NFL debut yet due to a hamstring injury. Beyond Fuaga, Richards, and Banks, their only other tackle on the roster is Mason Murphy, a 2026 undrafted free agent. Richards played well as they rallied to win, but this unit is now seriously thin and inexperienced.
The Saints are sitting at 1-1, but losing Banks for what could be the majority of the season is a gut punch. They’ll need their young guys to grow up fast and stay healthy if they want to navigate these treacherous waters.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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