Although there are concerns with his tape, Banks checks boxes with his tackle measurables and raw power to generate movement in the run game. The Texas product is a high-end run blocker who can create rushing lanes on double teams, turn and displace defenders in one-on-one engagements, and work up to the second level to lead block downfield. He also maintains inside-out leverage in his pass sets, forcing rushers to take longer paths to the quarterback around his edge.

With a new regime taking over, it’s tough to say what an ideal Vrabel offensive tackle is. Based on McDaniels’s past, Banks projects nicely as a people-moving OT. He has a higher ceiling in the pros, but think someone like Marcus Cannon forming a stout right side with RG Mike Onwenu.

Tier Four: Honorable Mentions, Injured Tackles and a Running Back

EDGE Mykel Williams, Georgia

Pro Comparison – Greg Rousseau

If the Patriots were in a different spot, Williams is a ball of clay they could give to Vrabel and DC Terrell Williams to develop into an impact defender. Williams has excellent first-step quickness, length, and change of direction talent. However, he’s a bit raw right now with his pass-rush plan and counters. Williams will be a good pro with some coaching.

OT Armand Membou, Missouri

Pro Comparison – Zach Tom

Membou is climbing up media boards as the process continues due to his excellent feet, raw power, and range in the run game and pass pro. However, he’s a shorter prospect (6-3) with shorter arms (33 ⅛”) who solely played right tackle at Mizzou—a good football player who probably doesn’t make much sense for the Patriots.

OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State

Pro Comparison – Christian Darrisaw

Simmons is this class’s best pure left tackle based on his athletic traits and film to start the college season. He’s an explosive, controlled mover with ideal measurables to play the position who was dominant against lesser competition. However, a season-ending injury knocked Simmons out for the year before the Buckeyes played the meat of their schedule, so nobody knows if his dominance would’ve continued vs. stiffer competition. Plus, his torn patellar tendon injury suffered last November kept Cole Strange off the field for a calendar year. Simmons might not even be available as a rookie. If he was healthy, we’d be having a different conversation. For now, he’s a candidate for the Patriots in the second round due to his injury.

RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

Pro Comparison – Maurice Jones-Drew

We can’t make this list without mentioning Jeanty, who has elite explosiveness and contact balance. However, if the Pats draft a running back with their first pick, you’ll find me on the side of the Tobin Bridge.