Caleb Banks reveals real age to protect his first round NFL draft spot

Caleb Banks has become one of the biggest names in college football after his strong 2024 season with the Florida Gators. On Sunday, August 17, 2025, the young defensive lineman shared on X (previously Twitter) that his actual birth date is March 12, 2003.

This mattered as most internet profiles, including Google and ON3, give his birthday as December 20, 2001. The wrong age could badly affect his value in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Caleb Banks corrects online age rumors before NFL draft

Caleb Banks made his point very clear by writing, “I was born on March 12, 2003… can someone fix this please?? lol,” on his official account. The funny tone hides a serious problem. NFL teams often check every detail, including a player’s age. If front offices believe Caleb Banks is 23 instead of 21, they may think he is already close to his physical peak.

Many draft experts, such as ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., currently project Caleb Banks as a mid to late first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. But if teams see him as an older prospect, they could look for younger players with more years to grow. That can make him slide down the draft board, which means he would lose a lot of money on his rookie deal.

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Billy Napier battles injury issues at Florida during camp

Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier has also been having a tough time during fall camp in Gainesville, Florida.

Multiple key players have dealt with injuries. On August 14, 2025, ESPN reporter Chris Low asked whether quarterback DJ Lagway could stay healthy after shoulder and calf issues. Caleb Banks also missed time with a lower-body injury. However, David Waters of Gators Breakdown said on August 17, 2025, that there were “no new injuries” after the last team scrimmage. That brings some relief, but the age issue still hangs over Caleb Banks as the NFL Draft gets closer.