Chiefs Make Offer to NFL Combine Standout After Chris Jones Comment

Caleb Banks brings a historic wingspan and elite interior presence to Kansas City.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Kansas City Chiefs have scheduled a Top-30 visit with Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks, who stood out at the NFL Scouting Combine last week. Banks has been facing scrutiny over a viral exchange regarding veteran Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones, and the Chiefs are counting on him to revive their struggling pass rush.

Why it matters

The Chiefs finished 25th in the league in sacks last season, and they are looking for a high-ceiling successor to All-Pro Chris Jones. Banks' impressive combine performance, including a historic 85.75-inch wingspan and elite athletic metrics, have made him a top riser in the draft and a potential target for the Chiefs at either the 9th or 29th overall pick.

The details

Banks recorded physical metrics at the combine that placed him in the 99th percentile, including a 5.04-second 40-yard dash, 32-inch vertical jump, and 9-foot-6-inch broad jump. He also has a 10 7/8-inch hand measurement, which is a critical evaluation point for Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's scheme. Banks has faced scrutiny over comments he made about wanting to 'pass up' Chris Jones, but Jones responded on social media by telling him to 'keep at it'.

  • On Wednesday, the Chiefs scheduled a Top-30 visit with Banks.
  • Banks conducted a formal evaluation with the Arizona Cardinals earlier this week.
  • Banks is expected to complete the 3-cone and 20-yard shuttle during Florida's Pro Day on March 26.

The players

Caleb Banks

A Florida defensive tackle who stood out at the NFL Scouting Combine with his historic wingspan and elite athletic metrics.

Chris Jones

An All-Pro defensive lineman for the Kansas City Chiefs who responded on social media to Banks' comments about wanting to 'pass him up'.

Brett Veach

The General Manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has scheduled a Top-30 visit with Caleb Banks.

Steve Spagnuolo

The defensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, who prioritizes length and heavy hands in his scheme, making Banks' measurements a critical evaluation point.

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What they’re saying

“Once I reach my ceiling... I definitely feel like I'll pass him up.”

— Caleb Banks (CBS Sports)

“Keep at it!”

— Chris Jones (Twitter)

“He told me his cleats were irritating him.”

— Stacey Dales, NFL Network reporter (NFL Network)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.