Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Mike Banks (Iowa St.) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #223 by ARI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Mike Banks (Iowa State) - 2002 NFL Draft

Position: Linebacker

Height: 6'2"

Weight: 230 lbs

Overview

Mike Banks was a standout linebacker for the Iowa State Cyclones, showcasing his skills and leadership on the field throughout his collegiate career. His combination of size, speed, and instincts made him a highly regarded prospect heading into the 2002 NFL Draft.

Strengths

• Physicality: Banks played with a tough, aggressive style that allowed him to excel in run support and tackle effectively.
• Coverage Skills: He demonstrated the ability to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game, making him a versatile linebacker.
• Football IQ: A smart player with a good understanding of defensive schemes, Banks was known for his ability to read offenses and react quickly.
• Leadership: As a captain for the Cyclones, he was a vocal leader on the field, showing the ability to motivate teammates and direct the defense.

Weaknesses

• Injury History: Banks had some injury concerns during his college career, which could raise red flags for NFL teams.
• Consistency: While he had standout performances, there were games where his play dipped, leading to questions about his consistency at the professional level.

Draft Projection

Mike Banks was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2002 NFL Draft. Teams looking for depth at linebacker and a player with potential to develop into a starter were particularly interested in his skill set.

Conclusion

Mike Banks was seen as a promising linebacker with the potential to make an impact in the NFL. His physical style of play and leadership qualities made him an attractive option for teams seeking to bolster their defensive units.