2023 mock NFL Draft 3.0: Final 11th-hour edition (with trades)

On the clock: Pick No. 31: Kansas City Chiefs – Deonte Banks, Cornerback, Maryland

Mock Draft 1.0 – Darnell Wright, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee
Mock Draft 2.0 – Calijah Kancey, Defensive Tackle, Pittsburgh

The Kansas City Chiefs have been a bit dicey when it comes to pass coverage, and eventually one of the powerful AFC offenses will take them down in the playoffs. They could use another corner, and Deonte Banks has put himself into first-round consideration.

A physical press corner and a good size at 6-foot-0 and 197 pounds, Banks showcased his athletic potential when he ran a 4.36 second 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine and then blitzing the other athletic drills.

Banks had only one interception for Maryland but had eight passes for Maryland in 2022. His smooth athleticism allows him to keep up with receivers and then make plays on the ball. His willingness to play physically can get him in trouble at times, but with good technique, that aggression will serve him well in the NFL.

The technique, however, is the big question. He has been undisciplined in his college career and as a result, hasn’t had the career he should have had with the Terrapins. He needs to be more efficient with his jam technique, as savvy receivers can slip past his overaggressive hands and make Banks resort to grabbing to prevent being beaten deep.