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Jason Banks of Carson-Newman works out in front of the NFL scouts Tuesday in Jefferson City.

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JEFFERSON CITY - James Banks took another step toward the National Football League as he performed for pro scouts Tuesday afternoon along with Carson-Newman College seniors at Burke-Tarr Stadium.

It was the second audition the wide receiver has put on for the NFL, the first being a one-hour workout with former Indianapolis Colts and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Jeff George in Indianapolis on Feb. 24.

"I came out here and went hard so everything can happen like it's supposed to happen," Banks said. "I worked hard and did everything that I can do. I have to let the Lord take care of it. Hopefully, one of these teams can give me a shot."

Banks appeared to be in phenomenal shape, shaving .09 seconds off his previous 40-yard dash time in Indianapolis and posting a 4.59, identical to top draft prospect Mario Manningham from Michigan. At 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, Banks is a more physical presence than players like Manningham and some of the smaller, quicker wide receivers in the draft. Banks, who started his college career at the University of Tennessee, believes with some work on his technique he can improve his time in the 40 even more.

"It's a little disappointing for me from a personal standpoint," Banks said. "I was clocked at 4.68 at Indianapolis, so this is a little bit better. I think it's something about the way that I run it, but I'll work on it."

It's taken quite a bit of work for the 24-year-old Banks to end up in this position. After derailing his career with the Vols in 2003 with off the field problems, Banks finally suited up for the Eagles in 2007. Banks caught 22 passes for 370 yards and six touchdowns.

"It was great to be part of a team again," Banks said. "That was my main concern. Whatever was going to happen on the field was going to happen, but I wanted to be part of something."

Banks looked sharp in passing drills, benefiting from the live arm of Maryland transfer and new Eagles quarterback Joel Statham. Banks has heard some projections of where he might go in the draft, but doesn't let it affect his preparation.

"I'm in shape and ready to help a team," Banks said. "We'll see what happens. You hear different things, but I can't say what it's going to be like."

The chance to rejoin some of his former teammates from UT has been a motivating factor as next month's draft nears.

"I keep up with all of them," Banks said. "I still talk to Marvin Mitchell of the (New Orleans) Saints a lot. He was my roommate and we're still good friends. I just want to get back with my class."

Banks has no other workouts scheduled, but is ready to perform at a moment's notice for anyone who wants to test him.

"If someone wants me to come and work out, I'll do it," Banks said. "I'm ready to do whatever it takes. I'm trying to make a living just like everybody else. I have the opportunity to continue playing the game and I'm grateful for anything that happens."

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.