Photo by Darren Reese
Jason Banks of Carson-Newman works out in front of the NFL scouts Tuesday in Jefferson City.
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."
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Comments » 13
VOLinDAWGland writes:
I sincerely hope this turns into a success story for James.
elmovol#229864 writes:
It's only fitting after his great career at Tennessee that he becomes a high draft pick....wait a minute, didn't Fulmer kick him off the team? But Fulmer only disciplines second team players, right? I'm confused! Help me John Adams, help me understand!
Bigger_Al writes:
Adams won't deal with facts that distort his version of reality.
GreerVol22 writes:
Big Al, once again you speak truth.
orangebloodgmc writes:
Good article, Adam Greene.
BrewerTL writes:
No doubt, Bigger_Al! I find ALMOST comical that that P-O-S Adams goes out on his "Colquitt tirade" saying "nothing" happened to him. I would consider getting my scholarship yanked a pretty big deal if it were me. Adams ALWAYS leaves that out of his little rants....ALWAYS!!
Adams ought to consider a career in politics....he sure is good at conveniently forgetting things.
DadwasaVol writes:
Hey Banks - thanks for catching that deflected pass in the end zone that helped punk the Gators!
adamsck#591720 writes:
You've got it all wrong elmovol. In this case it was the lack of midnight windsprints that Fulmer is responsible for. Don't miss the point. When Fulmer kicked James Banks off the team it was a discipline failure that could have been corrected through running, etc. When we suspend Colquitt for five games and take their scholarships its a discipline problem that requires kicking him off the team. If we don't like the result at Govolsxtra its no problem. We just move the target. Voila!
adamsck#591720 writes:
I forgot to add one thing. When golvolsxtra doesn't like the criticism here they just remove the posts! Voila, no more problem. Its a fun game we play here at golvolsxtra. Play both ends against the middle and sell more ads!
Volunatic writes:
Good luck James! A lot of Vol fans are still rooting for you!
vols1086 writes:
Pretty sure that is James Banks in the picture, not Jason.
Timed_vol (Inactive) writes:
Banks had a knack for making the great play. Yeah, I hope he catches on. My guess is he will be lucky to get a free agent deal, but you never know.
He may have to go Arena or Canadian for a bit.
leedsvol2007 writes:
The only question about Banks is can he stay clear of the NFL drug policy. If he can he will become a fine if not great NFL player. He has all the tools.
I'm pulling for him.
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