2024 Lombardi Award Win for Texas Longhorn Kelvin Banks

Texas offensive tackle Kelly Banks Jr. took home the 51st Lombardi Award. The Houston Rotary Club announced the winner on Wednesday night. Banks Jr. received the Lombardi Award in 2024. He is the first Longhorn to win the honor since Brian Orakpo in 2008 and the fourth overall.

Among the candidates were Pennsylvania defensive end Abdul Carter, South Carolina edge rusher Kyle Kennard, and LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell. Rising star from Humble, Texas, and Summer Creek High School, Banks Jr. turned out successful.

1970 saw the death from colon cancer of famed football coach Vince Lombardi. The Rotary Club of Houston instituted the Lombardi Award in 1970 to pay tribute to his memory. The trophy goes to a player exhibiting exceptional talent, ability, and the kind of character Vince Lombardi promoted. The Lombardi family intended to use the money from the annual gala of the award toward cancer research and support of families impacted by the disease.

Released on November 7, the semifinalists for this year were praised rightfully by Banks Jr. Long history surrounds it; one of the most well-known recent winners is Will Anderson Jr., the Alabama edge rusher who earned it in 2022.

In addition to demonstrating his on-field performance, Banks Jr.'s success supports his reputation as a player who meets the Lombardi criteria of discipline and excellence.

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