Can DT Josh Banks convince Giants to keep him around?

The New York Giants have spent the offseason revamping their defensive line, hoping to build depth and versatility along the front in James Bettcher’s defense. Could Josh Banks be a player who forces his way into that equation? Let’s take a look as we continue our player-by-player profiles of the 90-man roster the Giants will bring to training camp.

2017 season in review

Undersized for a 4-3 defensive tackle at 6-foot-3, 280 pounds, Banks was signed by the Giants as an undrafted free agent out of Wake Forest. He made two tackles in the preseason before being placed on the team’s injured reserve list.

2018 outlook

Banks will likely be competing for a spot as a 5-tech defensive end.

Here is a pre-2017 draft scouting report from Tony Pauline of Draft Analyst:

Pos:

Hard-working defensive tackle prospect who projects as a three-technique player on Sundays. Relatively athletic, plays with proper pad level and moves well to every direction of the field. Slides laterally pursuing the action down the line of scrimmage and outside the box, effectively works his hands and shows explosiveness. Keeps his feet moving and relentlessly chases the play.

Neg:

Average first-step quickness. Lacks bulk and easily sealed from the action.

Analysis:

Banks possesses the leverage and movement skills to line up as a three-technique tackle but must improve his strength at the point.

Banks seems like a long shot to make the roster. More likely, he could be a practice squad candidate.