The Green Bay Packers are leaving no stone unturned as they finalize their draft board, seeking players who can wear multiple hats. The front office recently hosted New Mexico running back Damon Bankston for a top-30 pre-draft visit. Known as a human Swiss Army knife, Bankston offers immense value as both an offensive weapon and a dynamic return specialist.
Green Bay Packers Interested In RB Damon Bankston
Bankston brings a wealth of experience and a highly productive resume to the professional level. He spent four years at Weber State, serving as a team captain and earning All-Big Sky honors before transferring to New Mexico for his final season.
He immediately made an impact for the Lobos. Bankston accumulated 1,466 all-purpose yards and 10 total touchdowns last year. He showcased his ability to operate as a dual-threat weapon, leading the team with 634 rushing yards while finishing third with 397 receiving yards.
Though he did not receive an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine, Bankston turned heads at his pro day. He clocked a 4.44-second 40-yard dash and pushed 21 reps on the bench press, proving he possesses the ideal blend of speed and functional strength for the next level.
Solving the Return Game Puzzle
The Packers desperately need stability on special teams. Last season, the team cycled through nine different players to return kicks and punts. While Green Bay signed veteran Skyy Moore in free agency to help address this issue, they actively want to foster deep competition during training camp.
Bankston perfectly fits this need. Last season, he returned 12 kickoffs for 434 yards and a pair of touchdowns, which included a spectacular 100-yard return in the Rate Bowl. His vision and burst in the open field make him an immediate candidate to secure the primary return specialist role.
Bolstering the Backfield
Beyond special teams, Bankston provides valuable depth for the offensive backfield. Following Emanuel Wilson’s departure in free agency, the Packers need a reliable rotational piece behind starting running back Josh Jacobs.
While Green Bay has options like Chris Brooks and MarShawn Lloyd, Bankston’s pass-catching ability out of the slot and backfield gives him a unique edge. Draft analysts currently project him as a late Day 3 selection or a priority undrafted free agent. If the Packers secure his signature, they will gain a highly versatile playmaker capable of contributing across multiple phases of the game.
