Brian Banks (American football) facts for kids
Banks in 2018
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| No. 53, 55 | |
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| Position: | Linebacker |
| Personal information | |
| Born: | July 24, 1985 Long Beach, California, U.S. |
| Height: | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight: | 249 lb (113 kg) |
| Career information | |
| High school: | Long Beach Polytechnic |
| College: | Long Beach City College |
| Undrafted: | 2007 |
| Career history | |
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Brian Keith Banks (born July 24, 1985) is a former American football player. He played as a Linebacker and is known for his inspiring journey back to the sport. Brian was a talented high school football player who dreamed of playing professionally.
After a difficult period where his future in football seemed uncertain, his name was cleared in 2012. This allowed him to chase his dream again. He played for the United Football League (UFL) and later signed with the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League (NFL).
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Early life and High School Football
Brian Banks grew up in Long Beach, California. He went to Long Beach Polytechnic High School, which is famous for its strong football program. Brian was a star player there.
He played alongside other future NFL players like DeSean Jackson and Marcedes Lewis. Many people thought Brian would go on to play college football at a top university. In 2002, he even planned to join the USC team.
Brian's Return to Football
After his name was cleared in 2012, Brian was determined to play football again. He had not played in a real game for over 11 years since high school. He worked hard to get back into shape and show teams what he could do.
He tried out for several NFL teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers. He also attended a special training camp with the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks' coach, Pete Carroll, had actually offered Brian a scholarship to USC back in 2002.
Playing for the Las Vegas Locomotives
On September 20, 2012, Brian signed with the Las Vegas Locomotives. This team was part of the UFL. It was a big moment for Brian, as it was his first time playing in a real game since high school.
He played in two games for the Locomotives. He made one tackle before the UFL stopped its season in October. Even though it was a short time, it showed Brian could still play at a high level.
Joining the Atlanta Falcons
Brian's hard work paid off when he signed with the Atlanta Falcons on April 3, 2013. This was a huge step, as the Falcons are an NFL team. He joined their offseason workouts and training camp.
Brian played in four preseason games for the Falcons. He even made two tackles in his first NFL preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Although he was released by the team on August 30, 2013, playing for an NFL team was a major achievement.
After Football
In 2014, Brian was asked to speak at the NFL draft Rookie Symposium. This is an event where new NFL players learn about life in the league. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell invited him to share his inspiring story.
Brian's speech was very well received. A few weeks later, he was hired to work for the NFL Department of Operations. This shows how much respect he earned for his strength and determination.
Brian's Story on Film
Brian's amazing life story was made into a movie! The film is called Brian Banks. It came out in August 2019.
The movie was directed by Tom Shadyac. It stars Aldis Hodge as Brian Banks. The film helps share Brian's powerful message of hope and perseverance with a wider audience.
