Aaron Banks, the former El Cerrito High star, has grown by working alongside All-Pro tackle Trent Williams
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy is protected by Aaron Banks and Colton McKivitz while passing during the Seattle Seahawks game at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023. When the San Francisco 49ers need to get things moving on the ground – when they’re faced with those short-yardage, got-to-have-it situations – they’re almost always running to the left side.
Five snaps in a blowout win in Jacksonville was the extent of Banks’ involvement in the 49ers’ offense during his rookie year. A preseason shoulder injury kept him sidelined for the team’s first eight games of 2021, and when he returned, his action was limited to a handful of weekly special teams snaps. The coaching staff preferred veterans Laken Tomlinson and Daniel Brunskill to fill the two starting guard spots as the club made a push to the NFC Championship Game.
Alongside Williams, Banks quickly became a key piece of the 49ers’ top rushing attack – one that was elevated to a whole new level when Christian McCaffrey came to town that October. The pair used their size and quickness to open up large holes for the All-Pro running back, and give their young quarterback, Brock Purdy, reliable protection on his blindside.
A multi-year athlete in both football and basketball, Banks excelled at each sport and won multiple section titles for the Gauchos. On grass, he was violent and unrelenting. On hardwood, he had finesse. He wasn’t just a physical presence in the post or on the boards; Banks had the footwork and the shooting touch of a complete offensive weapon. Banks averaged more than 10 points and nearly six rebounds a game in his junior season.
It’s no surprise that practicing and playing alongside one of the best offensive tackles in all of football has stimulated Banks’ growth. Few players have been through as much as Williams over his 13-year NFL career. The wisdom he imparts to Banks and young linemates Spencer Burford and Colton McKivitz is particularly valuable. For Banks, it’s Williams’ selflessness that makes him such a respected teammate.
“If I had three hours, I probably wouldn’t be able to tell you enough,” Kahn said. “But Aaron has that heart of gold. He loves the people around him. He takes care of the people around him. He’s appreciative and will always show up for them.” San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk and San Francisco 49ers’ Aaron Banks celebrate Aiyuk’s touchdown in the third quarter of their NFC Championship Game against the Detroit Lions at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024. Animal rescue group abandons dozens of dogs at California kennelConcord cops raid hotel after learning guests had turned three rooms into a brothel
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