The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ linebacker corps is poised for significant upheaval this offseason. With the uncertain future of veteran Lavonte David and the underwhelming performance of K.J. Britt and others, a revamp of the position appears inevitable.
With a pressing need at linebacker, the Buccaneers are likely to target the position early in the 2025 NFL Draft. According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, Georgia standout Jalon Walker could be a prime candidate to fill that void.
“Jalon Walker is a first-round talent, but it isn’t always easy to find the team that should use a first-round pick on an off-ball linebacker.”
“In the case of Walker, that team is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He is a unique prospect who played both on the edge and as an off-ball linebacker. Ultimately, he’s built more like an inside ‘backer who happens to be an excellent blitzer. That’s right up Todd Bowles’ alley. The Bucs head coach runs one of the most dynamic defenses in the league and will have no problem weaponizing Walker’s skill set. The Bucs are also at a natural turning point for the position with Lavonte David and K.J. Britt both slated to become free agents.”
Projected as a first-round pick, Jalon Walker is expected to hear his name called on April 24, when the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Here’s our Draft Profile for Jalon Walker!
Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
HT: 6’2
WT: 244 lbs
Accolades:
Butkus Award (2024)
First-team All-American (2024)
Second-team All-SEC (2024)
Video:
Pros:
Developed impressive pattern-matching skills in zone coverage, showing natural feel for route combinations and spacing
Quick first step off the edge translates to devastating pass rush ability, demonstrated by his three-sack performance against Texas in 2024
Shows rare bend and ankle flexion for a linebacker his size, consistently able to flatten around tackles while maintaining speed to the quarterback
Natural block destructor who uses powerful hands and leverage to keep himself clean, particularly effective when working through traffic
Brings scheme versatility with experience both as an edge rusher and off-ball linebacker in Georgia’s multiple defensive looks
Exceptional closing speed in space, verified by his blazing 4.50 forty time that puts him in the 94th percentile at the position
High-motor player who consistently affects the quarterback, evidenced by his team-leading pressure numbers against Kentucky
Takes on blocks with excellent pad level and leverage, consistently maintaining position to make plays in the run game
Cons:
Still developing his instincts as an off-ball linebacker, occasionally showing hesitation when diagnosing run plays and flowing to the ball
Can get caught playing too square against offensive linemen, limiting his ability to disengage quickly in the run game
Limited starting experience with only 11 starts at the collegiate level may require patience during his NFL transition
Shows some rawness in man coverage techniques, particularly when matching up against more nuanced route runners
Will occasionally overpursue in space, leading to missed opportunities in the backfield when playing as an edge defender
Summary:
Jalon Walker‘s impact as a defensive force became apparent in 2023, as he notched five sacks in a primarily reserve role. However, it was during the 2024 season that he catapulted to national prominence, securing the esteemed Butkus Award and spearheading a formidable Georgia defense.
One of Walker’s standout performances came against Texas, where he amassed three sacks and persistently disrupted the backfield, ultimately earning him SEC Defensive Player of the Week accolades. His versatility and prowess on the field were on full display.
Walker’s collegiate career concluded with a standout senior season, earning him First-Team All-America recognition from multiple publications. The 6’2″, 244-pound linebacker demonstrated remarkable growth, evolving from a specialized pass rusher to a versatile, every-down defender. This transformation showcases his commitment to refining his skills and maintaining the explosive qualities that made him a highly sought-after recruit.
Walker’s game footage reveals an impressive combination of explosiveness, twitch, and power, drawing comparisons to Anthony Barr’s exiting UCLA. His ability to dominate off the edge and excel as an off-ball linebacker makes him a formidable defensive asset. His three-sack performance against Texas, which dismantled their protection scheme, provides a glimpse into his potential at the next level.
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