The Buccaneers have started giving David Walker more opportunities, and the young edge defender has responded with production.
His season began without a defensive snap against Cincinnati. Since then, Walker has recorded sacks in consecutive games while seeing his workload increase.
That progression gives Tampa Bay another option along the edge heading into Sunday’s matchup with Green Bay. Walker now has an opportunity to continue earning trust within the defensive rotation.
Production Is Creating Opportunities
Walker first broke through against Cleveland when he recorded his first career sack against Deshaun Watson. Tampa Bay followed that performance by increasing his role against Minnesota.
Walker played 19 defensive snaps against the Vikings. He made another impact by bringing down Kyler Murray on third down.
The increased workload has been a direct result of Walker’s development. Outside Linebackers Coach/Run Game Coordinator Larry Foote believes the defender has earned his additional opportunities.
“He has definitely met our expectations and he did it in a hurry, just grasping the defense and understanding how to drop and where to fit, terminology and stuff like that,” stated Outside Linebackers Coach/Run Game Coordinator Larry Foote via the team’s website. “But, he has definitely earned more playing time.”
Walker Brings Multiple Ways to Attack
Walker’s production is not limited to one particular method of rushing the passer. His athleticism allows him to challenge offensive tackles with both speed and power.
He also has the physicality necessary to contribute against the run. His pursuit ability gives him a chance to make plays even when the initial action moves away from him.
Walker has three tackles for loss through three games. His continued growth could become important for a defense looking to maintain its effectiveness against the run.
Understanding the Defense Has Been Critical
The physical tools were already evident before Walker reached the regular season. His development has also required him to become comfortable with Tampa Bay’s defensive responsibilities.
Foote pointed to that mental development when discussing Walker’s progress. The defender has continued improving since an injury interrupted his previous training camp.
“It was knowing how to fit the run and everybody knows that he was hurt on the second day of training camp last year and he has just been growing every day and getting better and better,” said Foote. “We know how explosive he is but mentally, that is the thing that he is answering for us and he is doing it in a hurry.”
That understanding could be tested against Green Bay. Walker will need to balance his pass-rushing opportunities with his responsibilities against the Packers’ offense.
Jordan Love Creates Problems Outside the Pocket
Love presents a different challenge for Tampa Bay’s pass rush. The Packers quarterback can escape pressure and remain dangerous once the play breaks down.
His ability to throw while moving makes containing him especially important. Foote highlighted Love’s arm talent and ability to make accurate throws from unconventional positions.
“He can drop it in there,” said Foote about Love. “He is talented. If you watch him, he can throw on the run and he has that unique talent off that back foot. He can drop it in there and be accurate. Know that you guys remember Eli Manning, he is one of the best at it and he [Love] can drop and throw off his back foot, so it is going to be a challenge for us.”
Walker Has Another Chance
The Buccaneers have gradually increased Walker’s responsibilities, and his production has followed.
Now, Green Bay provides another opportunity for him to show why the coaching staff continues giving him more snaps. A strong performance could further establish Walker as a meaningful part of Tampa Bay’s defensive rotation.
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