Free agent LB Anthony Walker visit with Commanders ends without deal

The Washington Commanders are searching for linebacker depth. Their search led to them meeting with free agent Anthony Walker on Tuesday. While the visit went well, it doesn’t appear Washington will sign Walker at the present time, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post.

Anthony Walker was a third-round pick in 2018 by the Indianapolis Colts. He played four seasons with the Colts before spending the last two with the Cleveland Browns. After piling up 113 tackles in 2021, a torn quad ended his season after five games in 2022. Through six seasons, Walker has had at least 92 tackles in four, including 100 in three.

However, the quad injury may have him in line for a prove-it deal. Washington is searching to replace Cole Holcomb Washington after Holcomb signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a free agent last week.

The Commanders signed former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Cody Barton to a one-year deal. Barton is looking to be in the Mike position. Barton is coming off his best season during his four-year career with 136 tackles and 11 starts.

Walker has a lengthier resume than Barton. But his injury may affect teams’ interest beyond a one-year deal. Walker may have to prove he is healthy and still capable of playing at a high level. Barton’s signing gives the Commanders insurance at linebacker. Washington doesn’t want to allocate big money to a linebacker.

No deal at the moment doesn’t mean signing Walker is ruled out. The Browns want to re-sign Walker. His visit with the Commanders should give him an idea of a team outside of the Browns views him.