Packers LB Quay Walker to start immediately?

The Packers double-dipped not only on the defensive side of the ball in the first round of the 2022 draft, but on the program from which they selected both Devonte Wyatt and Quay Walker. Each of the Georgia products figure to play significant roles on the team’s defense for years to come, but the latter could see a significant role right away during his rookie season.

Matt Schneidman of The Athletic notes that a lack of depth at inside linebacker could make Walker the “x-factor” of the position group (subscription required). The 6-foot-4, 240-pounder took on a larger role in each of his four seasons with the Bulldogs, totaling 65 stops, 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in 2021. Those numbers fall short of the production put up by teammate and fellow inside ‘backer Nakobe Dean, but injury concerns about the latter and perceived athletic upside for Walker helped make him the top selection at the position in April.

Green Bay already had De’Vondre Campbell at the position heading into this season; the 29-year-old enjoyed a career year during his first season with the Packers, earning First-Team All-Pro honors. The team responded this offseason by signing him to a five-year, $50M deal. As noted by Schneidman, he was joined in spring practices by Walker with the starting members of the defense.

That is in line with previous reporting on Walker’s expected role as a rookie. His skill set both against the run and pass should allow him to remain on the field in a variety of situations, especially with an experienced partner in the middle of the unit in Campbell. Assuming Walker plays a large role right away, that would also represent a notable difference in the immediate expectations for Wyatt; the team’s superior defensive line depth has the latter slated for rotational duties in 2022.

If Walker can succeed early on as a first-teamer, the Packers’ defense could take the step forward many are expecting they could, given the moves made to bolster the unit.