Former Georgia Bulldogs defensive end Travon Walker surprised quite a few folks when he was drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft. The Jacksonville Jaguars, who drafted Walker, really valued Walker’s physical traits and potential.
Now, after his third season in the NFL, Walker is fulfilling much of his immense potential. Many folks criticized the Jaguars for selecting Walker, but he’s been productive and durable.
“Walker has quietly ascended in his third season in the NFL,” said Thomas Valentine of PFF. “He registered comparable pass-rushing numbers to a year ago, 56 pressures and 10 sacks, but his run defense really improved.”
Walker posted 10 sacks despite playing for a Jaguars team that did not hold many leads this season. PFF gave Walker a career-best 69.2 run defense grade in 2024. Walker’s strides as a run defender are evident and he should continue to improve as he refine his technique.
Walker is frequently compared to the Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who was the No. 2 pick in the 2022 NFL draft out of Michigan. Hutchinson had gotten off to a faster start in his career and plays for a team that has leads much more frequently, but Walker may be closing the gap. Hutchinson suffered an unfortunate setback in 2024 with a broken leg.
PFF is optimistic on Walker’s future outlook. “If his improvement across the board continues, Walker could be one of the best every-down edge defenders in the league,” said Valentine.
The Jaguars will use Walker as a key building block for their future. Jacksonville knows the former Georgia star still has some untapped potential.
