Player Bio
The Georgia product’s full name is Jaquavian Jy'Quese Walker. He was rated the No. 2 linebacker prospect and top-35 overall recruit nationally out of Crisp County High School. He played in all 14 games as a reserve in 2018 (six tackles), sharing the team's Special Teams Newcomer of the Year Award. Walker got more playing time as a sophomore (23 tackles, 3.5 for loss with 2.5 sacks in 13 appearances) before getting a chance to start twice in 10 contests in 2020 (43 tackles, two for loss with one sack). He started all 15 games for the 2021 national champions, recording 67 tackles, 5.5 for loss with 1.5 sacks, and three pass breakups. -- by Chad Reuter
Overview
Walker had to wait his turn at Georgia, but he has become a well-schooled, instinctive linebacker ready for the NFL game. He has good size and clear eyes from the second level, with a talent for recognizing play design. He plays disciplined, team-oriented football but is unlikely to become a top-level playmaker as a pro. His chase speed and body control are just average when ranging to tackle or covering in space. Walker is dependable and consistent and projects as a good backup with eventual starter potential at inside linebacker.Strengths
- Instinctive, with confident eyes in the box.
- Plays with lively, ready feet.
- Quick recognition into response.
- Mirrors runner's lane choice from his perch.
- Recognizes blocking scheme and play design.
- Sees past climbing blockers.
- Snappy hands to play off blocks quickly.
- Keeps outside shoulder uncovered.
- Consistent hustle away from the ball.
- Reliable, face-up tackler near the line.
Weaknesses
- Has some tightness in his hips.
- Upright in second-level movements.
- Average body control in scrape to the football.
- Play strength doesn't always match his size.
- Inconsistent finding the best level to elude block.
- Gets stuck to blocks that find him.
- Erratic vision and response in coverage.
- Will overrun his target in space.
