Missouri Edge Johnny Walker Jr. #BuildingTheBoard

Johnny Walker may not be the top-shelf EDGE rusher in this class, but he’s got all the ingredients to be a reliable contributor for an NFL team if given the opportunity to properly age. 

Walker has the speed to threaten the edge, using a smooth blend of burst and bend to keep offensive tackles on their heels. When tackles overset to account for his speed, he seamlessly converts speed to power, driving through their frames to get after the QB. His go-to move is a long-arm stab that he fires into the chest of offensive tackles with pinpoint accuracy, setting the tone for the rest of his rush. While he has flashed a ghost move and a cross chop to mix things up, he’s at his best when leaning into his speed/power combination. The question is will that be enough at the NFL level? His pass-rush arsenal could definitely use a splash of creativity to keep blockers guessing. Too often, if his intial rush doesn't win, he can be bottled up. He'll need to develop a reliable counter move in order to be anything more than a depth piece.

Walker’s motor is full proof, never watered down. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback and the football is evident on tape, with 18 sacks and six forced fumbles over the past two seasons showcasing his ability to create game-changing plays.

Against the run, Walker is surprisingly stout for a defensive end who doesn’t have prototypical size (listed at 6'3 255 lbs). He plays with excellent leverage, keeping his pad level low and his base strong to anchor at the point of attack. His length allows him to keep blockers at arm’s length, and his strong, active hands help him shed blocks and make plays in the backfield. Disciplined and assignment-sound, he rarely loses contain and consistently sets a firm edge, refusing to chase plays that aren't there.

There’s a lot to like about Walker’s tape—he’s a steady, dependable player who brings a lot of traits that teams covet. However, he’s more of a "jack of all trades, master of none" type, lacking a signature trait that guarantees success against NFL-caliber size and athleticism. That said, Walker’s high motor, special teams experience, and reliability against the run give him a steady floor for teams looking to add depth to their defensive line. While it might take some time for him to mature, his effort and versatility should carve him a role as a valuable contributor in a rotation.

He'll be one of my favorite day three targets in this draft class
#BuildingTheBoard