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Walker makes it official: Defensive star for the Kentucky football declares for the NFL

ByDrew Holbrook|
Nov 23, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Kentucky Wildcats defensive tackle Deone Walker (0) celebrates after a fumble recovery against Texas Longhorns in the third quarter at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ricardo B. Brazziell/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
Nov 23, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Kentucky Wildcats defensive tackle Deone Walker (0) celebrates after a fumble recovery against Texas Longhorns in the third quarter at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ricardo B. Brazziell/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images | Ricardo B. Brazziell/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

As expected, Kentucky football’s most dominant defensive player, Deone Walker, has officially declared for the NFL Draft. Walker, a junior defensive lineman, was a cornerstone of the Wildcats' defense and widely considered one of the most talented players to come through the program in recent years. His departure leaves a massive void on the defensive line, with no returning edge rushers from the two-deep depth chart with recent transfer portal losses, you can read on them here. .

Walker’s production was a critical component of Kentucky’s defense all 3 years, despite a step back this year:

  • 2024: 37 tackles (13 solo, 24 assisted), 1.5 sacks, 1 fumble recovery
  • 2023: 55 tackles (28 solo, 27 assisted), 7.5 sacks
  • 2022: 40 tackles (12 solo, 28 assisted), 1 sack, 1 forced fumble

The 6-foot-6, 350-pound lineman was a disruptive force who routinely drew double teams, freeing up his teammates to make plays. His impact on the field extended beyond stats, as his size, strength, and versatility often dictated opposing offenses’ game plans.

Walker’s departure comes as no surprise, as he was widely projected to be a high-round NFL Draft pick. However, his decision leaves Kentucky with significant challenges on the defensive line. The Wildcats lose their entire two-deep rotation at the edge-rushing position, leaving Kahlil Saunders and Kendrick Gilbert as the only experienced returnees from the defensive line.

Replacing Walker will be no easy task. His ability to anchor the line and generate pressure was a game-changer for the Wildcats. Without him, Kentucky will need to rely on player development and potentially the transfer portal to rebuild their front seven.

One big question is could Walker have been a victim of poor coaching and culture, as he never quiet reached the potential his talent has shown.

For Kentucky fans, while Walker’s departure was anticipated, it underscores the urgency for the Wildcats to get it right this year in the transfer portal.

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