Packer Quay Walker

Packer Linebacker Quay Walker: 8th IDP Off the Board / Selected 22nd Overall

” Great first step. Good power to stop ball carriers in their tracks “

–  Gridiron Ratings 2022 Rookie NFL Draft Guide

 The landing spot for Walker isn’t a great one for immediate IDP production. For one, the Packers re-signed Pro Bowl Linebacker DeVondre Campbell to a 5 year deal this off-season. The team also has 3rd year veteran Krys Barnes on the roster. That’s two capable veterans ahead of the rookie on the depth chart. He could also have issues picking up the defense, considering his limited playing time in college. Walker didn’t become a starter until his senior season at Georgia. The biggest issue for Walker is the Packers heavy use of dime packages on passing downs. The dime formation only allows for one Linebacker to be on the field. It’s worth noting that Campbell was the dime Linebacker and led the Packer’s Linebackers in snap rate at 97%. The next closest Linebacker in snap rate was Barnes with 52%.

Walker is best viewed as a Dynasty asset. The odds aren’t in Walker’s favor of producing as a rookie. I’m expecting him to mostly contribute on special teams until he adjusts to the NFL and gains more experience. He could be serviceable if he replaces Krys Barnes in base formations at some point during the season. However, the Packer’s heavy usage of dime formations will likely cap his upside. It’s important to note that the Packers advised that selecting Walker gives the team more flexibility to stay in the base defense and play more nickel coverages. If the Packers employ more nickel formations, then Walker becomes more appealing as a potential deep league bench stash in redraft leagues. His upside is questionable however. Walker didn’t log a single interception in 4 seasons at Georgia.

Dynasty and Redraft Evaluations:

Walker has the potential to be a top 10 LB. He’s more appealing in tackle heavy formats due to his limited big-play upside.

Waivers in shallow leagues and only a deep league bench stash in redraft. He likely won’t have a meaningful role as a rookie.