Anthony Walker Jr. | LB | Age: 24
Before the season starts, Walker Jr. will be entering his age-25 campaign. He was a part of the 2017 draft class for the Colts and one of the few that has remained in the team’s good graces. After Malik Hooker’s fifth-year option was declined, Walker Jr. may be the first of this class to get a second contract.
Walker Jr. has been a huge part of the defense during the last two seasons. He emerged as a starter in 2018 and has been the quarterback of the unit since. Though he is somewhat limited in coverage, Walker Jr. is a strong run defender and impeccable leader in the middle of the defense.
That said, it would be more likely that the Colts don’t extend Walker Jr. before the season. While there is certainly a chance given what he brings to the field and the locker room, the Colts might be waiting to see who wins the battle at MIKE linebacker between him and second-year defender Bobby Okereke.
When comparing the two players, Okereke is the better fit and has higher upside. Walker Jr. may have better instincts, but Okereke is the better fit. That could lead the Colts to play out Walker Jr.’s contract year to see what type of impact he makes if Okereke continues to emerge as a contributor—like he did during the second half of the 2019 season.