Kentucky football is not having the season they wanted or expected. After their loss to their loss to the Tennessee Volunteers in week ten, they’re 3 – 6 on the year, and have lost four straight.
They do, however, have some players who have performed well, and guys who are legitimate NFL Draft prospects. One of those is massive defensive lineman Deone Walker, who is projected to be an early pick by most analysts.
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Walker had a coming out party in 2023, displaying quickness and pass rush ability that don’t normally come with a guy that’s 345 lbs. He’s not having the same statistical season this year, but he’s still a potential first round pick, and two recent mock drafts, still have him there.
CBS Sports
CBS draft anaylist Chris Trapasso projects Walker to be selected 28th overall by the Minnesota Vikings. Here’s what he said about the pick:
The Vikings add an enormous and athletic defensive tackle to make life easier for their outside rushers in Brian Flores’ blitz-obsessed scheme.
Bleacher Report
The Bleacher Report scouting team also put together a new mock draft and are a little higher on Walker. They have him being selected 23rd overall by the Green Bay Packers.
The Green Bay Packers might be the ideal landing spot for Walker. Kenny Clark, who turns 30 next season, could serve as a mentor for him. Meanwhile, T.J. Slaton is a free agent after this season. Walker could be worked into the rotation as he learns to be a professional.