His 37-yard interception return for a touchdown put the dagger in the Chicago Bears but also placed Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker in the league’s concussion protocol entering Week 2.
Coach Matt LaFleur confirmed Walker, who was evaluated for a concussion after taking a big hit to end the return, is officially in the concussion protocol.
Bears offensive lineman Darnell Wright, a 335-pounder, delivered a crushing hit on Walker as he entered the end zone to finish off the interception return in the fourth quarter. Walker left the contest and didn’t return.
Now in the protocol, Walker must pass through several steps, including clearance from the team and an independent neurological consultant, before he can return to the playing field. The Packers play the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.
In addition to his pick-six, Walker produced four tackles, including a tackle for loss. He was the Packers’ highest-graded defensive player at Pro Football Focus in Week 1.
Third-year linebacker Isaiah McDuffie would start next to De’Vondre Campbell if Walker isn’t able to pass through protocol and play in Week 2.
A rookie in 2022, Walker played in all 17 games. His interception and touchdown on Sunday were both the first of his NFL career.