When the Green Bay Packers selected linebacker Quay Walker with the 22nd overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, expectations were sky-high. He was expected to be a game-changing presence in the middle of the defense, playing alongside stars like Jaire Alexander and Kenny Clark.
The Packers needed Walker to make an immediate impact as they pursued a Super Bowl run. However, his early career didn’t unfold as planned.
As the highest-drafted linebacker in his class, Walker struggled from the start. In his first six career games, he posted a 50.9 defensive grade, according to Pro Football Focus. His rookie season was marred by inconsistency and undisciplined play, highlighted by two ejections for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The first occurred against the Buffalo Bills when he shoved a practice squad player on the sideline. The second, even more controversial, came when he pushed a Detroit Lions team physician who was tending to an injured player.
Walker needed to mature quickly, and in 2023, he showed significant improvement. Though he didn’t earn Pro Bowl honors, his game took a noticeable step forward. He carried that momentum into 2024, drawing high praise from one of his All-Pro teammates.
Xavier McKinney Praises Quay Walker
During a recent episode of NFL Spotlight with Ari Meirov, Xavier McKinney was asked which player should be featured on the show next. Without hesitation, he praised Quay Walker.
“Quay Walker, I think he’s a hell of a linebacker,” McKinney said. “I think he does a lot of great things for our team. He’s one of the best linebackers in the league. There are things he can do that a lot of other linebackers simply can’t. I think he’s going to keep improving and growing as a player.”
McKinney then made a bold prediction about Walker’s future.
“In the future, he’s going to be the best linebacker in the league. You can mark that down. Next year and beyond, he should be in the spotlight.”
Walker played 13 games in 2024, recording 102 tackles and nine tackles for loss. He also took a major step forward in pass coverage, allowing zero receiving touchdowns for the first time in his career. According to Pro Football Focus, he put together his best seasons in both run defense and pass rushing.
Packers’ Plans for Walker in 2025 and Beyond
With the emergence of rookie Edgerrin Cooper, the Packers hope McKinney’s prediction comes true. If Walker continues to develop, Green Bay could have two elite defenders anchoring the middle of the field, a crucial asset in today’s NFL.
While Walker has faced some struggles in coverage, his athleticism suggests he has the potential to make another leap, just as he did in his second season.
The 2025 season marks the final year of Walker’s rookie contract. By May, the Packers must decide whether to exercise his fifth-year option or risk losing him in free agency in 2026. If McKinney has any say in the matter, Walker will remain a key part of Green Bay’s defense for years to come.
