2025 NFL Draft Player Profile: Kentucky DT Deone Walker
2025 NFL Draft Player Profile Series: #14
In this 2025 NFL Draft Player Profile, we will talk about Kentucky defensive tackle, Deone Walker.
Background
DOB, Age: N/A
Height: 6-6
Weight: 345 pounds
Year/Class: Junior
Recruit: 4-stars (247Sports), 3-stars (ESPN)
Walker joined the University of Kentucky in 2022. Over the past two seasons, he has played in 26 games and recorded 25 starts.
Stats
2022: 40 total tackles (12 solo), 4.5 tackles for loss, one sack, five quarterback hurries, one forced fumble, two passes defended
2023: 55 total tackles (28 solo), 12.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, eight quarterback hurries, two passes defended
A huge jump production was obviously made as a sophomore for Walker. He had a whopping four tackles for loss in one game last season against Missouri. Per PFF, Walker led all defensive tackles in pressures last year with 51. PFF had his pass rush win rate at 14%. Not only did they have Walker record dominant stats against the pass, but he also had success against the run with a grade of 81.7.
Accolades
2022 Freshman All-SEC
2023 Second-Team All-SEC
Traits, Scouting Perspective
Walker offers some tantalizing upside as an NFL draft prospect, to say the least. His movement skills for his size are abnormal. At 345 pounds, his explosion, speed working linearly, and quickness laterally are all exceptional athletic traits. With his massive size, he can generate power and win with strength. Finally, Walker has positional flexibility to line up across the defensive front.
Final Thoughts
Walker’s Outlook for 2024:
In 2024, expect Walker to continue to dominate and build on what he showed last year. An uptick in sacks would be nice. Either way, anticipate him making thrilling plays all over the defensive line.
2025 NFL Draft Status:
Walker is a unique talent. His traits give him the potential to be a top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The way he can move for his size and his versatility will likely make him a polarizing player for NFL teams in this draft. At the defensive tackle position, Walker currently projects to be a top two to three prospect in this class.