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David Walker continues to dominate
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- David Walker continues to dominate
David Walker is making a strong case for a larger role in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ' defense. The second-year outside linebacker continues to produce as a pass rusher, and his performance against the Carolina Panthers gave Todd Bowles another reason to increase his workload. Walker played 30 defensive snaps against Carolina, accounting for 54% of Tampa Bay's defensive plays. That was the second-highest snap total among the Buccaneers' outside linebackers, but his continued production suggests he can take on an even bigger role.
Through his first six games, Walker recorded four sacks, including a two-sack performance against Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He has generated that production despite limited playing time, making his efficiency one of the most encouraging developments for a Tampa Bay defense that has struggled to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks. Walker's ability to win one-on-one matchups is a major part of his appeal. He can threaten tackles with his speed around the edge, then use inside counters when opponents overcommit to protecting the outside. That versatility makes him hard to prepare for, especially as he gains experience and becomes more comfortable at the NFL level.
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His development is especially notable after he missed his entire rookie season with a knee injury. Tampa Bay selected Walker in the fourth round of the 2025 draft after he recorded 31 sacks at Central Arkansas. His college production is beginning to translate to the professional game, and he is giving the Buccaneers another legitimate option off the edge. The Panthers game also showed why Tampa Bay should continue investing in its younger pass rushers. Yaya Diaby recorded three sacks on 22 defensive snaps, demonstrating how impactful an edge rusher can be without playing every down. Walker's production gives the coaching staff another player who can make the most of his opportunities. The Buccaneers need to keep expanding his workload. More snaps would give him more chances to impact games while helping Tampa Bay build a deeper, more consistent pass rush. Walker has already shown he can get to the quarterback. Now the Buccaneers need to find out how much more he can contribute with a bigger role.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: David Walker continues to dominate
