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Jets Linebacker Mykal Walker Emerging as Surprise Star at Training Camp
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- Jets Linebacker Mykal Walker Emerging as Surprise Star at Training Camp
The Jets have been looking for impact players on defense, and they may have found one in linebacker Mykal Walker .
Walker, who has split his duties between linebacker and special teams, has been one of the more pleasant surprises in training camp so far, emerging as a potential rotational piece for Gang Green as camp continues.
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Mykal Walker Emerges as Jets Training Camp Surprise
New York Post reporter Brian Costello revealed that Mykal Walker has been one of the biggest surprises for the Jets during training camp.
"Linebacker depth has been a question for the Jets, but backup linebacker Mykal Walker has stood out early in camp," Costello wrote. Walker picked off Bailey Zappe on Friday, a day after intercepting a Cade Klubnik pass. Walker also is a standout on special teams."
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The Jets Linebacker Situation
Oct 26, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; New York Jets linebacker Mykal Walker (53) celebrates after winning the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
The Jets aren't without questions at the linebacker position; however, Walker's emergence could give the Jets another option in the rotation.
Walker spent much of his career bouncing around the league after being drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft , making stops with the Steelers, Raiders, Commanders and Cardinals.
He signed with the Jets in 2025 and eventually made their practice squad.
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Now, he finds himself in New York with an opportunity to carve out a role on a Jets team that struggled defensively last season .
The Jets made a notable addition to their linebacker corps in the offseason by bringing back veteran Demario Davis . His experience could be valuable for a young linebacker room as the Jets look to improve defensively.
Walker, Jamien Sherwood , and Marcelino McCrary-Ball have a chance to compete for playing time and establish themselves within the Jets' rotation.
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Walker, in particular, has already made a significant impact during training camp, and his ability to contribute on special teams could further increase his value.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
