The New England Patriots have quite a few options when it comes to their Draft strategy this year. There is obviously quite a bit of buzz around left tackle, and wide receiver, but could they set their sights on a top ranked defensive prospect? There have been multiple rumors recently that the Patriots are big fans of Georgia linebacker, Jalon Walker. Is Walker an elite prospect? How could he fit into the New England Defense? There are many questions to be answered, so let’s dive in.
Where will Walker be drafted?
Jalon Walker is considered one of this year’s top prospects. There is speculation that he will be a top ten pick, but with the Patriots sitting at fourth overall, would it be wise to trade down before selecting him? If both Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter are off the board at pick four, then many people would like New England to try and trade down. If they can accomplish moving down a few spots, Walker could be the player they bring to Foxborough. If they can’t trade down, fourth overall may be a little too rich to take Walker, but they may not see it that way.
How will Walker fit into the Patriots Defense?
The Patriots have made some huge additions on the defensive side of the ball in Free Agency. By adding another elite playmaker in Jalon Walker, we could see this defense turn into one of the top units in the NFL. Not to mention New England’s defensive line already consists of Milton Williams, Christian Barmore, Harold Landry, and Keion White. Williams is a game wrecker and will need to be accounted for, which could leave Walker with some favorable matchups as a pass rusher. His athleticism and speed, will give him an advantage over quite a few NFL offensive tackles, and will let him maximize his potential at the next level.
Is Walker the ideal Mike Vrabel type of player?
Mike Vrabel is big on players that show off effort and willingness to do whatever it takes to win. That is exactly who Walker is, and he shows it every play on film. His finish and nastiness is unmatched, and he was a true heat seeking missile in the Georgia defense. Coach Vrabel has made it clear that he wants to establish a culture in New England, and Walker could be the perfect selection to help turn that into a reality. A Patriots defense that consists of franchise cornerstones such as Christian Gonzalez, Milton Williams, Christian Barmore, and potentially Jalon Walker, could be a scary sight for the AFC East for years to come.
