Back in August I compiled a list of the ten Georgia Bulldogs I expected to take a step forward in 2017: Ten ‘Dawgs Poised to Pounce.
#9 on the list was junior linebacker D’Andre Walker. Of Walker I said:
D’Andre Walker’s job is to be what those guys were in 2016: a talented former blue chip recruit making the next step. The former Langston Hughes High standout has played in all 26 games of his UGA career, 13 each as a freshman and sophomore. But he’s never started a one. That’s because in both seasons the Red and Black were stacked with guys in front of him. In addition to Carter and Bellamy Walker’s played behind the likes of current New York Jet Jordan Jenkins and Chicago Bear Leonard Floyd. It’s not Walker’s turn yet. But it will be soon. And 2017 will be all about positioning himself to become the guy next year.
Was I right? Did Walker in fact meet our high expectations?
If anything, he surpassed them. The former Langston Hughes standout came into the season with 28 total tackles. He then tallied 39, including 20 solo stops, while playing in all 15 games on the season. Walker also secured career highs in tackles for loss (13.5) and sacks (5.5). Walker was second on the team and only slightly behind defensive MVP and Butkus Award winner Roquan Smith in both categories, despite playing far fewer snaps. Walker actually quietly led the team in sacks going into the SEC Championship Game.
As the year progressed he emerged as the Red and Black’s go-to pass rusher off the edge, at times looking a little like Leonard Floyd in that capacity. Like Floyd, Walker has the potential to be unstoppable when he gets going. For example, in the fourth quarter against Georgia Tech, Walker made three straight stops, including a tackle for a loss on third down, to force the Jackets to punt. The ability to take over a series off the edge can be a huge asset defensively.
Looking ahead to 2018 Walker will join the race to replace Bellamy and Carter on the outside as an every down linebacker. Freshman Walter Grant showed great promise this season, and freshman Nate McBride could also get a look on the outside after an impressive 2017. But rising senior Walker should be the odds on favorite for one of the two vacant starting spots at outside linebacker. Until later...
Go ‘Dawgs!!!
This post first appeared on Dawg Sports, A Georgia Bulldogs Community, please read the originial post: here
