Jags feel outside linebacker is ideal position for Walker

The Jacksonville Jaguars are confident they know the best position fit for Travon Walker's NFL career debut.

"I think his best position is outside linebacker because of his length, his athletic ability going against tackles," defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell said, according to John Reid of The Florida Times-Union. "That is a premium position in this defense. He can play other positions, but his home for us is outside linebacker, where we see him being a force."

Walker, 21, thrived at multiple positions within Georgia's national title-winning defense. However, the Jaguars are allowing the rookie to focus on one position as he acclimates to pro competition.

The 6-foot-5, 275-pound Walker brings unique, size, strength, and speed, which led Jacksonville to take him with the first overall pick in the 2022 draft.

"He is unique," Caldwell added. "He plays that way, and you see it on tape. You see the burst, you see the speed, you see the moves he has. We are excited about him, and I think he will be ready to roll."

Walker moonlighted at outside linebacker in college but was not extensively featured at the position. He believes that with more reps entering the campaign, he'll get a firmer grasp of his duties.

"Just strictly working on outside linebacker things in practice, I feel like I'm truly getting more comfortable with the position," Walker said last month, according to team reporter John Oehser. "There's always room for improvement."

While the Jags are not closing the door on working the rookie elsewhere on defense, Walker is embracing a full-time move to the outside so his journey can begin at linebacker.

Jacksonville is aiming to create a productive pass-rush tandem, pairing Walker with veteran Josh Allen. The Jaguars also drafted Devin Lloyd, who they expect to contribute at middle linebacker following Myles Jack's release in March after six seasons.

The Jaguars will get to see some of their younger members in action ahead of their minicamp next week. Most of the team's veterans could miss the three-day session after head coach Doug Pederson excused them from attending due to their pleasing performance at the voluntary OTA sessions.

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