After lost rookie season, Bucs LB David Walker is turning heads again

Last year, Buccaneers rookie linebacker David Walker made a strong impression. However, in the team's third training-camp practice, he suffered a torn ACL. This season, Walker has returned to the field and is once again leaving a lasting impression. "He's got his quickness and speed back," remarked Bucs coach Todd Bowles, as reported by Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.

"As a pass rusher, he's been looking very good in terms of his movements and everything else. When I saw him in pads last year before the injury, I was very excited. He's looking fast." As a fourth-round pick, Walker yearns to make an impact that he was unable to in 2025. "I just want to thank God," Walker said, according to Stroud.

"The injury was significant, and I knew that He didn’t bring me this far to take me this far. So, I had to attack rehab, and I’m here, playing the game I love. It's exciting." The Buccaneers will get a better sense of Walker's abilities when he practices with pads on, starting Monday. "I think he can do almost everything," Bowles said.

"Height-wise, he's likely the shortest of the group. People might forget he's 260-something. He plays with great leverage and power. I believe he's played on both sides. He might even be a good inside kicker, getting off the ball and doing other things like that. So, when he's in pads, we'll see how it all comes together." Walker is taking things one day at a time.

"I'm not trying to look too far ahead. I'm not trying to look at whether I might be playing or not. I'm just doing what I can to compete." If he meets the Buccaneers' expectations, they'll significantly enhance their pass rush. The addition of first-round rookie Reuben Bain Jr. would certainly help.