Between the Jordan Davis Heisman push and the emergence of Jalen Carter, it’s easy to lose sight of Travon Walker. Or at least, as easy as it is to ignore a 6-foot-5, 275-poound “freak of nature” per his head coach.
“I do not know how many years that it will be before I coach a guy who is that big that can run like that and has really good stamina with great toughness and effort,” Smart said. “His stats may not be the best in the world, or they may not be what Azeez’s (Ojulari) are, but he is playing really well.”
Walker’s athleticism does offer him one advantage over the likes of Davis and Carter, as it allows the junior to stay on the field for all three downs. Walker will line up on the edge on early downs before kicking inside on obvious passing situations.
Add in that he is in his first year as a starter after taking over at the defensive end position, Walker feels that he’s just starting to scratch the surface as far as his immense potential.
“The more snaps the more I get, the more comfortable I get,” Walker said. “Being able to be out there making plays, being able to contribute on first, second and third, that helps me develop my game a lot. I get more reps and I learn more from that.”
After notching a sack in the season-opener against Clemson, Walker went through a dry spell. But he’s picked up sacks in the wins over Auburn and Kentucky. The junior still has some ground to make up to replicate what Ojulari brought to Georgia last season, but he’s a proven contributor when opposing teams drop back to pass.
He’s also a key part of the Georgia run defense, which leads the country in rushing yards allowed. Florida, the next opponent for Georgia, comes in leading the country in rushing yards per attempt.
Walker will need to continue to play well if Georgia is to slow the Florida offense, one that is likely to be led by the athletic marvel that is Anthony Richardson.
“He is playing really physical,” Smart said of Walker. “He is playing a lot of snaps, and I am really proud of what he is doing in terms of leadership for our team.”
Walker recognizes that he’s had to become a vocal leader for this Georgia team. While he isn’t necessarily outspoken, his deep voice is one that is heard loud and clear by his teammates.
“Travon Walker is a dog. He’s one of the guys who is going to step up,” defensive back Latavious Brini said. “He’s going to voice his opinion, and on this team we need guys like that.”
Walker’s best football days are likely still ahead of him. Part of that can be chalked up to the position he plays in the Georgia defense. His athleticism being so outrageous likely contributes to that as well. It’s why you’ve seen some draft experts mention Walker as a possible high draft pick.
For now, Walker is still focused on being a leader and every-down player for this Georgia defense.
“It is really an honor to be around all these guys,” Walker said. “Different players get shine every week, and that says something positive about the defense.”
Travon Walker still getting better for Georgia football defensive line
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