The Central Arkansas product was selected by the Bucs in the fourth round with the No. 121 overall pick after being named the FCS National Defensive Player of the Year. In 2024, Walker racked up 62 tackles, 10.5 sacks and four forced fumbles. He recorded 31 sacks in three seasons for the Bears and drew comparisons to Brandon Graham as a prospect.

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Buccaneers rookie linebacker David Walker tore an ACL and likely will miss the rest of the season.

Buccaneers fourth-round pick David Walker's rookie season has come to an early end. Walker was injured in Friday's practice and multiple reports on Monday morning say that the linebacker suffered a torn ACL. Once the Bucs confirm the news, Walker will be placed on injured reserve to start the process of working his way back for the 2026 season.