The Vols have already made a strong impression on the 2020 defensive end prospect, with Walker saying that his first offer was unexpected but something hell never forget. It was big, Walker told Volquest at the National Playmakers Academy camp in Nashville last Sunday. Im just trying to stay humble.
Walker, who also holds a scholarship from Louisville, visited Rocky Top a couple weeks ago during Tennessees first Junior Day, getting a chance to meet new defensive line coach Brady Hoke and tour the campus. Hed been to Knoxville one other time last fall, but this trip was different.
It was great, he said. I like the drive that they have to get us to come to their school. The drive that they have to strive for excellence. They want to get a championship (with in-state kids). They put academics first, too.
At just 14-years-old, Walker already stands 6-foot-3, 240-pounds. Doctors expect him to grow at least another three or four inches and weigh around 285 pounds, he said. While defensive end likely remains his ultimate position, Smyrna coaches are tinkering with the idea of playing Walker at linebacker next season. Theres a little talk about moving me the middle linebacker (in 2017) because they want me to play in space, he explained. They said my footwork is good right now, but they want me to excel and get better at it.
While its super early in Walkers recruiting process, the Nashville native freely admits staying close to family will play a key factor in his decision. He liked Butch Jones message of keeping the best players at home, too. Its a big part of it, he said. I want to stay close to my family. They can easily come to my games or if I ever need to contact them or anything its just like a two-hour drive.
