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David Walker out for season with ACL injury

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie David Walker has a torn ACL and will miss the entire season.

July 28, 2025 at 12:32 PM

Buccaneers' David Walker out for season with ACL tear

David Walker's ACL injury leaves the Buccaneers searching for depth in their defensive lineup.

Buccaneers' rookie David Walker suffers season-ending injury

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie edge rusher David Walker has suffered a torn ACL and will miss the entire season, sources confirmed. The injury occurred during practice, significantly impacting the team's defensive strategy. Walker, selected as a fourth-round pick in the 2023 draft, was set to back up starters Haason Reddick and Yaya Diaby. The Central Arkansas standout had an impressive college career, leading the FCS last season with 23 tackles for loss and winning the Buck Buchanan Award for the best defensive player.

Key Takeaways

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David Walker suffered a torn ACL during practice.

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He will miss the entire 2023 NFL season.

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Walker was a fourth-round pick known for his defensive skills.

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He led the FCS with 23 tackles for loss last season.

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His absence raises concerns about team depth.

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Tampa Bay needs to adjust their defensive strategy now.

"Tampa Bay needs to adjust their approach without Walker."

This highlights the pressure on the team to find solutions quickly.

"David Walker was expected to be a key player this season."

His potential was recognized after a standout college career.

This setback places added pressure on the Buccaneers' defensive unit as they begin the season without a key player. Walker was not only seen as a future talent but also as a crucial element for providing a strong pass rush. With his absence, Tampa Bay may need to rethink their approach on defense, leaning heavily on Reddick and Diaby to fill the gap. Injuries like these can shift team dynamics and create opportunities for other players, but they also raise concerns about depth and overall performance going forward.