Deone Walker knows if he’s in better shape physically that he can make more plays his sophomore season. (Vicky Graff Photo)
Defensive lineman Deone Walker had an impressive freshman season that earned him national honors and made him the target of a lot of transfer portal speculation. However, the 6-6, 345-pound Walker insists he never thought of leaving UK and believes he can have a much better sophomore season by improving his conditioning.
“It can do a lot because I left so many plays out on the field last year that I feel like if I get a good year in, I’m going to have about a 50-60 tackle season,” he said.
Defensive line coach Anwar Stewart is even toying with the idea of playing Walker at more than just one position this season to enhance his versatility and the overall defense’s flexibility.
“He ain’t done yet. He’s not there. He’s a big kid. We’re still working to get his weight down, using that length,” Stewart said before spring practice ended. “He hasn’t even touched the talent that he can play at and the level he can play at.
“I’ve just got to keep pushing him, keep driving him. Once he gets stronger, he’s just going to be dominant. He’s so long and athletic that once he gets his weight down and continues to eat up that weight room, the sky’s the limit for that kid.”
