Rachel Waters Photo
Deone Walker has a chance to be a very special football player for Kentucky. He could be the best defensive lineman in the Mark Stoops’ era and one of the best in the past 25-30 years based on what he did during his freshman All-American season in 2022.
But I really liked what Stoops had to say about more than just his size and strength that makes him a dominating force in that defensive front for the Wildcats.
“The first thing I notice with him is he’s got some natural leadership qualities. Everybody looks at his physical stature, the way he plays. But maturity and growth in that way is extremely important,” Stoops said.
“Even as a freshman, he had a way, if you watch him, to lead without being overly vocal. I appreciate that about him because he’s really a team guy.”
Stoops expects “big” things out of his massive defensive lineman who is becoming a more vocal player/leader.
“I’m seeing him lead and be comfortable doing it. On the field it will translate. He’s had a full off-season. He’s had the strength and conditioning. He looks quick. He looks in shape,” Stoops said.
