The Atlanta Falcons prioritized defense in the 2025 NFL Draft as their first four selections came on that side of the ball, and their top pick is already turning heads at minicamp.
Raheem Morris and the Falcons front office made former University of Georgia standout Jalon Walker the No. 11 overall pick in last month's draft. Fast forward to today, and he is sending Falcons fans into a minicamp frenzy with his physical skills as he exploded through a drill using a pop-up tackle sled.
Jalon Walker Takes Part of Rookie Minicamp on Friday
The power and explosiveness on display in the video clip above will be enough to give opposing offensive linemen and their coaches nightmares. Walker was brought to Atlanta to get into the offensive backfield and blow up plays, something he did quite well during his time at Georgia.
As good as the SEC it, the NFL is a different level of competition. Despite that being the case, Walker's production year in and year out on the biggest stage the college game has to offer is not something that can be ignored. In Walker, Atlanta is getting a player who comes with a championship pedigree in addition to the physical gifts he possesses.
During his three-year collegiate career, Walker racked up 89 total tackles, 19 of which came for a loss, and 12.5 sacks in 43 games played. Walker also recovered two fumbles while forcing another. His junior season in Athens was by far his best as the linebacker recorded 60 total tackles and 6.5 sacks before entering his name in the draft and, ultimately, becoming a Falcon.
With Walker joining forces with fellow first-round pick James Pearce, Atlanta's coaching staff has two dangerous weapons at their disposal to unleash upon opposing quarterbacks.
If Walker can treat opposing offensive linemen in the same manner he did this tackling sled, Falcons fans can expect to see some big hits from their top overall pick once the 2025 season kicks off.