Trusted NFL analyst projects Jaguars OLB Travon Walker worst/best case

The first overall pick in the NFL draft is expected to become a franchise building block, so what kind of impact will outside linebacker Travon Walker, the top selection this year, have for the Jacksonville Jaguars in his rookie season? Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Media recently talked about it.

Jeremiah took a look at the best/worst scenarios for every NFL rookie and says that Walker should have an immediate impact against the run. On the other hand, he thinks that he might need an adjustment period as he “evolves as a pass rusher”. Here’s the best case projection:

"Walker dominates against the run from the jump and the opportunity to settle in at one position accelerates his development as a pass rusher. He pairs with Josh Allen to form one of the best young edge-rushing duos in the league."

And here’s the best-case scenario:

"Walker dominates against the run from the jump and the opportunity to settle in at one position accelerates his development as a pass rusher. He pairs with Josh Allen to form one of the best young edge-rushing duos in the league."

Jeremiah projects Walker to have seven sacks and 50 total tackles as a rookie, which might be a tad low but it’s realistic when you take into account that the Georgia native is playing outside linebacker full-time after having lined up at different spots in college.

The Jaguars must temper expectations for Travon Walker in 2022

Jeremiah is one of the most respected draft analysts, so his opinion carries plenty of weight. When projecting Walker’s rookie totals he’s taking into consideration that he’s making a position switch. The Jaguars also thought the same when they drafted and adjusted their expectations accordingly.

Seven sacks seem a bit low but seem like a realistic number and possibly generous. That’s the amount Myles Garrett, the No. 1 pick in 2017, had in his rookie season. Jadeveon Clowney, the top selection in 2014, missed most of his first NFL campaign and logged a combined 10.5 sacks the following two years. Similarly, Khalil Mack (fourth overall in 2014) managed to get four as a rookie.

More often than not, pass rushers find their groove in their sophomore campaign. Nick (San Francisco 49ers) and Joey (Los Angeles Chargers) Bosa made an impact right off the bat, and so did Maxx Crosby for the Las Vegas Raiders. However, all pass rushers are different and the Jaguars can’t expect Walker to rack up 10 sacks right off the gate. Instead, they need to focus on his development and make sure he makes take steps forward than backward.

Walker is off to a good start. So far, he’s showcased the athleticism and power that made him the top pick in the draft. He’s fared well in the preseason and should have a solid outing against the Atlanta Falcons Saturday if he suits up. It will be interesting to see how he performs in the regular season and if he can indeed break Josh Allen’s rookie sack record.