The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine is in full swing down in Indianapolis. Teams around the league are all in one location, meeting with the top prospects in the nation.
Panthers general manager Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales have taken the trip to get a better understanding for these players, and one guy is already angling to land with Carolina.
Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker was speaking with reporters on Wednesday morning. During that session, he expressed that he would welcome the opportunity to play for the Panthers.
Walker is from North Carolina and is open to playing for his home state team due to the proximity of his family.
He stated, "I don’t have many family members who don’t live in North Carolina or South Carolina.”
“I don’t have many family members who don’t live in North Carolina or South Carolina.”
— Mike Kaye (@mike_e_kaye) February 26, 2025
Jalon Walker would embrace opportunity to play “at home” w/ #Panthers.
He thinks he’s best as movable chess piece. Claims #Eagles edge Nolan Smith was his mentor.
Walker on his football… pic.twitter.com/IkgmpBxzzq
Jalon Walker Open to Playing With Panthers
Walker played his high school ball at Salisbury High School before heading to the University of Georgia.
He's an athletic pass-rusher who can win with speed and power. Walker owns terrific eye discipline in the run game and has active hands. In 43 college games, Walker has compiled 89 total tackles, 19 TFLs, 12.5 sacks, and three pass deflections.
Carolina is in desperate need of improving their pass rush, and Walker is someone who could fill that need. Morgan has stated that he's looking for explosiveness and athleticism off the edge. Walker fills both of those needs and could be an option at No. 8 overall.
During the 2024 season, Carolina was tied for 30th in the NFL in team sacks (32), so the need is clear. Walker has the tools that teams look for in an edge rusher. Despite failing to log more than 6.5 sacks in a season, his arrow is pointing up. He's only 21 years old, and his best days are ahead of him.