Jalon Walker was the first Georgia Bulldog to be selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the first or second round since 1966. That is a lot of pressure on a young kid starting his professional career as all eyes of Bulldog fans are on him, especially as he begins his career in the NFL. However, it seems like Walker is fitting in just fine in Atlanta and even turning the heads of the entire coaching staff.
Walker was obviously present in the Falcons' rookie mini-camp and was a standout while there, showing off his athleticism and power on he field. Walker was drafted by the Falcons to help with the team's EDGE rushing problem, and it is expected he will one day be a strong starter on the line. However, everything takes time, even if Walker is seriously impressing at OTAs now.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris spoke to the media on Monday to give an update on the team, and he spoke very highly of the young rookie and is happy with what he is seeing. While Walker may not be getting first-team snaps right now, OTAs are basically glorified walkthroughs anyway. The offseason is still in an early stage, and competing with veterans is a tough job right now, but Walker is showing something great.
"Jalon Walker has been absolutely awesome," Morris said. "To watch his urgency and how he practices, his attention to detail. He knows how to practice at a very high level, he wants to get better and better every single day, and he seems like he does."
Walker is performing the basic needs of being a rookie, and he is well past the "let's just see how he does" stage. He isn't waiting to make adjustments, he is going to be coached and making improvements right away, something Morris loves about the young pass rusher.
"You just tell him something and he goes out and does it the first time every time," Morris said.
Walker has made his presence known in the Falcons' building, talking with coaches, and is eager to continue to get better. While he may not be named captain just yet, there is hope for the future, and it seems Morris sees a bright career for Walker.
There is still a lot of time between now and the official start of the NFL season, so Walker still has a ways to go, but it seems he is on a good trajectory so far.