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The Green Bay Packers are facing a significant decision regarding the future of linebacker Quay Walker. A former first-round pick out of Georgia, Walker has flashed potential but has yet to establish himself as an indispensable part of Green Bay’s defense. Remember that the Packers will retool their roster for a deeper playoff run. As such, Walker could emerge as a prime trade candidate. With that in mind, we rank the three best potential landing spots for him in the 2025 NFL offseason.
Originally drafted to solidify the heart of Green Bay’s defense, Walker has yet to fully meet expectations through his first three seasons. Sure, he has shown growth as a tackler. However, his struggles in pass coverage remain a concern. He allowed receptions on 78.8 percent of targets while surrendering an average of 9.1 yards per catch in 2024.
Injuries have also hindered his development. This has opened the door for others to step up in his absence. Second-round rookie Edgerrin Cooper has impressed, and even veteran Eric Wilson has provided steadier contributions. Yes, the Packers could opt to give Walker one more season to prove himself. This is particularly true if they decline his fifth-year option. That said, there’s a real possibility that general manager Brian Gutekunst decides to move on and explore trade options. Given Green Bay’s long-term outlook, a trade seems like a strong possibility.
Here we’ll try to rank the three best Quay Walker trade destinations in 2025 NFL offseason in case he leaves the Green Bay Packers.
The Cardinals enter the 2025 offseason with a glaring need at off-ball linebacker. Arizona’s linebacker group struggled throughout 2024. That makes it a priority position for upgrades. Compounding the issue, key contributors Kyzir White, Baron Browning, and Krys Barnes are all set to hit free agency. This leaves the team with only Mack Wilson Sr and Owen Pappoe as their most reliable options. However, calling them “dependable” may also be a stretch.
Given these circumstances, Arizona will need to add at least two new linebackers to reinforce the position. With immediate contributors in high demand, the Cardinals might not have the luxury of waiting for a rookie to develop. This is where Quay Walker could provide an instant impact.
Despite his inconsistencies, Walker has recorded over 100 tackles in each of his seasons with the Packers. However, frequent mental lapses and questionable decision-making have seemingly put him at odds with the Packers’ coaching staff. With Cooper emerging as a key piece in Green Bay’s linebacker corps alongside Isaiah McDuffie, Walker’s role has become less secure. If the Packers opt not to exercise his fifth-year option, he could be a prime trade candidate.
For the Cardinals, Walker’s flaws shouldn’t be a dealbreaker. As long as they can acquire him at a reasonable price, adding him to the roster would provide much-needed athleticism and experience.
The Buccaneers have relied on their defense...
