Travon Walker has cashed in on the promise that made him the top pick in the 2022 NFL draft.
The former Georgia Bulldog was taken first overall in the 2022 NFL Draft and has been a steady presence on the Jacksonville Jaguars' defense ever since. Over four seasons, he's totaled 101 solo tackles, 99 assists, 27.5 sacks and 36 tackles for loss, adding two fumble recoveries and an interception.
He even made an immediate impression in his NFL debut, recording a sack and an interception in a 28-22 loss to the Washington Commanders. Last season was hampered by injuries though. Walker played just 14 games, started 12, and finished with 44 pressures and 3.5 sacks.
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Jaguars reward Travon Walker with major investment
The Jaguars locked up their defensive cornerstone on Friday, agreeing to a four-year extension worth $110 million with the former Georgia Bulldog. The deal averages $27.5 million per year and includes $77 million in total guarantees with $50 million fully secured at signing, per his agency.
Walker was already under contract through 2026 on his rookie deal but Jacksonville moved early to get this done. That puts Walker 12th among NFL edge rushers in average annual value.
His name often gets mentioned alongside Aidan Hutchinson, the second overall pick in that same draft who went to the Detroit Lions.
Hutchinson has the edge in pass-rush production, earned two Pro Bowl selections and signed a four-year $180 million extension in October. Walker meanwhile has grown into a key piece of a Jacksonville defense that ranked second in the league with 31 takeaways last season.
General Manager James Gladstone confirmed the extension talks this week at the Annual League Meeting and also flagged Parker Washington and Brenton Strange as players the team is looking to extend down the road.
