It appears that this pass-rusher is starting to draw attention on the open market, with the New York Giants hosting Him for a visit this week. Reports indicate that the Giants weren’t his only stop—He also met with the Detroit Lions, suggesting he has multiple opportunities available if teams show interest.
A second-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft out of Florida State, He began his career with the Denver Broncos, aiming to solidify his role as a dependable edge rusher. However, injuries hindered his early development.
After bouncing around between the Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans, He had a resurgence with the Titans in 2022, recording 32 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and seven sacks. His performance earned him a three-year, $21 million deal from the Chicago Bears.
Over the past two seasons, he appeared in 29 of 34 games and registered 47 tackles in 2024. Still, with the Bears shifting direction under a new regime and needing to free up cap space, Walker was released this offseason along with tight end Gerald Everett.
While he may not be one of the marquee names available or a guaranteed Week 1 starter, both the Giants and Lions present intriguing opportunities that could be tough for Walker to pass up.
Ravens, Chargers Could Intervene in Giants Free Agent Demarcus Walker Visit
More Edge Help
While the Baltimore Ravens boast one of the league’s most dynamic offenses led by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, their defense has been on the decline. The departure of Jadeveon Clowney last offseason has noticeably impacted their pass rush.
Bringing in Walker would be a low-risk move for the Ravens, especially since he may be eager to join a contender. At this point, players like Broderick Washington and Travis Jones aren’t likely to boost the team’s Super Bowl hopes, though the defense still has a solid core.
That includes edge rushers Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, and Nnamdi Madubuike. Even if Walker doesn’t become a star in Baltimore, he doesn’t need to. He’s a talented pass rusher who could thrive with a fresh start, and the Ravens could be the perfect place for that.
Jim in the Trenches
The same applies to the Los Angeles Chargers, who are set to look significantly different heading into the 2025 season. With Poona Ford gone after an explosive campaign, the team has yet to find a reliable replacement.
Considering their strong salary cap position, the lack of urgency to address that hole raises questions about Jim Harbaugh’s priorities. Da’Shawn Hand isn’t likely to produce more than a handful of sacks, so signing Walker—even on a budget deal—would be a smart move.
While Khalil Mack is expected to return, it’s unrealistic to anticipate elite production from him without more support on the defensive front. Walker might not be a game-changer, but he’s certainly an upgrade over the current options on the Chargers’ roster.
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