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UGA Football LB Jalon Walker Should Be A National Name This Fall

August 18, 2024
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ATHENS - Kirby Smart and Glenn Schumann have a Swiss-army knife on defense as it relates to hybrid linebacker, Jalon Walker‍.

Arguably the very best pass rusher on the team, Walker can line up outside or inside, giving the Georgia Bulldog staff a tough, hard-hitting, pass-rushing linebacker who can play all over the field.

Walker, who is quickly becoming a team leader, spoke with reporters last week about his progress, development, and much more.

On cross-training as a linebacker…

“I've been blessed to be able to play both positions, and I just call myself a hybrid linebacker at this point - being able to play on the edge and being able to play in space and in the box as well. Coach Schumann has done a great job of developing me at the inside backer position because before I got here, I didn't play inside backer. I feel like I've grown tremendously there throughout my time here. And then being on the edge with Coach Diribe, as well. He helps me a lot. The edge is my natural habitat, so I use that to the best of my ability. But I feel great being able to play both positions and being a hybrid linebacker.


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On getting comfortable at the inside linebacker position…

“During my setback of having a high ankle sprain in the spring, I got to learn more through coaching in the inside backer position. By watching those guys go out there and practice and compete, that opportunity got me to really dive into the details of being an inside backer. Throughout our summer as well, I’ve had my inside backer reps for our 7-on-7. Then I've had my pass rush days as well. So, having the balance of both throughout camp and throughout the season has been great. During this fall camp, I've been able to have the opportunity to sit in the outside back room and the inside back room, as well.”

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On the progression of Quintavius Johnson…

“He's just a great athlete overall. I'm just excited to see him grow up. Since the spring, I’ve seen his strides to become a better player throughout the year. So, I'm just proud of him and his accomplishments.”

Kirby Smart on maximizing Jalon Walker…

With Jalon, we have to expand his role because he's a talented player, and the best way to expand his role is to continue to develop him as a hybrid player, while also maximizing his opportunities to do what he does best. He's really improved in both areas, and the way he's attacked practice, both from an effort and a leadership standpoint, has been really impressive, so I'm excited about where he's going.”


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