There is a lot of potential for the Packers this season, especially at the inside linebacker position. That has been a position of weakness for them for a long time, but now it is a huge strength. Veteran De’Vondre Campbell and second-year player Quay Walker lead this position group.
These two really could be very good together this year on the Packers’ defense. The question is, do both De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker give the Packers the best inside linebacker duo in the NFL?
Do the Packers Have the Best NFL Inside Linebacker Duo?
Solid In Pass-Coverage
The Packers struggled with inside linebacker pass coverage for many years, but De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker have changed that. Campbell excels in the middle of the field, handling tight ends and running backs in man coverage. Walker is very impressive, too, as he allowed a 50% catch rate in 2022, second only to Fred Warner, who is considered the best inside linebacker in the NFL. This is impressive to see what both of these players bring against the pass on the Packers’ defense. The Packers could have one of the best coverage linebacker duos in the NFL this season.
De’Vondre Campbell’s Injury Affected His Play
De’Vondre Campbell struggled with injuries last season, which affected his performance. He revealed that he had a nagging shoulder injury that he never told anyone about and then injured his knee in the next game. It does show we do not know what athletes are going through behind the scenes as they put their bodies on the line for our entertainment. When Campbell is at full strength, he has been one of the best inside linebackers in the NFL, as evidenced by his First-Team All-Pro selection in 2021.
Quay Walker Taking That Second-Year Jump
As a rookie, Quay Walker demonstrated potential with flashes of speed and confidence toward the end of the season. Despite struggling to adapt to the NFL’s pace, he led all rookies in 2022 with 121 tackles. With one season under his belt, he is expected to make a significant leap forward in his second year. Quay Walker has all of the ability in the world to become a great inside linebacker in the NFL, and being alongside De’Vondre Campbell, he is due to have a breakout season this year.
Can Get After the Quarterback
De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker were effective at blitzing, but defensive coordinator Joe Barry didn’t use them regularly there. Utilizing the A gaps and third down blitzing can keep the opposing offense guessing. Quay Walker could also rush off the edge, as he did in college. Expect to see both players in multiple blitz packages this year on the Packers’ defense.
Familiar With Each Other
De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker are in their second year of playing together. In their first year, they struggled at times while playing together, but towards the end of the season, their chemistry improved and helped the defense. Both are capable of wearing the green dot and calling the defense as inside linebackers, which is very important for this defense under Joe Barry. If they can stay healthy and build off their momentum from last year, they could give the Packers one of the best front sevens in football.
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