Free agent profile: Defensive end DeMarcus Walker

There’s likely to be a bit of shake-up for the defensive line of the Broncos this offseason. DeMarcus Walker is an Unrestricted Free Agent at this point and may find greener pastures to continue his career at. Will the Broncos pursue him in free agency?

Player Profile

Height: 6’ 4”
Weight: 280 pounds
Age: 26 years old
Experience: 5 seasons

Why it makes sense

As a rotational defensive lineman, DeMarcus Walker is a super fit for what Vic Fangio needs on his defensive front. He’s powerful, technical, and provides a dangerous change-up in pass-rushing situations.

While Walker has had positive play in his first 4 years in the league, he’s not really shown a high enough level of play to demand a starting position or the salary that requires. If he’s willing to sign a reasonable contract, it seems like a no-brainer to keep him on the team.

Why it doesn’t make sense

The main problem is that Walker only saw around 35% of the team’s snaps on defense over the course of the 2020 season. If he was more effective, you would think he’d get more time on the field.

It may just be that Vic Fangio and George Paton may want to upgrade this spot to a player that brings more ability to take snaps at a higher level than what Walker has been able to do thus far.

Final Thoughts

The big question with Walker is more along the lines of does any other NFL team like what they see from him and think he’s a better fit for their defense? Being an unrestricted free agent, he can listen to any offers that come his way and if any team even hints at more starting time for him, he’s likely to leave.

I like Walker as a player though. In his few opportunities, he’s popped to my eyes and been a positive force for the defensive line. Hopefully we see another situation similar to last year with Shelby Harris where there just isn’t enough interest outside of Denver for him to want to leave.