Kentucky defensive tackle Deone Walker has been named a second-team preseason All-American by the Associated Press, as announced on Monday. This recognition adds to a growing list of preseason accolades for Walker, who has also been named to several other preseason All-America teams, including First Team by ESPN and Sporting News, and Second Team by Athlon, Phil Steele, USA Today, and Walter Camp. Walker is also featured on multiple award watch lists, including the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award, Outland Trophy, Lombardi Award, and Lott IMPACT Trophy. Additionally, he has been named Preseason All-SEC First Team by Athlon, Media, and Phil Steele.
The 6-foot-6, 348-pound defensive lineman from Detroit is coming off a standout sophomore season in 2023. Despite frequently facing double teams, Walker led Kentucky in tackles for loss (12.5), quarterback sacks (7.5), and quarterback hurries (8). He also contributed two pass breakups, including a crucial one in the Wildcats’ win over Florida on September 30, which was intercepted and set up a touchdown.
Walker was one of seven permanent team captains last season, starting all 13 games and extending his streak to 24 consecutive starts, dating back to his freshman year in 2022. He set or matched single-game career highs across various categories last season, including nine tackles at South Carolina, 4.0 tackles for loss at Missouri, and two quarterback hurries against EKU. Walker earned first-team All-SEC honors from multiple selectors and was named a third-team All-America by the College Football Network in 2023.
