Chiefs scouting report: Missouri Tigers DE Johnny Walker Jr.
The Kansas City Chiefs recently re-signed Charles Omenihu to keep their defensive front intact, but they need to add some new faces through the 2025 NFL draft. Philadelphia's offensive line exposed Kansas City's limitations along the defensive front during Super Bowl LIX. The Chiefs should select several new linemen this spring.
Missouri Tigers defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. boasts an impressive frame. His 33" arms don't stand out in a crowded edge rusher class, but he excels at maximizing their reach and disruptive power. Walker keeps offensive linemen out of his frame with his combative hands. When linemen breach his defenses, he attacks their arms at the elbow to neutralize the threat.
Walker's pass rush plan includes chops, long-arms, rips, spins and speed rushes through the B-gap. He channels power through his arms and drives his legs to put offensive linemen on their heels and walk them into the pocket. He converts speed into power for some explosive pass rush wins. Walker lacks ideal bend but shows flashes of using his long strides to whip around the corner and penetrate the pocket.
Play of the Day No. 19: Here's Johnny! Missouri's Johnny Walker rips under right tackle Elijah Pritchett before dropping the hammer on Jalen Milroe (Missouri vs. Alabama, 2024). #POTD pic.twitter.com/CwmVsHtzgM
— Sam Teets (@Sam_Teets33) March 10, 2025
Walker lacks the elite burst and speed to provide a consistent presence rushing off the edge. His bull rush gradually wears down, and he lacks the counters to revive his attack. Walker's limited bend prevents him from winning quickly around the offensive tackle's outside shoulder.
Walker uses his length and natural power to stack blocks at the point of attack in the run game. His block shedding technique and timing need to improve, but he meets the physical requirements to become a reliable run defender.
Walker's power profile as a pass rusher and work at the point of attack make him a stout lineman whose game mimics some current Chiefs. Despite a strong showing at the East-West Shrine Bowl, Walker didn't receive an invitation to the NFL Combine. He projects as a fifth or sixth round selection.
This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: 2025 NFL draft scouting report: Missouri Tigers DE Johnny Walker Jr.
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