As the Green Bay Packers wrap up their offseason program and head into training camp, all eyes are on Quay Walker, the team’s former first-round pick who is still a big piece of their defense even though his fifth-year option wasn’t picked up.
Walker, a first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has been the Packers’ most consistent defender. He’s led the team in tackles each of his first three seasons and has over 100 total tackles every year, including 102 in 2024.
Despite that production, the Packers didn’t pick up his rookie deal via the fifth-year option like they did with fellow 2022 draftee Devonte Wyatt earlier this offseason.
But don’t worry — general manager Brian Gutekunst said earlier this summer the team still sees a long-term future with Walker in Green Bay.
“We collectively have high expectations for him,” head coach Matt LaFleur said recently.
A Focused Recovery, Not a Setback
Walker didn’t participate in on-field activities during mandatory minicamp, but LaFleur said there were no new injuries or setbacks in his rehab process.
Instead, Walker worked with the rehab group due to lingering effects from last season when he missed four games — one due to a concussion and three from an ankle injury. He also missed time in 2023 with a knee issue.
But LaFleur is optimistic about Walker entering Year 4 and his second under defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.
“He’s mentally much further along,” LaFleur said. “Having a foundation of playing in this league now a few years, and he’s played some really good football.”
The challenge now? Consistency.
Can Walker stay healthy and play at a high level every week?
That’s the next step — and the Packers are betting he can do it.
Other Minicamp Notes: Absences and Anticipation
Walker wasn’t the only player missing time during minicamp.
Here’s the list:
- Jayden Reed
- Nate Hobbs
- Christian Watson
- Elgton Jenkins
- Aaron Banks
- Zayne Anderson
- Kalen King
- John Williams* Messiah Swinson
- Micah Robinson
- Julian Hicks
- Kamal Hadden
- Omar Brown
- Collin Oliver
LaFleur said he’s hopeful they’ll be ready for training camp, “sometime during camp.”
Big surprise: Bo Melton is taking reps at corner. Even his brother, an NFL corner, is impressed with his versatility.
Mark Murphy’s Emotional Sendoff
Minicamp wrapped up with a great moment as longtime Packers President Mark Murphy addressed the team for the last time before he retires.
After kicker Brandon McManus booted a 58 yard field goal, practice ended early, and LaFleur gathered the team for a final huddle.
Murphy will officially step down on July 25 and be replaced by Ed Policy. He got a signed helmet from the team.
LaFleur praised Murphy’s leadership and impact on and off the field:
“He’s a better man than leader. Appreciate him for the opportunity to be part of this great organization. It’s changed my life and my family’s life.”
The sendoff ended with a full team chant: “1, 2, 3 — Super Bowl!”
Looking Ahead: Training Camp and Beyond
Minicamp is done, now it’s on to training camp, which starts July 23.
For Quay Walker, this next phase is huge. The Packers didn’t pick up his 5th year option, but they’re invested in what he brings to the table — on the field and in the locker room.
He needs to stay healthy and elevate his game to determine if the Packers lock him up long term or let him walk in free agency.
Either way, the message from the coaches and front office is clear:
They believe in Quay Walker — and they’re all in on him.