Quay Walker’s Future: Will the Packers Trade Their Former First-Round Pick?

A Promising Talent Yet to Shine

The Green Bay Packers are at a crossroads with linebacker Quay Walker. Once seen as a cornerstone for their defense, Walker has yet to reach his full potential. While his athleticism and tackling ability have flashed at times, inconsistencies in coverage and decision-making have kept him from becoming an indispensable player.

As the Packers prepare to reshape their roster for a deeper playoff push, Walker’s future remains uncertain. With second-round rookie Edgerrin Cooper and veteran Eric Wilson stepping up in his absence, Green Bay may explore trading Walker before his value diminishes.

The Struggles That Made Him Expendable

Walker entered the NFL as a high-upside linebacker with elite physical traits. However, his struggles in pass coverage have been a glaring issue. In 2024, he allowed receptions on nearly 79% of his targets and gave up an average of 9.1 yards per catch—numbers that put him among the league’s weakest coverage linebackers.

Additionally, injuries have slowed his progress, giving others an opportunity to shine in his absence. The emergence of Edgerrin Cooper has particularly raised questions about Walker’s long-term fit in Green Bay. If the Packers decline his fifth-year option, trading him could be a logical move to recoup draft capital.

Top Trade Destinations for Walker in 2025

3. Arizona Cardinals – A Desperate Need for Linebacker Help

The Arizona Cardinals are in dire need of reinforcements at linebacker. Their 2024 defensive struggles were largely due to a lack of reliable off-ball linebackers, and things could get worse in 2025. With key contributors like Kyzir White, Baron Browning, and Krys Barnes all set to hit free agency, Arizona is left with a depleted depth chart.

Walker, despite his inconsistencies, brings experience and playmaking ability to a Cardinals defense that lacks both. With over 100 tackles in each of his first three seasons, he has proven he can be productive in the right system. If Arizona can acquire him at a reasonable price, he could provide an immediate impact.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Preparing for the Future

The Buccaneers’ defense has been the backbone of their success, but change is on the horizon. Veteran linebacker Lavonte David is nearing the end of his career, and Devin White’s future with the team remains uncertain. Tampa Bay needs to start planning for the next generation of defensive leaders.

Head coach Todd Bowles thrives on aggressive, high-pressure defenses, and Walker’s athleticism fits that style. While he hasn’t lived up to first-round expectations in Green Bay, his ability to cover ground quickly and contribute against both the pass and run makes him an intriguing option for the Buccaneers.

Tampa Bay could prioritize an edge rusher this offseason, but adding an athletic off-ball linebacker like Walker would be equally valuable in maintaining defensive stability. If the Packers make him available, the Buccaneers should strongly consider making a move.

1. Cincinnati Bengals – A Perfect Fit for a Defensive Upgrade

The Bengals’ biggest priority this offseason is improving their defense, and linebacker is one of their weakest areas. Logan Wilson has been a solid anchor in the middle, but Cincinnati lacks depth and versatility at the position.

At just 24 years old, Walker represents a low-risk, high-reward option for the Bengals. His speed and physicality would instantly improve a defense that struggled against both the run and pass in 2024. Meanwhile, with the Packers appearing ready to move forward with Edgerrin Cooper, Walker has become increasingly expendable.

Given that linebackers rarely demand high trade prices, Cincinnati could acquire Walker for a reasonable cost and plug him into a system where his strengths are maximized. For a team looking to compete in the AFC, upgrading its linebacker corps is a must, and Walker could be the solution.

A Likely End to Walker’s Time in Green Bay?

As the 2025 offseason unfolds, Quay Walker’s future with the Packers remains uncertain. While he has showcased flashes of playmaking ability, his struggles in coverage and overall inconsistency make him a potential trade candidate.

With Edgerrin Cooper emerging as a long-term piece in Green Bay’s linebacker corps, trading Walker could be the best move for both sides. The Cardinals, Buccaneers, and Bengals all present strong cases as trade destinations, whether it’s Arizona desperately needing linebacker help, Tampa Bay preparing for life after Lavonte David, or Cincinnati looking to bolster its defense.

If the Packers decide to move on, Walker could find himself in a new system where he has a better chance to succeed—while Green Bay looks ahead to building a more complete defense.