NFL veteran linebacker Anthony Walker has signed a new contract with the Cleveland Browns. Walker, a former fifth-round pick, spent the 2022 season with the Cleveland Browns but has also played for the Indianapolis Colts.
In more LB news… the #Browns are bringing back LB Anthony Walker on a 1-year deal, source said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 22, 2023
Anthony Walker, Cleveland Browns, Agree to Contract
The 2022 season was a lost one for Anthony Walker. After signing a one-year deal and essentially betting on himself, Walker’s season ended after just three games. The linebacker suffered a torn quad, sidelining him for the duration of the seasons. In total, he recorded just 13 tackles and four tackles-for-loss during his time on the field.
Anthony Walker originally entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Selected by the Indianapolis Colts, the Northwestern product began his career primarily on special teams, although his role on the defense did grow as the season progressed. During his rookie season, Walker recorded 22 tackles and one tackle-for-loss throughout 10 games of action.
After his relatively pedestrian rookie year, Walker broke out in a big way. Earning a starting spot under first-year head coach Frank Reich, Walker ended the 2018 season with one interception, one sack, 105 tackles, 10 tackles-for-loss, and two quarterback hits.
He proved his 2018 wasn’t a fluke by putting together an equally impressive 2019. Starting in all 16 games, the Northwestern product finished the year with one interception, one forced fumble, 2.5 sacks, 124 tackles, six tackles-for-loss, and three quarterback hits.
Anthony Walker entered his contract year in 2020, and proved he was worthy of a raise. Starting in all 16 games for the second consecutive year, the linebacker recorded one interception, five passes defended, one fumble recovery, 92 tackles, two tackles-for-loss, and one quarterback hit.
Walker hit free agency for the first time in 2021. After agreeing to terms with the Cleveland Browns, Walker immediately filled the hold in the middle of Cleveland’s defense. Appearing in 13 games, the linebacker finished his first season in Ohio with one sack, 113 tackles, two tackles-for-loss, and one quarterback hit.
Main Photo: Lon Horwedel – USA Today Sports
