Kentucky defensive tackle Deone Walker has been named a second-team preseason All-American by the Associated Press, as announced Monday. Walker, a 6-foot-6, 348-pound defensive lineman from Detroit, continues to receive widespread recognition heading into the 2024 season.
His accolades this preseason include:
- Preseason All-America, First Team (ESPN, Sporting News)
- Preseason All-America, Second Team (AP, Athlon, Phil Steele, USA Today, Walter Camp)
- Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List
- Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List
- Outland Trophy Watch List
- Lombardi Award Watch List
- Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List
- Preseason All-SEC, First Team (Athlon, Media, Phil Steele)
Walker is coming off a standout sophomore season in 2023, where he led the Wildcats in tackles for loss (12.5), quarterback sacks (7.5), and quarterback hurries (8), despite frequently facing double teams. He also contributed two pass breakups, including a crucial play in Kentucky’s win over Florida on September 30, where his deflection led to an interception that was returned to the UF 15-yard line, setting up a touchdown.
Walker, who was named one of seven permanent team captains last season, started all 13 games and has now made 24 consecutive starts, a streak dating back to his freshman season in 2022. He set or tied career highs in various categories, including nine tackles against South Carolina, 4.0 tackles for loss at Missouri, 1.0 sack at South Carolina, one pass breakup at Georgia, and two quarterback hurries against EKU.
In 2023, Walker earned first-team All-SEC honors from multiple selectors and was a third-team All-America choice by the College Football Network.