Quay Walker Free Agency Outlook: Packers Decline Fifth-Year Option as Linebacker’s Future Comes Into Focus

The Green Bay Packers defense is set to undergo significant changes heading into the 2026 NFL season, and those changes extend far beyond the coaching staff. While much attention has been paid to the departure of defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, who left Green Bay to become the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, and the hiring of Jonathan Gannon as his replacement, personnel turnover could be just as impactful.

One of the most notable potential departures is linebacker Quay Walker, a former first-round pick whose time in Green Bay may be nearing its end. The Packers have officially declined Walker’s fifth-year team option, a decision that places the 25-year-old linebacker on track to hit free agency in March 2026.

Packers Decline Quay Walker’s Fifth-Year Option

Walker, selected No. 22 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, was once viewed as a cornerstone piece of Green Bay’s defensive rebuild. However, the organization ultimately decided against exercising his fifth-year option, which would have cost the team $14.75 million for the 2026 season.

Instead, the Packers have chosen to let Walker play out the fourth and final year of his rookie contract, allowing him to test the open market rather than committing long-term money at a premium price.

This move signals a shift in Green Bay’s evaluation of Walker’s value relative to his production, particularly as the franchise balances cap flexibility with a new defensive vision under Gannon.

CBS Sports Predicts Washington as a Potential Landing Spot

According to CBS Sports analyst Zachary Pereles, the Packers’ decision could ultimately result in Walker finding a new home with the Washington Commanders.

Pereles wrote on Tuesday, January 27, that Washington stands out as a logical fit given its pressing need for defensive reinforcements.

“Washington desperately needs to add youth, speed and athleticism across the defense especially, and the 25-year-old Walker fits the bill for what should be an overhauled unit,” Pereles explained.

The Commanders are expected to make significant changes on defense, and Walker’s age, athletic profile, and first-round pedigree could make him an appealing reclamation project.

Other Teams Monitoring Quay Walker’s Free Agency

While Washington may be the most frequently mentioned destination, Pereles also identified the Los Angeles Rams and Tennessee Titans as potential suitors.

• Los Angeles Rams: Known for taking calculated risks on talented players who haven’t fully met expectations, the Rams could view Walker as a high-upside addition at the right price.

• Tennessee Titans: With a defense in transition, Tennessee may prioritize younger, athletic linebackers capable of playing multiple roles.

Importantly, a return to Green Bay has not been ruled out entirely. If Walker’s market value comes in lower than expected, the Packers could revisit negotiations on a more team-friendly deal.

Quay Walker’s 2025 Season: Production vs. Impact

From a raw statistical standpoint, Walker’s 2025 season was not without highlights. He started 14 games and posted a career-high 128 tackles, showing durability and availability for most of the year.

His full stat line included:

• 128 total tackles

• 8 tackles for loss

• 7 quarterback hits

• 5 pass breakups

• 2.5 sacks

On paper, those numbers suggest a productive linebacker. However, NFL teams increasingly rely on advanced metrics and film evaluation rather than box score totals alone—and those deeper evaluations painted a less flattering picture.

Advanced Metrics Paint a Bleak Picture

Despite the volume of tackles, Walker struggled in several critical areas of linebacker play during the 2025 season.

According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Walker ranked 74th out of 88 qualifying linebackers based on its advanced grading system. That placed him firmly among the bottom tier at his position league-wide.

PFF noted that Walker graded well below average in both:

• Coverage

• Run defense

These deficiencies are particularly concerning in today’s NFL, where linebackers are expected to defend tight ends, cover running backs in space, and diagnose plays quickly against complex offensive schemes.

Injury History Adds to the Risk Profile

While Walker is not considered injury-prone in the traditional sense, his availability has been inconsistent. Over the last three seasons, he has missed 10 total games, including time lost in 2025.

As Walker approaches the latter half of his 20s, teams will factor durability into their evaluations—especially when considering a multi-year commitment.

For Green Bay, this combination of average on-field impact and moderate injury concerns likely reinforced the decision to pass on a $14.75 million option year.

Market Value and Contract Projection

Given his performance and league perception, Walker is unlikely to command a blockbuster contract in free agency.

According to Spotrac, Walker’s projected market value sits around a three-year deal worth approximately $29 million total, a far cry from top-tier linebacker money. That valuation reflects his athletic traits and experience while acknowledging his inconsistency and limitations.

From a team-building perspective, Walker profiles as a mid-level starter or high-end rotational linebacker, rather than a defensive centerpiece.

Packers’ Decision Looks Increasingly Justified

With hindsight, the Packers’ choice to decline Walker’s fifth-year option appears financially sound. Paying nearly $15 million for a linebacker who graded among the league’s worst at his position would have severely limited Green Bay’s flexibility—especially during a defensive transition.

Under Jonathan Gannon, the Packers are expected to prioritize versatility, coverage ability, and discipline at linebacker. Walker’s struggles in those areas may have ultimately sealed his fate.

Final Outlook: A Fresh Start Likely for Quay Walker

As free agency approaches, all signs point toward Quay Walker beginning the next chapter of his career outside Green Bay. While a return to the Packers isn’t impossible, the odds favor a new team willing to bet on his physical tools and youth at a more reasonable price.

The Washington Commanders currently stand out as the most logical landing spot, but the Rams, Titans, and other linebacker-needy teams could enter the mix as the market develops.

For Walker, free agency represents an opportunity to reset his trajectory and prove that he can translate athletic potential into consistent, high-level performance. For the Packers, it marks another step in reshaping a defense that will look markedly different in 2026.

Either way, Quay Walker’s future will be one of the more intriguing storylines to monitor as the NFL offseason unfolds.