Former Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker is now officially an Atlanta Falcon, and his former coach, Kirby Smart, took a moment to share his congratulations. Since 2020, Georgia has led all college programs with 49 NFL Draft picks. That trend continued during the 2025 NFL Draft, where Mykel Williams went 11th to the 49ers, followed by Walker at No. 15 to Atlanta — the Falcons’ first Georgia selection in the top two rounds since 1966.
Walker, a former five-star recruit, emerged as a major piece of Georgia’s elite defense. After developing behind NFL-bound teammates early in his college career, he broke out with five sacks as a sophomore and followed up with an All-American junior year. He won the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker, finishing with 60 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, and two pass breakups.
More than just a playmaker, Walker was also a respected leader and voice on Georgia’s defense. Coach Smart praised both his talent and character, posting a heartfelt message on X:
“Congrats Jalon, your dream has finally come true, and we are so grateful to have been a part of it!! Your parents have done an unbelievable job raising you, and I know they are so proud. The Falcons got a great player and an even better person. You’re a Dawg for life. GO DAWGS!!”
Walker is now the third Butkus Award winner and third first-round linebacker Georgia has produced under Smart. With the Falcons finishing 31st in sacks last season, Walker is expected to step up immediately. His journey begins May 9 at rookie camp.
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