David Walker has been the biggest standout for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason.
Since returning from a season-ending injury he suffered last July, the second-year pass rusher has gone scorched earth, recording sacks in nine straight training camp practices.
Last week’s preseason opener against the New York Jets was his NFL debut, and while he generated some pressure, a pair of franchise legends noticed one major concern upon watching the film.
Jon Gruden and Rondé Barber call David Walker out for loafing during Tampa Bay Buccaneers preseason opener
Gruden is preparing to join Barber in the broadcast booth for Tampa Bay’s Week 2 preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs. As part of their preparation, the two Buccaneers legends have been grinding through film and getting familiar with the players and schemes to watch. They linked up on The Rondé Barber Show to discuss some of what they saw.
It felt like David Walker could do no wrong this offseason, until the tape exposed his first flaw.
“As good as his preseason has been, the tape didn’t look as good as I thought it was gonna look. He did have a pressure on an interception, but I wanna see it. Coach [Gruden] and I were watching film, and on the very first snap of the game… 51 goes up the field and starts jogging towards the ball,” Barber said.
Gruden agreed, declaring that Walker’s effort on the first play won’t fly with the Buccaneers. But in contrast, he noticed that rookie inside linebacker Josiah Trotter gave an all-out effort that should have Bucs fans excited.
“I know how these guys look at team pursuit on defense. It’s been a way of life here in Tampa Bay. You run to the ball, you strain to finish plays. When you watch Trotter on the very first play, you’re glad he’s a Tampa Bay Buccaneer. Don’t get me wrong, I love Walker, I love his upside but he’s gonna have to learn to finish plays with authority,” Gruden said.
It’s not exactly the first impression Walker was hoping to put on film after putting together such an impressive offseason. Loafing was a serious problem for the Buccaneers’ defense last season, and even 14-year veteran Lavonte David admitted he was called out by teammates for his effort at times.
Tampa Bay prioritized changing that culture this offseason. They brought in a mix of grizzled veteran leaders such as A’Shawn Robinson and Alex Anzalone along with hungry, high-motor rookies like Rueben Bain Jr. and Josiah Trotter. There’s a new attitude in Tampa Bay, and loafing isn’t going to fly this year. Players will be held accountable.
Gruden said he wouldn’t be shocked if Bowles put the tape of Walker’s rep in front of the entire team and used it to open the team meeting. Hopefully, this was simply a one-off for Walker. He’ll have to quickly adapt to the level of effort expected of him if he wants to play a significant role for this Bucs defense.
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