Linebacker Anthony Walker Visiting With Browns

The Cleveland Browns are looking to improve their defense this offseason.

They’ve already added safety John Johnson III and edge rusher Takk McKinley in free agency.

Cleveland also re-signed linebacker Malcolm Smith, so it has been a defensive based offseason.

The fun doesn’t stop there as linebacker Anthony Walker is reportedly visiting with the Browns on Thursday.

Colts free-agent LB Anthony Walker is visiting the Browns today, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 18, 2021

The former fifth-round pick is coming off three solid years with the Indianapolis Colts.

Walker could be a potential fit for the Browns with the team lacking depth at the linebacker spot.

Who Is Walker?

The former Northwestern star was given a chance in a limited role during his rookie season in Indy.

He played well enough to earn himself a full-time spot the following year.

Walker recorded 105 tackles, four pass defended, and one interception through 15 games in 2018.

He followed that up with a career-high 124 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two passes defended the next season.

As seen by his stats, Walker is an elite tackler, which is something the Browns lacked from the linebacker position last year.

Colts free-agent LB Anthony Walker is visiting the Browns today-Adam Schefter

Here’s some tape from 2020: pic.twitter.com/gaQp5XaPy8

— Tattoo Baker 🎥✨ (@QB1TATT00) March 18, 2021

The 2020 campaign was a somewhat down year for Walker, which might be part of the reason why the Colts decided to let him go.

Through 16 games, he recorded 92 tackles, five pass defended, and one interception with Indy.

Walker has only missed one game since the 2018 season, which is quite impressive.

There is a ton to like about Walker’s game, which is why the Browns are showing interest in him.

Should The Browns Sign Walker?

The fact he is an excellent tackler and solid in run defense is a good enough reason for the Browns to pursue Walker.

However, he is well below average when it comes to pass coverage.

To be honest, Walker is basically a liability on the field when it comes to stopping the pass.

Despite that, Cleveland should at least consider signing Walker, assuming the money is right.

He is a fairly young linebacker that stays healthy and has plenty of upside.

The Browns shouldn’t overpay for Walker, but he could be a useful option on this defense.

Maybe he wouldn’t play every down, but the Browns could find a role for him.

At the end of the day, it comes down to how much Walker wants in free agency.

There are plenty of linebackers available, so the Browns shouldn’t overpay for someone who is absolutely clueless when it comes to covering the pass.

Possibly, the Browns coaches can help with that, but we’ll see if the two sides can strike a deal.