Ronde Barber is one of the greatest Tampa Bay Buccaneers of all time. The longest-tenured player in franchise history has always been complimentary of the current roster players.
The latest player he can't stop talking about?
Fifth-round rookie David Walker.
Barber spoke on his weekly show on WFLA and ranked Walker as a potentially most impactful rookie on the team, even though he only played at Central Arkansas.
"I didn't know anything about him until we picked him, and then you go and look at what he did... when you put the film on, you're like, 'Holy cow, this dude has the mentality.'" Barber said. "It's kinda like this underdog mentality that makes people respect him."
Tampa Bay drafted a load of guys before they got to Walker. Most of those players could see action for Tampa Bay this season, too.
The difference with Walker is that he fills a central position of need. Tampa Bay's pass rush is a significant question for the organization this year. While Yaya Diaby and Haason Reddick are the intended starters, Tampa Bay wants to use their edge rushers in waves throughout the season.
That's why Walker's presence should help tremendously.
There is always an adjustment period for FCS players, so it's safe to assume Walker may take some time to adjust there.
Despite this, he's a young edge rusher with excellent moves to get to the quarterback, which Tampa Bay desperately needs. That is why Barber believes Walker could be the organization's most impactful rookie.