The Seattle Seahawks are parting ways with a veteran quarterback just before the season kicks off. As they finalized their 53-man roster ahead of the Tuesday, August 27 deadline, the team decided to release the 29-year-old quarterback, according to ESPN’s Brady Henderson.
Walker was initially signed shortly before the minicamp in June, aiming to secure a spot as the Seahawks’ third quarterback. With Geno Smith firmly established as the starter and the team acquiring former Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell as a backup, Walker faced tough competition.
Despite playing in the preseason, where he completed 15 of 28 passes for 147 yards without any touchdowns or turnovers, Walker didn’t make a strong enough case to earn a roster spot. Even though he had an interception wiped out due to a roughing of the passer penalty in the preseason finale, it wasn’t enough to secure his place on the team.
Mookie Alexander from SB Nation’s Field Gulls suggests that it’s uncertain whether the Seahawks will bring Walker back onto the practice squad. Although Walker has experience as an NFL starter, the Seahawks appear to be moving in a different direction, focusing on their top two quarterbacks.
Walker’s NFL journey has seen him move between teams over the past seven years. After entering the league as an undrafted free agent with the Indianapolis Colts in 2017, he spent time on their practice squad before making a name for himself in the XFL in 2020. His performance there earned him a shot with the Carolina Panthers, where he appeared in several games over three seasons. Last season, he had brief stints with both the Chicago Bears and Cleveland Browns, stepping in due to injuries but struggling to make a lasting impact.
With the Seahawks deciding not to retain him, Walker’s future in the NFL is uncertain, though his experience may still make him a candidate for another team looking for a seasoned quarterback. Over his career, Walker has totaled six touchdowns, 16 interceptions, 2,135 passing yards, and a 60.0 passer rating, with a 5-4 record as a starter.