LB Quay Walker could be underrated free agent signing for Saints

By Ross Jackson

Linebacker isn’t the first position that comes to mind when thinking of the New Orleans Saints’ 2026 free agency wishlist. However, it’s a position, thanks to one player expected to become available in March, that the team could choose to invest in at the right price.

Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker was a common name brought up as the trade deadline approached last year. He is now set to become a free agent as the new league year begins in March. One that would make a lot of sense for the Saints to consider, even if not at a position of dire need.

Having rangey, athletic linebackers in the middle of the defense is a must for defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s scheme. The two inside ‘backers provide run support, pass rush supplementation and coverage in the pass game.

Walker excels in all three. The 6-foot-4, 241-pound linebacker has piled up an impressive 469 combined tackles over the last four years with 29 being for a loss. He’s also added nine sacks, 19 hits on opposing quarterbacks, an interception and 17 passes defensed in that time.

As his rookie deal expires this offseason, he will be the top linebacker on the market.

There’s presently uncertainty about the future of linebacker Demario Davis in the Big Easy, though many are hopeful for his return. Even in the circumstance of that return, Walker could still be seen as a worthwhile investment at the position.

The Saints will eventually have to cross into their era without Davis. Having Walker and rookie linebacker Danny Stutsman waiting in the wings could provide an excellent tandem around which to build a future. 

2021 second-rounder Pete Werner still has more than $6 million of guaranteed money in 2026 with his contract that stretches through the 2027 season, but faces a level of uncertainty relative to proving himself going into his second year with the Saints’ new coaching staff. Should New Orleans feel it needs a change of pace at the position, Walker could be an interesting piece next to Werner as well. Again, building for the future in 2027.

The linebacker room might not be the one biggest need for New Orleans, but defensive pieces that can impact the game are always a desired addition. Few on the market will be more impactful than Walker.