The Carolina Panthers have made a significant move in free agency by signing former Penn State standout Rasheed Walker. Walker, an offensive lineman, inked a one-year deal with the Panthers that could be worth up to $10 million, according to NFL insiders.
Walker, who is entering his fifth NFL season in 2026, started his professional journey with the Green Bay Packers. Drafted in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft as the 249th overall pick, he proved his mettle by evolving into a starting left tackle. After a single game appearance as a rookie, Walker became a staple on the Packers’ offensive line, playing in 52 games and starting 48 of them.
Carolina's acquisition of Walker is a strategic response to their injury-plagued offensive line, particularly the loss of left tackle Ikem Ekwonu, who suffered a ruptured patellar tendon during the AFC Wild Card Round. Walker's arrival not only adds depth but also offers a solid option to step into the starting role if Ekwonu isn't ready for the 2026 season.
Walker was a hot commodity in free agency, ranked 19th overall by NFL.com's Gregg Rosenthal. Despite being a seventh-round pick, Walker consistently held his ground against competitors for his position in Green Bay. His performance on the field speaks volumes, with a 93.8 percent pass block win rate, placing him 11th among NFL tackles in 2025.
The Packers, meanwhile, face a challenging offseason, having lost key players like defensive lineman Rashan Gary, wide receiver Romeo Doubs, and linebacker Quay Walker to free agency.
Walker's journey began at Penn State, where he played 35 games over four seasons, earning a starting role after his redshirt year in 2018. His development from college to the pros underscores his resilience and skill, making him a valuable asset for the Panthers as they look to fortify their offensive line.