The Indianapolis Colts have brought back Anthony Walker Jr. to bolster their linebacker depth.
A veteran linebacker who spent his first four seasons in Indianapolis, is returning to the franchise that drafted him in 2017. After a workout on Friday, the Colts are signing Walker to the practice squad as they look to add experience and stability to a position that’s seen plenty of movement this offseason.
Walker, 30, enters his ninth year in the NFL with a reputation as a reliable tackler and smart communicator. He played his best football in Indianapolis, posting 343 tackles, three interceptions, 11 pass breakups, and 3.5 sacks during his first stint with the team.
His leadership and consistency made him a trusted piece of the Colts’ defense before he departed in free agency following the 2020 season.
Walker’s NFL Journey Since Colts
After leaving the Colts, Walker spent three seasons with the Cleveland Browns from 2021-2023, where he became a steady presence in the middle of their defense. He followed that with a 2024 campaign with the Miami Dolphins, appearing in 14 games while recording 68 tackles, two pass breakups and an interception.
Most recently, Walker signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but he was released during training camp as he recovered from a non-football knee injury.
Despite the setbacks, Walker has compiled an impressive resume over his eight NFL seasons. His career totals include 581 tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 21 pass breakups, nine quarterback hits, and 5.5 sacks. Those numbers speak to a linebacker who brings both durability and production whenever he’s on the field.
Linebacker depth has become a priority for the Colts. Earlier this month, rookie Jaylon Carlies was placed on Injured Reserve, forcing general manager Chris Ballard to get aggressive in reshaping the room.
As Daniel Jones gets ready for his first start under center against the Dolphins on September 7, the Colts need a great practice week defensively.
Indianapolis claimed former Jaguars linebacker Chad Muma off waivers, signed ex-Bengals defender Joe Bachie, and has continued looking for ways to strengthen the back end of the roster.
The practice squad may not carry the same spotlight as the 53-man roster, but it serves as a critical insurance policy.
Injuries pile up quickly, and the Colts know the value of having experienced veterans ready to step in if needed. Walker not only brings proven production but also familiarity with the organization, coaching staff, and defensive culture.
What Walker Brings Back to Indianapolis
Walker’s return provides the Colts with a linebacker who has excelled as both a run-stopper and a coverage defender.
For the Colts, this isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s about shoring up a defense with someone they know can deliver. Walker thrived in Indianapolis the first time around, and even though he’s taken a long NFL journey since then, the team believes he can contribute again.
Whether he stays on the practice squad as a mentor or earns his way back to the 53-man roster, Walker represents the kind of reliable, team-first addition the Colts want in their locker room. And it’s a chance to come full circle with the franchise that gave him his start.
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