By: Courtesy of FCS Analyst

Article by: CRAIG HALEY and graphic by MATT SISNEROS

FRISCO, Texas -- Few would be surprised to learn Central Arkansas defensive end David Walker grew up as a big fan of Hall of Famer Ray Lewis.
 
It reflects in Walker’s relentless motor and dominating style on the defensive side of the ball.
 
Walker saved his best for last as a senior, capping his UCA career as the 2024 recipient of the Buck Buchanan Award – presented to the national defensive player of the year in Division I FCS college football – at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet Saturday night in Frisco, Texas.
 
Walker was one of 35 finalists in the 30th anniversary season of the Buchanan Award, comfortably winning a national vote (he gained 23 of 56 first-place votes) over Mercer cornerback TJ Moore and Richmond defensive end Jeremiah Grant.
 
The 6-foot-2, 260-pound senior from Stuttgart, Arkansas, racked up 68 tackles (45 solos), 23 tackles for loss (121 yards) and 10.5 sacks in 12 games, while also setting career highs with four forced fumbles, eight quarterback hurries and six pass breakups. He had 60 TFLs and 31 sacks over his three seasons at Central Arkansas following a transfer from Division II Southern Arkansas.
 
Walker’s 2024 campaign marked his third straight as a finalist for the Buck Buchanan Award, beginning with a third-place finish in 2022, and as a first-team selection on the Stats Perform FCS All-America Team. He’s also been his conference’s defensive player of the year in three consecutive seasons (United Athletic Conference the last two).
 
Moore and Grant were first-team All-Americans as well. Moore ranks second in the FCS in interceptions (seven) and is tied for the third-most passes defended (20). Grant leads the FCS in sacks (13.5)
 
The Buck Buchanan Award is named for legendary defensive lineman Junious “Buck” Buchanan, who starred at Grambling State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Past recipients include Dexter Coakley, Rashean Mathis, Jared Allen and Arthur Moats.