Former Upson-Lee, UGA star is now the favorite to go No. 1 in Thursday’s NFL Draft

A former Upson-Lee standout is now the betting favorite to be taken No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft on Thursday night. Georgia defensive lineman Travon Walker won’t have to wait long to hear his name called during the annual event set to kick off on April 28 at 8 p.m. as he is likely a lock for a top 5 pick and has risen above Michigan defensive end in the race for the top pick.

Walker’s stock has been on the rise since the Bulldogs defeated Alabama in the national championship. The former Knight is a speedy edge rusher who shot up draft boards after a strong showing at the NFL Combine, where he ran a 4.51 40-yard dash.

The 6-foot-5, 272 pounds lineman was a key cog in Georgia’s record-setting defense, helping lead the Bulldogs to their first national title in 41 years.

In addition to Walker, the Bulldogs could have more than five players from its defense drafted in the first round and more than 10 players total on both sides of the ball.

While Walker may be the first player off the board, Middle Georgians will have a reason to watch well into the weekend as Mercer may soon have its first-ever draftee.

Jason Poe, an offensive lineman for the Bears, is receiving a lot of attention ahead of the draft: ESPN’s Todd McShay called Poe one of his favorite late-round athletes in the entire class.

Talent evaluators view Poe as a potential offensive lineman at the next level or as a fullback because of his blocking ability combined with impressive speed for his position. McShay said Poe may be the best full-blocker in the draft.

This story was originally published April 27, 2022 at 5:00 AM.