Darius Walker is the son of Jimmy Walker who was a defensive lineman for the University of Arkansas in the late 70’s under Lou Holtz. Darius attended Buford High School in Buford, Georgia where he played running back on the football team. As a sophomore, Darius rushed for 1,003 yards and 15 touchdowns helping the team to a 15-0 record and a state championship. As a junior, Darius rushed for 1,985 yards and 26 touchdowns, earning all-state honors and leading Buford to another state championship. As a senior, Darius rushed for 2,406 yards. His 46 rushing touchdowns broke the state record previously held by Hershel Walker (42). Buford won it’s third consecutive state championship after going 15-0. Darius was named first team all-state and was Georgia’s Gatorade Player of the Year. Darius finished his career with 5,675 yards and 91 rushing touchdowns. He was recruited by Arkansas, Nebraska, Ohio State, and Stanford; however, he opted to accept a scholarship to the University of Notre Dame instead. He became an immediate contributor for the Irish, setting the school’s freshman rushing record with 786 yards and 7 touchdowns on 185 attempts. He also caught 10 passes for 74 yards. As a sophomore, Darius became the first running back in Notre Dame history to rush for 100 or more yards in the first four games of a season. He finished the year with 1,196 yards and 9 touchdowns on 253 attempts. He also caught 43 passes for 351 yards and 2 touchdowns. As a junior, Darius set career highs in attempts (255), rushing yards (1,267), receptions (56), and receiving yards (391). He had 8 total touchdowns on the season (7 rushing, 1 receiving). Darius still has another year of eligibility left; however, he has opted to skip his senior season to enter the 2007 NFL draft.

Darius Walker has been starting at running back for Notre Dame since his true freshman season. His is a durable player who hasn’t missed much time due to injury. He is a versatile back who does a number of things well. He is a good between the tackles runner who hits the hole quickly and has the strength to run through arm tackles. He has the vision to see cutback lanes and once he hits the open field, Walker can be an elusive runner with the ability to make defenders miss. He is a great receiver out of the backfield who runs precise routes and has soft hands. He is also solid in pass protection. Though he has been extremely productive up to this point, Walker doesn’t have the physical tools to project as an every down back at the next level. He doesn’t have the size to be a power runner and he lacks elite speed. He may have trouble turning the corner at the next level and he won’t break many long runs. Darius Walker is a versatile player who should make a good 3rd down back in the NFL. He projects as a mid-round pick in the 2007 NFL draft.