David Walker Bucs fans received unfortunate news this week as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers confirmed that the veteran running backs coach will miss the entire 2025 NFL season after suffering a torn ACL. The injury, which occurred during a routine practice drill at the team’s training camp facility, has created an immediate void in the Bucs’ offensive coaching unit just as preseason preparations ramp up.
Walker, a respected figure in the NFL coaching circuit, had been instrumental in developing Tampa Bay’s dynamic backfield over the past two seasons. His loss is expected to have a significant impact, especially as the team experiments with a new offensive structure under head coach Todd Bowles and offensive coordinator Liam Coen.
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Details Surrounding the Injury
According to team insiders, the injury took place on July 26 during a non-contact portion of practice. Walker reportedly slipped while demonstrating a footwork technique and immediately signaled for help. Medical assessments later confirmed a complete ACL tear in his left knee, requiring surgery and months of rehabilitation.
- Injury Date: July 26, 2025
- Type of Injury: ACL Tear (Left Knee)
- Sidelined Duration: Full 2025 Season
- Surgery Schedule: Early August 2025
Who Will Replace David Walker?
As of now, the Buccaneers have not officially named an interim running backs coach. However, reports suggest that assistant offensive coach Ronald McGill could temporarily oversee running back duties while the team evaluates external candidates. McGill has previous experience mentoring RBs during his tenure at the college level.
This abrupt change in staff could prove challenging as the Bucs aim to stabilize their run game, which struggled for consistency in the 2024 season. The team is currently testing a new RB rotation, featuring second-year talent Rachaad White and free agent pickup Tony Pollard.
Walker’s Impact on the Team
Before joining the Bucs in 2023, David Walker served as running backs coach for the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and Detroit Lions. He is well known for his hands-on coaching style and ability to connect with younger players. Under his guidance:
- Tampa Bay’s rushing attack improved from 32nd in 2023 to 19th in 2024.
- Rachaad White became a reliable dual-threat back, finishing last season with over 1,100 all-purpose yards.
- Rookie RB Sean Tucker made strong progress in limited snaps, a credit to Walker’s mentorship.
Walker’s absence now leaves a developmental gap at a crucial stage of player growth and team rebuilding.
Locker Room Reactions and Team Outlook
Several players took to social media to express their support:
- Rachaad White: “Tough news about Coach Walker. Learned so much from him—praying for a fast recovery.”
- Tristan Wirfs: “Hate to see this happen to a guy who gives his all every single day. Heal up, Coach.”
The Bucs organization also released a brief statement saying, “David’s leadership and energy will be deeply missed on the field. We’re working closely with him and medical professionals to ensure a full and healthy recovery.”
Despite this setback, the team remains focused on preparing for their preseason opener against the New Orleans Saints on August 17. All eyes will be on how the RB unit adjusts to coaching changes and whether the offense can maintain continuity.
What This Means Going Forward
Losing a coach like David Walker doesn’t just affect drills or meetings—it alters chemistry. His bond with the players was strong, and that intangible will be hard to replace. Whether the Bucs promote from within or bring in outside help, the team must now manage not just physical training but emotional resilience as well.
The coaching staff is expected to make a formal announcement regarding his replacement by early next week. Until then, Tampa Bay is leaning on internal leadership and veteran presence to maintain momentum heading into preseason.
Injuries are part of the game, but losing a coach as experienced and respected as David Walker presents challenges that go beyond the field. Stay tuned as the Buccaneers adjust and continue their push toward a competitive 2025 season.
What are your thoughts on the Bucs’ chances this year without Coach Walker on the sideline? Drop a comment and join the conversation.