23 Nov 2022 Walker named finalist for Buchanan Award

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas defensive end David Walker was named a finalist for the 2022 Buck Buchanan Award on Tuesday.

The Buck Buchanan is awarded by Stats Perform and goes to the national defensive player of the year in college football’s Division I FCS subdivision. The award is in its 28th season and is named for legendary defensive lineman Junious “Buck” Buchanan, who starred at Grambling State as part of his Hall of Fame career.

Walker, a 6-foot-3, 265-pounder from Stuttgart, transferred to UCA from Southern Arkansas last winter. He led the ASUN and FCS in tackles for loss (22, minus 107 yards) and was first in the ASUN and second in FCS in sacks (12, minus 83 yards). Walker finished his first season at UCA with 66 total tackles, one pass breakup and one forced fumble.

A national media panel will select the Buchanan Award winner, with voting based on the regular season. The recipient will be announced at the FCS National Awards banquet on Jan. 7 in Frisco, Texas, on the eve of the national championship game.