University of Northwestern linebacker and Monsignor Edward Pace graduate Anthony Walker was named top linebacker in the nation for the 2016 season by Sports on Earth.
The one-time Big Ten Player of the Week had stellar seasons for the Wildcats in 2014 and 2015, recording a total 171 tackles (92 solo), six sacks, three interceptions, four forced fumbles and one touchdown.
Behind a penurious defense, the Wildcats finished the 2015 season 10-3, (6-2 in Big Ten play) tied for second place in the West Division. Tennessee defeated Northwestern in the Outback Bowl.
A third-team All-American last year, Walker, 6-1 and 225 pounds, has also been projected as a first-round pick in the NFL draft in 2017, according to Sports on Earth.
Sports on Earth is a popular highbrow USA Today and MLB Advanced Media-back sports blog created by parent company Gannett.