Big Board: Deone Walker, Maxwell Hairston remain top-50 prospects

Kentucky defensive tackle Deone Walker was viewed as a first-round prospect and potential top-10 pick entering the 2024 season. Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston also had a chance to push for first-round status in the 2025 NFL Draft.

A first-round pick might not be in the cards, but the two Kentucky defenders are still considered top prospects in this draft class.

On Tuesday, The Athletic’s Dane Brugler updated his top-50 big board with Walker and Hairston both making appearances.

Basketball was his first love, and it shows with the light feet (Deone) Walker has for a big man. But Walker needs to play with improved pad level, technique and process to maximize his physical gifts.

Deone Walker (No. 34 overall)

“(Maxwell) Hairston has played in only four games this season due to a shoulder injury — and Kentucky has missed his presence in a big way. Despite the lack of tape, Hairston still belongs in the top-50 discussion because of his cover skills.”

Maxwell Hairston (No. 36 overall)

Deone Walker and Maxwell Hairston each saw some slippage from Brugler’s big board in August where Walker fell 17 spots and Hairston fell four spots. Despite the falls, both players appear to have a second round floor and there is still time to enter the first round conversation.

Kentucky will likely produce a pair of top-50 picks off this current defense. Despite the down season, draft weekend will not be boring for the Wildcats as Walker, Hairston, and a handful of other players should hear their names called during the seven-round marathon that lasts three days in April.

Top 50 prospects on Kentucky’s 2024 schedule

4.) Malaki Starks (S, Georgia)

7.) Jalon Walker (EDGE, Georgia)

8.) Mykel Williams (EDGE, Georgia)

12.) James Pearce Jr. (EDGE, Tennessee)

18.) Kelvin Banks Jr. (T, Texas)

27.) Cameron Williams (T, Texas)

20.) Walter Nolen (DT, Ole Miss)

41.) Nick Emmanwork (S, South Carolina)

45.) Isaiah Bond (WR, Texas)

48.) Kyle Kennard (EDGE, South Carolina)

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