UNC WR Tez Walker reportedly among players to accept invite to Senior Bowl
Several players from football programs in the Triangle have accepted invitations to the Reese’s Senior Bowl, an annual showcase game for NFL Draft prospects, according to the event’s website.
North Carolina wide receiver Tez Walker is among those players. His acceptance could indicate his intention to declare for the NFL Draft.
Walker played in eight games for the Tar Heels after the NCAA approved a waiver for his immediate eligibility.
The junior from Charlotte finished the season with 41 receptions for 699 yards and seven touchdowns. His best game came against Miami, when he hauled in six passes for 132 yards and three TDs.
Walker’s brief time in Chapel Hill was filled with controversy due to the NCAA’s initial denial of his transfer waiver and subsequent reversal. He was ultimately allowed to play, after the season began, due to new evidence that was submitted.
The junior attended North Carolina Central and Kent State, prior to his time with the Heels. He did not play for NC Central after the school’s season was cancelled during the COVID pandemic, and left Kent State due to his grandmother’s health challenges and a coaching change. He was an All-MAC honoree in 2022 after recording nearly 1,000 yards.
He missed the first four games of the season but still earned a spot on Third Team All-ACC.
UNC linebacker Cedric Gray, Duke defensive lineman DeWayne Carter and N.C. State linebacker Payton Wilson have also accepted invitations, according the the site.
Gray finished with 121 total tackles, five sacks, a pair of forced fumbles and fumble recoveries, and one interception. He earned First Team All-ACC recognition.
Carter was an All-ACC First Team selection for his contributions, as well. The Blue Devils defensive tackle racked up 124 tackles, 25 tackles for loss for a loss of 121 yards and 12 sacks.
Wilson, an All-ACC first teamer, received the Butkus Award this week and was a finalist for the Nagurski Trophy. He is also a finalist for the Bednarik Award, which will be presented on Friday.
The Senior Bowl is scheduled for Feb. 3 at South Alabama in Mobile.
