Jahdae Walker: NFL Draft Journey, Football Career, 40-Yard Time, Age, Stats & More

American football is full of unexpected stories — but few are as compelling as Jahdae Walker’s journey from Division II college football to the NFL. A versatile wide receiver with size, athleticism, and drive, Walker has captivated scouts and fans alike with a breakout pro day and a tenacious climb onto an NFL roster. In this deep dive, we explore his background, 40-yard dash performance, draft experience, career stats, and what the future may hold.

Early Life and High School

Jahdae Walker was born on July 5, 2002, in Cleveland, Ohio. Growing up in a football-rich environment, he developed his skills at Shaker Heights High School. There, he starred on both sides of the ball, showcasing not just receiving ability but also physicality and versatility. As a senior, Walker put up impressive two-way numbers — catching passes while contributing on defense with tackles and turnovers — earning All-District honors and other local accolades. 

His size and athletic presence made him a sought-after recruit, but Walker ultimately chose to begin his college career at Grand Valley State University — a Division II program that offered immediate playing time and opportunities to refine his craft. 

College Career: From Grand Valley State to Texas A&M

Grand Valley State Lakers (2021–2022)

Walker’s college journey began at Grand Valley State, where he saw the field early and made big plays. In two seasons with the Lakers, he showed an ability to stretch the field and make contested catches.

Although exact breakouts from these seasons vary across reporting sources, his performance was strong enough to earn attention from larger programs and spark transfer interest. 

Texas A&M Aggies (2023–2024)

Deciding to challenge himself against Power Five competition, Walker transferred to Texas A&M. Over two seasons with the Aggies (2023 & 2024), he played in all 26 games, amassing 64 receptions for 935 yards and four touchdowns — solid production in a top college conference. 

At Texas A&M, Walker’s role was not always as the No. 1 option, but he became known as a reliable possession receiver and a threat on vertical routes thanks to his size (6-foot-3, 206 lbs). His ability to work the intermediate game and make defenders miss helped his stock rising in draft circles. 

He also earned recognition from team honors, such as being named the Aggie Heart Award winner in his senior year — an award given to a team’s most outstanding senior player. 

40-Yard Dash and Pro Day Performance: Athletic Traits That Turned Heads

One of the most significant boosts to Walker’s draft profile came from his Pro Day performance, where athletes can show off measurable athleticism in front of scouts.

Although at the time he was not invited to the NFL Combine, Walker made the most of his Pro Day:

• 40-yard dash: ~4.43 seconds — impressive for a prospect his size.

• 10-yard split: ~1.48 seconds — elite burst that would have ranked at the top of the combine leaderboard.

• Three-cone drill: ~6.7 seconds — shows his agility and route-running potential.

These numbers caught the attention of scouts because they paired Walker’s prototypical frame with real explosiveness — a combo that can translate well in the modern NFL.

Despite these moments of athleticism, Walker ultimately went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft — one of the biggest surprises for many draft analysts. 

NFL Draft 2025: The Road Less Traveled

When Walker’s name wasn’t called during the NFL Draft, it was a moment of disappointment for many who had tracked his progress. But the NFL is full of second chances.

Out of the draft, Walker quickly signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent, beginning his professional journey on his terms. 

Many scouts saw his late rise as a story of potential — the kind that only needs the right situation to blossom.

Chicago Bears: Preseason and Regular Season Breakthrough

Walker entered Chicago’s 2025 offseason roster as a player with something to prove. And he made the most of his opportunities.

Preseason

During the 2025 preseason, Walker caught the eyes of coaches and fans:

• He logged multiple receptions across preseason games, showing reliable hands and big-play potential. 

• In one key preseason matchup, he hauled in a game-winning touchdown — an explosive play signaling his clutch potential. 

These moments helped his case tremendously and built momentum toward making the team’s regular 53-man roster.

Making the Roster

In August 2025, Walker officially made the Chicago Bears’ 53-man roster — a major achievement for an undrafted rookie. His combination of preseason production, work ethic, and special teams willingness played into this decision. 

NFL Stats: Early Career Highlights

Walker’s 2025 NFL season began with flashes of real potential:

• Through his early regular season appearances, Walker recorded receptions, yardage, and his first NFL touchdown. 

• Though a limited sample, his averages show efficiency, with over 10 yards per catch on limited targets — strong for a rookie still finding his place. 

These early stats are promising for a player of his background and speak to the role he might carve out over time.

Playing Style: What Sets Walker Apart

Walker’s game is built on a few core traits:

Size and Length

At 6-foot-3 and ~206 pounds, Walker has the size of a prototypical NFL receiver — able to win at the catch point and shield defenders after the catch. 

Speed and Burst

His Pro Day speed metrics are among the strengths that keep him relevant at the next level, particularly in a league that values separation and quick acceleration. 

Versatility

Walker’s ability to contribute in different roles — from intermediate routes to contested catches and special teams — makes him an asset on a roster that values multipurpose players.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Jahdae Walker?

As the 2025 season unfolds, Walker’s role with the Bears could grow if he continues to make plays consistently. His path — from Division II ball to a Power Five program and onto an NFL roster — is a reminder that persistence pays off.

If Walker keeps progressing, he could become a reliable third-down target or slot weapon, expanding his role and influence.

FAQ: Jahdae Walker

Q: How old is Jahdae Walker?
A: He was born on July 5, 2002, making him 23 years old in the 2025 NFL season. 

Q: Did Jahdae Walker get drafted?
A: No, Walker went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft but signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent. 

Q: What is Jahdae Walker’s 40-yard dash time?
A: At his Pro Day, he posted around 4.43 seconds in the 40-yard dash, a strong number for his size.

Q: Where did Walker play college football?
A: He started at Grand Valley State then transferred to Texas A&M, where he became a key part of the receiving corps. 

Q: What are Walker’s career stats?
A: In college, Walker compiled 64 catches for 935 yards and four touchdowns. In the NFL, his early career includes receptions and his first NFL touchdown.