During his senior year at Cherry Creek High School, Arden Walker received scholarship offers from Colorado and many others. However, Walker decided to go the out-of-state route and attend the University of Missouri instead.
Ranked as a three-star recruit, he was labeled as the No. 6 overall prospect out of the state of Colorado in 2021 according to 247 Sports.
As a result, Walker started in just two of the 16 games he appeared in during his two seasons at Missouri.
Walker then transferred to Colorado after Deion Sanders took over the program.
After all, he is a legacy Buff.
His father Art played for Colorado from 1986-89.
"“Black and gold runs in my veins, and obviously, the impact that my father had on me.” Walker said. “He’s been a coach forever for me as well, so I think some of these leadership roles and the aspects he’s preached to me my whole life, I feel like now it’s really on display and being able to help my guys. Of course, I’m back in my home state and playing for Colorado. It’s like, man, you really can’t beat it.” – Jack Carlough – SI.com"
Over the past three seasons with Colorado, Walker recorded 102 tackles (52 solo), 14.0 tackles for a loss, and eight sacks. He also deflected one pass and recovered two fumbles.
His best season came in the 9-4 campaign when Colorado reached the Alamo Bowl, where he racked up 4.5 sacks only behind B.J. Green II’s 7.5.
Walker was tied atop the team this past season with Keaten Wade as both players recorded 2.5 sacks.
On Christmas Day, Colorado’s senior posted via X regarding his future plans.
Thank you to the University of Colorado and University of Missouri for the opportunity to pursue my academic and athletic career! And a special thank you to @DeionSanders and @CoachDrinkwitz 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/MWQRhG1Uga
— Arden Walker 🎉 (@walker_arden) December 25, 2025
Walker posted a 79.8 defensive grade in 2024, ranking as the No. 2 edge player in the Big 12. Colorado is going to miss his leadership and playmaking abilities.