Packers lineman Rasheed Walker arrested at New York airport over firearm credential issue

NEW YORK (JN) – Green Bay Packers offensive tackle Rasheed Walker was arrested at New York’s LaGuardia Airport after police said he presented a firearm for inspection without having credentials valid in the state. Authorities said the incident occurred as Walker was preparing to fly out of the airport.

The case highlights the strict differences in U.S. state firearms laws, particularly in New York, where out-of-state gun licenses are generally not recognized. Walker’s attorney said the player voluntarily declared the weapon and expects the charge to be dismissed.

The Packers have not issued a public statement, and there is no indication the incident is related to team activities or league discipline at this stage.

Airport arrest and police account

According to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Walker was arrested Friday morning after officers responded to a request for a firearms inspection at Terminal C of LaGuardia Airport. Police said the 25-year-old checked in with Delta Air Lines and presented a firearm without possessing the proper New York credentials required to legally transport it.

Port Authority police did not allege that the firearm was loaded or used in a threatening manner. The arrest stemmed from compliance issues under New York firearms regulations, which are among the most restrictive in the United States.

New York law generally requires individuals to hold a state-issued license to possess or transport a handgun, and permits issued by other states are not typically recognized. Travelers who legally own firearms elsewhere can still face criminal charges if they enter New York without appropriate authorization, even when attempting to declare a weapon at an airport.

Defense response and legal posture

Walker’s attorney, Arthur Aidala, said his client voluntarily disclosed the firearm to airline staff and law enforcement. In an email statement, Aidala said the gun was unloaded and properly secured.

Aidala said Walker was arrested solely because his firearms license was not valid in New York, adding that there was no intent to violate the law. “We are confident the matter will eventually be dismissed,” Aidala said.

Cases involving firearm possession at New York airports are often resolved through dismissal or reduced charges when defendants can demonstrate lawful ownership elsewhere and a lack of criminal intent. Outcomes typically depend on prosecutorial discretion and the specific facts of each case.

Team context and player background

Walker has been a key figure on Green Bay’s offensive line over the past three seasons. He has served as the Packers’ first-team left tackle and has started 48 regular-season games since being selected in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Penn State.

The Packers’ season ended on Jan. 10 with a 31–27 loss to the Chicago Bears in the NFC wild-card round. Walker started that game, as well as each of Green Bay’s four playoff appearances over the last three seasons.

He has now completed the final year of his rookie contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent during the offseason. There has been no indication that the arrest will affect his contract status or future negotiations, pending the legal process.

Broader legal context

New York has pursued aggressive enforcement of its firearms laws, including at airports, where Port Authority police routinely check declared weapons. While federal law allows travelers to transport unloaded firearms under certain conditions, state-level licensing requirements can still apply.

High-profile cases involving athletes and entertainers have previously drawn attention to the lack of reciprocity between states on gun permits. Legal experts frequently warn travelers to research local laws carefully, particularly when passing through New York City-area airports.

At present, Walker has not been convicted of any offense, and the case remains pending. Authorities have not released additional details about potential court dates or charges beyond the initial arrest.