Adelaide forward Taylor Walker has detailed the moment he discovered Don Pyke was leaving the Club.

Speaking on Triple M’s Roo & Ditts, Walker said he had “a tear in his eye” when Pyke delivered the news.

“He (Pyke) gave all the leaders a ring… said he had some news to tell,” Walker said.

“I had a tear in my eye, Ellie (Walker) broke down as well.

“I found it very sad, for a bloke who has done so much for this footy Club.

“He never wanted fame, or money, he was here to help us as footballers… he cared about you as a bloke.”

Walker believed it was another example of the AFL industry becoming more “ruthless”.

“It’s sad that he has to move on,” Walker said.

“I feel (for) the health and wellbeing of players… there’s going to be a lot of strain on players and coaches.”

SEASON REVIEW: A look back at Walker's 2019 season

The 29-year-old was tightlipped on the qualities he wants from Adelaide’s next head coach, simply saying the Club should “go and get the best one available”.

Walker announced earlier this month that he was stepping down from the captaincy to focus on enjoying his footy and spending time with his family.

“It has been a great privilege to lead this Club for the last five years, through some great times and some very sad and challenging times,” Walker said at the time.

“It has made me realise what's really important in my life - family, mateship and making the most of the time we have in the game we all love.

“The role has helped me grow, mature, learn and seek to understand others’ views but most of all I’ve enjoyed the challenge of leading this football club.”

Walker announced the following day that his wife Ellie was pregnant and that the pair were expecting in November.