Cordell Walker is a modern-day, crime-solving Texas Ranger who dispenses justice in the rugged tradition of the Old West. His closest friend is a former Ranger, C.D. Parker, who continues to offer advice on difficult cases after a knee injury forced him to retire. Walker is also assisted by Ranger James Trivette, a philosophical ex-football player. Walker sometimes butts heads with county assistant district attorney Alex Cahill, who shares a mutual attraction with Walker, but often disapproves of his unorthodox approach to law enforcement.