Ole Miss football has several talented players expected to be selected in the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay at the end of April. The Rebels could have three chosen in the first round, one of which is Walter Nolen. The defensive tackle has been a consensus first-round pick since the 2024 season ended.
Nolen, who spent two seasons at Texas A&M, then transferred to Ole Miss before the 2024 season. After two seasons that some would argue were below his best, Nolen showcased precisely why he was the No.2 ranked player in the 247Sports 2022 recruiting class.
The Tennessee native finished the 2024 season with 48 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, and two fumble recoveries. He helped the Rebels to the nation's No.2 ranked run defense, allowing just 80.5 yards per game.
NFL analyst Greg Cosell was speaking on the Ross Tucker Podcast and waxed lyrical about Walter Nolen and what he can do in the NFL.
"The guy that fascinates me the most is Walter Nolen. He has plays in the SEC that look like Jalen Carter's tape at Georgia."Greg Cosell
“The guy that fascinates me the most is Walter Nolen. He has plays in the SEC that look like Jalen Carter's tape at Georgia.”@GregCosell with a STRONG take about Ole Miss’ Walter Nolen: pic.twitter.com/DMY5KwQRwt
— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) April 11, 2025
As mentioned, Nolen is not expected to get past the first 32 picks, with San Francisco, Kansas City, and Cincinnati just three of many teams that have brought the big man in for a visit. Many believe he is a top-10 talent, with the Carolina Panthers also a possible destination.
Nolen really boosted his draft stock after his one season with the Rebels and could go in the first round alongside quarterback Jaxson Dart. Nolen has spoken in the past, and he models his game on the game of former NFL player and Super Bowl winner Aaron Donald. If he gets another close to his level, he is in for a successful NFL career.