Walter Nolen is a dynamic defensive tackle who played for the Ole Miss Rebels before entering the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing 6'3" and weighing 305 pounds, Nolen transferred from Texas A&M to Ole Miss for the 2024 season, where he significantly enhanced his draft stock. In his lone season with the Rebels, he recorded 48 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks, leading all FBS defensive tackles in tackles for loss and contributing to Ole Miss setting a school record with 52 sacks—the highest mark in the nation. His dominant performance earned him consensus first-team All-American honors and recognition as a finalist for the Outland Trophy, awarded to the nation's top interior lineman.
Following his standout college career, Nolen was selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 16th overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Scouting reports highlight his elite size, strength, and explosiveness, noting his ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage and potential as a pass rusher. Analysts praise his versatility to play multiple positions along the defensive line and his high football IQ.
