Walter Nolen’s rise in the 2024 NFL Draft is no fluke. His combination of strength, size, and technical ability makes him one of the top defensive tackle prospects in this class
With elite run defense and improving pass-rushing skills, he has the potential to be a dominant force at the next level.
As teams finalize their draft boards, Nolen’s name will undoubtedly be high on the list for franchises looking to bolster their defensive lines.
If he continues to refine his skills, particularly in the pass-rushing department, he could develop into an elite NFL interior lineman for years to come.
Whether he lands with a rebuilding team or a playoff contender, one thing is certain—Walter Nolen is ready to make an impact in the NFL.
Walter Nolen’s potential selection by the Bengals at No. 17 in the 2025 NFL Draft would make a lot of sense. His combination of size, strength, and versatility could immediately bolster Cincinnati’s defense.
While nothing is guaranteed in the draft, Nolen’s talent makes him one of the most intriguing prospects to watch. If the Bengals do select him, they could be securing a future star on their defensive line.
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Table of Contents
Walter Nolen: The Rising Defensive Force in the 2024 NFL Draft
Walter Nolen’s Meteoric Rise
Walter Nolen has been one of the most talked-about defensive prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.1
Despite opting out of workouts at the Scouting Combine, the Ole Miss defensive tackle’s stock continues to surge.
His combination of size, strength, and technical prowess has caught the attention of analysts and scouts alike.
Most recently, NFL analyst Trevor Sikkema offered high praise for Nolen’s abilities, highlighting his elite potential as both a run defender and a developing pass rusher.
While Nolen is already an elite run defender, his pass-rushing skills are steadily improving. Sikkema noted that Nolen is getting better at attacking quarterbacks, though he has yet to develop a consistent pass-rush plan.
Who got 2k22?
— Walter Nolen9️⃣🏈🏈 (@WalterNolen4) January 30, 2022
Developing Pass-Rushing Skills
However, his quick and strong hands indicate that he has the raw tools necessary to succeed in this aspect of the game.
NFL teams value defensive tackles who can generate interior pressure, as it disrupts quarterbacks and collapses the pocket. Nolen’s ability to refine his pass-rushing moves will significantly impact his effectiveness at the next level.
If he can develop a signature move or a counter strategy, he has the potential to be an every-down menace.
A defining trait of elite defensive linemen is hand technique, and Nolen’s strong hands allow him to disengage from blockers with ease.
While he is still working on refining his approach to rushing the passer, his hand placement and usage in run defense are already at an NFL level. His ability to control offensive linemen with quick, violent hand movements enables him to dictate engagements in the trenches.
Walter Nolen’s Physical Dominance
Strength Like an Ox
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 305 pounds, Nolen possesses an imposing frame that allows him to physically overpower opponents.2
According to Sikkema, Nolen’s upper-body strength is unmatched, making him a nightmare for offensive linemen.
His ability to “throw dudes out of the club” speaks volumes about his raw power and presence on the field. This strength is a key reason why teams view him as a high-floor defensive prospect with an ability to hold his ground against elite competition.
Run Defense Prowess: Holding the Line
One of the most significant strengths in Nolen’s game is his ability to hold the line in run defense. Sikkema emphasized that teams won’t have to worry about Nolen getting overpowered at the NFL level.
His stack-and-shed ability ensures that he can disengage from blocks and disrupt running plays effectively.
In today’s NFL, where defensive tackles must anchor the front line against explosive running backs, Nolen’s run-stopping ability makes him an invaluable asset.
His technique, balance, and power enable him to neutralize double teams, making him a reliable force in the trenches.
A Versatile Defensive Asset
Versatility is a highly coveted trait in modern defenses, and Nolen checks that box. Whether it’s going head-to-head with a guard or taking on a center, he can hold his ground against multiple blockers.
Sikkema pointed out that if a team needs someone to go up against a guard and a center and hold the line of scrimmage, Nolen is the ideal choice.
This level of versatility allows defensive coordinators to plug Nolen into various schemes without worrying about mismatches.
Whether in a traditional 4-3 defensive tackle role or a 3-4 defensive end position, Nolen’s physical attributes and technical skills make him a fit for multiple defensive schemes.
Walter Nolen: Compares to Other Top DT Prospects
Nolen is often compared to other top defensive tackle prospects in the draft, including Darius Alexander and Derrick Harmon.3
While each player has their strengths, Sikkema made it clear that when it comes to holding the line of scrimmage and dominating in the run game, Nolen stands out. His combination of size, power, and football IQ gives him a higher floor than many of his peers.
Scouts have noted that while some DTs in this class may have more refined pass-rushing moves, few offer the same balance of immediate run-stopping ability and long-term potential as Nolen.
This makes him a highly attractive option for teams looking to solidify their defensive front.
Potential Landing Spots in the NFL Draft
As Nolen’s stock continues to rise, several teams are emerging as potential suitors.
Teams with a strong need for defensive line reinforcements, such as the Chicago Bears, Las Vegas Raiders, and New Orleans Saints, could be prime candidates to select him.
The Bears, for instance, have struggled with interior line play and could use a run-stuffer like Nolen to shore up their defense. The Raiders, known for prioritizing strong defensive fronts, may also view him as an ideal addition.
Meanwhile, the Saints, with an aging defensive line, could benefit from Nolen’s presence as they look to the future.
NFL Comparisons: Who Does Nolen Resemble?
Player comparisons are always a fun way to gauge a prospect’s potential impact. Nolen’s size, power, and run-stopping prowess draw comparisons to Jeffrey Simmons of the Tennessee Titans.
Like Simmons, Nolen has the ability to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage and could develop into a dominant force with proper coaching.
Another comparison is with Fletcher Cox, a multi-time Pro Bowler known for his balance between run defense and pass rushing. If Nolen can refine his pass-rushing moves, he could follow a similar trajectory and become a long-term cornerstone on an NFL defensive line.
Despite his impressive skill set, Nolen is not a finished product. As previously mentioned, his pass-rush plan remains a work in progress. While he has the physical tools, he needs to develop more consistent counter moves to keep offensive linemen guessing.
Additionally, his conditioning will be something to monitor. At 305 pounds, maintaining elite-level stamina over four quarters will be crucial in ensuring he maximizes his impact. With the right strength and conditioning program, he should be able to refine this aspect of his game.
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Walter Nolen Projected to Cincinnati Bengals in Daniel Jeremiah’s Mock Draft
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, and one of the most intriguing defensive prospects is Walter Nolen.
According to Daniel Jeremiah’s latest mock draft, the Cincinnati Bengals are expected to select Nolen with the No. 17 overall pick in the first round. If this prediction comes true, Nolen could provide a significant boost to the Bengals’ defensive front.
The 2025 draft class features several talented defensive tackles, including names like Maason Smith (LSU) and Leonard Taylor III (Miami).
While each prospect has their own strengths, Nolen’s blend of power, quickness, and versatility makes him one of the most well-rounded defensive linemen available.
Potential Impact in Year One
If drafted by the Bengals, Nolen could make an immediate impact. While rookies often face an adjustment period, his experience against SEC competition should help ease his transition.
He could start in a rotational role before eventually becoming a full-time starter, depending on Cincinnati’s depth chart and defensive needs. The speed and complexity of the NFL game are a step above college football.
While he has raw power, refining his hand placement and pad level will be crucial. Staying healthy through a grueling NFL season will be important for his long-term success.
Bengals’ Draft Strategy: Could They Trade Up or Down?
The Bengals hold the No. 17 pick, but draft-day trades are always a possibility. If another team is high on Nolen, Cincinnati might have to trade up to secure him.
Conversely, if they believe they can land him later, they could trade down and acquire additional picks.
“Nolen has the size, athleticism, and motor to be a game-changer on the Bengals’ defensive line.”
“If Cincinnati lands Nolen, he could be a long-term anchor in the middle of their defense.”
“Nolen’s ability to disrupt plays in the backfield makes him an ideal fit for a team like Cincinnati that needs more interior pressure.”
Walter Nolen’s Collegiate Journey
From Texas A&M to Ole Miss
Walter Nolen’s journey to the 2025 NFL Draft has been eventful. He began his collegiate career at Texas A&M in 2022, playing two seasons for the Aggies before transferring to Ole Miss in 2024.
This move allowed him to showcase his talents in a new defensive system and against top-tier SEC competition.
Over three seasons, Nolen accumulated 114 tackles, 11.5 sacks, and 26 tackles for loss across 35 games, solidifying himself as one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in college football.
The Bengals have consistently been a competitive team in recent years, but their defensive line has lacked a dominant presence in the interior.
The departure of key defensive linemen in free agency and the need for a stronger run defense make defensive tackle a priority for Cincinnati.
Adding a player of Nolen’s caliber could transform their front seven and help the team compete in a tough AFC North division.
Nolen’s Strengths and Skills
Walter Nolen possesses a rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism that makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Here are some of his standout traits:
- Powerful Frame: At 6’4” and 290 pounds, Nolen has the physical tools to overpower offensive linemen.
- Explosiveness Off the Line: His first-step quickness allows him to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays.
- Versatility: Nolen has the ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line, making him a valuable asset in different schemes.
- Run-Stopping Ability: His ability to clog lanes and shed blockers makes him effective against the run.
- Pass-Rushing Upside: While primarily known for his run defense, Nolen has shown flashes of pass-rushing potential with 11.5 sacks over his college career.
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Potential Fit in the Bengals’ Defense
If the Bengals select Nolen, he would likely be a key component of their defensive line rotation. Cincinnati’s defensive scheme relies on aggressive linemen who can generate pressure while also being stout against the run.
Nolen’s skill set aligns well with this philosophy, and he could form a formidable duo with established veterans or other young defensive linemen on the roster.
Comparisons to NFL Players
Many scouts have compared Walter Nolen to some of the NFL’s top defensive tackles. Some of the most common comparisons include:
- Jeffery Simmons (Tennessee Titans): Like Simmons, Nolen possesses elite strength and explosiveness.
- Quinnen Williams (New York Jets): Both players excel at disrupting both the run and pass game.
- Chris Jones (Kansas City Chiefs): Nolen’s ability to move around the defensive line draws comparisons to Jones’ versatility.
Fan Expectations and Excitement
Bengals fans are already buzzing about the possibility of drafting Nolen. After making several playoff appearances in recent years, adding a dominant defensive lineman could help push Cincinnati even closer to a Super Bowl.
Social media reactions suggest that fans would welcome the move, especially given the team’s current defensive needs.
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