Walter Nolen projected as 1st round pick in 2025 NFL Draft by Mel Kiper, Jr.

Ole Miss All-American defensive lineman Walter Nolen is projected as a 1st round NFL Draft pick by ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr., if his draft rankings pan out. Nolen slots as the No. 17 overall prospect in the 2025 draft in his updated rankings this week.
This season, Nolen is tied for the team lead in tackles for loss at 14.0, ranks third on the team with 6.5 sacks and fifth on the team at 48 total tackles – alongside three pass breakups, three QB hurries and two fumble recoveries.
“The former top recruit has been disruptive, making an impact for Ole Miss against the pass and run,” Kiper said. “He’s strong with active hands, and his explosive traits allow him to get interior pressure on the quarterback.”
Walter Nolen is going through another month’s worth of practices and the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville on January 2 for one very simple reason. Even though he’s a top draft prospect, he’s got another goal to check off his list.
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“Really it’s just the fact that I ain’t ever played in a bowl game,” Nolen said earlier this month. “I just felt like this would be a fun experience, especially with the group of guys that we got. I just want to enjoy one last ride with my guys.”
Nolen ranked as the No. 1 player according to the 2022 On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also tabs in as the No. 1 defensive lineman and the No. 11 player in the state of Tennessee.