Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen is a 2024 All-American and a surefire first-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft. The well-decorated defensive force started his collegiate career at Texas A&M where he played two seasons before transferring to Ole Miss.
In his senior year at Mississippi, Nolen led the team in tackles for loss with 14 and was fourth in sacks with 6.5. The versatile lineman lined up all over the defensive front, and showed he can be a run-stopper as well as a viable pass-rusher.
On the edge, Nolen has quickness and speed and uses his power well. If he plays inside, he has the strength to collapse the pocket and make life difficult for quarterbacks.
Nolen is everything you want in a do-it-all defensive tackle and has the ferocity and physicality to dominate immediately. Nolen is a potential Pro Bowl talent and a top 15 prospect in the draft class.
Position: Defensive tackle
Projected round: 1st
Height: 6’3
Weight: 305
Fit for Miami
The Dolphins may lose veteran Calais Campbell to retirement or free agency. Furthermore, they have other players across the defensive line, like Benito Jones and Da’Shawn Hand, set to hit the market. Veteran Zach Sieler is one of the more underrated and productive defensive tackles in the league, and if Miami added Nolen to the line, it could wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
Nolen’s versatility and Sieler’s consistency could make for a potent pair up front for the Dolphins. Should Campbell retire or depart, the Dolphins will need to address the line one way or another.
Bottom line
The last time Dolphins general manager Chris Grier used the No. 13 overall pick he drafted Clemson defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. Miami let Wilkins hit the free agency market last offseason and he joined the Las Vegas Raiders.
While Campbell was a more than adequate replacement, it was only a temporary one with his retirement looming.
If Campbell hangs up the cleats, Nolen could be a great match with Sieler to create yet another tandem of tackles in Miami.
