Former Texas A&M Defensive Lineman Walter Nolen Commits to Ole Miss
Walter Nolen, the highly sought-after defensive lineman, has announced his decision to transfer to Ole Miss. This move comes as a significant addition to the Ole Miss football program and a major recruiting victory over Oregon. Nolen, who was considered the top player in the transfer portal, joins the Rebels’ top-ranked transfer class.
Impressive Career and Stats
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 290 pounds, Nolen is a sophomore with immense potential. As a five-star recruit and the second overall prospect in the 2022 recruiting class, he brings exceptional talent to the Ole Miss defense. During his time at Texas A&M, Nolen started 14 games, recording 66 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and five sacks.
https://t.co/531yvPp90F
— Walter Nolen (@WalterNolenIII) December 24, 2023
Impact on Ole Miss
Nolen’s commitment is a significant boost for Ole Miss’ football program. Head coach Lane Kiffin and his staff successfully convinced Nolen, a disruptive defensive lineman with potential for a first-round NFL draft pick, to join their team. With key offensive players like quarterback Jaxson Dart, running back Quinshon Judkins, and receiver Tre Harris returning for the 2024 season, the Rebels are determined to make a run for the College Football Playoff. Nolen’s addition further strengthens their chances and solidifies Ole Miss as a contender in the expanded 12-team playoff.
Building the No. 1 Transfer Class
Ole Miss’ success in building the top-ranked transfer class is remarkable. Despite having many starters returning in 2024, Kiffin and his staff strategically targeted and secured commitments from some of the best defensive players available in the transfer portal. They started by acquiring linebacker Chris Paul Jr. from Arkansas and then won battles for top edge rushers Princely Umanmielen (Florida) and Tyler Baron (Tennessee). Additionally, they have commitments from five highly skilled defensive backs, including coveted cornerback Decamerion Richardson from Mississippi State. Out of their 12 commitments, nine are defensive players with previous starting experience at other Power 5 programs. This transfer recruiting class is one of the most impressive in the portal era, and it’s clear that Ole Miss is not finished yet.
Conclusion
Walter Nolen’s decision to transfer to Ole Miss is a significant development for both him and the Rebels’ football program. With his exceptional talent and the addition of other top defensive transfers, Ole Miss is positioning itself as a formidable force in college football. The team’s aspirations for a College Football Playoff run in 2024 are well within reach, thanks to their successful recruitment efforts. As the portal era continues to reshape college football, Ole Miss stands out as a prime example of how to build a winning team through strategic transfer acquisitions.
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(Photo: Troy Taormina / USA Today)