Daniel Harms of The Draft Network released a mock draft this week, projecting the San Francisco 49ers to address a critical need with their first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He has the team selecting Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen with the 11th overall pick.
“There isn’t much talent or upside at the defensive tackle position in San Francisco, and dropping Walter Nolen into that front provides just that,” Harms wrote. “Nolen is an explosive, powerful, and multiple defender who can start for the 49ers in year one.”
The 49ers met with Nolen at the NFL Scouting Combine last month, which was likely a special moment for the defensive lineman, who grew up a fan of the Bay Area team.
“He grew up a fan of the 49ers and especially liked Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman,” NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco reported.
Nolen played two seasons at Texas A&M before transferring to Ole Miss. Over his final two college seasons—one at Texas A&M and one at Ole Miss—he recorded 10.5 sacks. In 2024, he posted 48 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and three passes defensed for the Rebels, per Sports Reference.
Nolen could significantly strengthen a 49ers run defense that struggled last season. His 91.6 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus ranked second nationally among defensive linemen, trailing only Michigan’s Mason Graham (92.6).
Over his three collegiate seasons, Nolen amassed 114 tackles (26 for a loss), 11.5 sacks, four passes defensed, and a forced fumble.