2025 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles add to their defensive line

Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss

The wait is finally over …

The NFL shouldn’t allow the Philadelphia Eagles to draft Walter Nolen (no way he falls to 32), but the BGN Draft community just did …

Walter Nolen is a beast on the football field, which is why the 31 other fake GM’s made a terrible mistake in letting this Blue Chipper fall to Philly21.

Walter Nolen is the pick!

If our beloved Philadelphia Eagles somehow added Nolen to their defense (without having to trade up), it would significantly enhance our already strong defensive front.

Nolen is a disruptive force on the interior (and exterior) of the defensive line and pairing him with the Eagles’ existing defensive talent would create nightmares for opposing offenses.

All those worries about Milton Williams leaving for a huge payday just melt away.

Here’s how Nolen would fit into the Eagles’ defense:

Stronger Defensive Line Rotation

• Defensive Line Depth: Nolen’s addition would give the Eagles one of the most formidable defensive lines in the league, continuing their trend of rotating fresh bodies throughout the game.
• The Rotation: Nolen could come in on passing downs as an interior pass rusher, replacing a veteran in certain packages. He could also rotate with Jordan Davis on early downs to help stop the run, ensuring fresh legs throughout the game.
• Milton is gone: Again, adding Walter Nolen really helps fill the void left by Milton Williams.

Improved Pass Rush

• Interior Pressure: Nolen’s athleticism and pass-rushing ability would provide the Eagles with a dominant interior force.
• Quarterback Disruption: Nolen has a rare combination of size, strength, and agility, allowing him to disrupt the quarterback’s rhythm from the inside, something that can often go overlooked but is critical in making offenses uncomfortable.

Stout Run Defense

• Run-Stopping Ability: Nolen is known for being an elite run defender. With Jordan Davis already a force against the run, adding Nolen would give the Eagles a dual threat inside. The Eagles could use Nolen alongside Davis to clog running lanes, forcing teams to pass more and making it easier for the defense to predict and react.
• Versatile Defensive Line: The versatility of the Eagles’ line would increase with Nolen—he could be used as a 3-technique defensive tackle or even shift out to the edge in certain pass-rushing situations, depending on the alignment.

Versatility in Defensive Schemes

• Defensive Coordinator Vic Vangio’s Flexibility: The Eagles’ defensive scheme would benefit greatly from Nolen’s skill set. With his explosiveness, Nolen can be used in multiple positions along the defensive line…
• Disrupting the Offense: Nolen’s ability to create mismatches by using his strength and quickness to push offensive linemen back would allow the Eagles’ defense to dictate the tempo of the game.

Complement to the Secondary

• Easier for the Secondary: Adding Nolen would also help the secondary. With a strong pass rush, our corners would benefit from less time in coverage, as the quarterback would be forced to make quicker decisions under pressure.
• Making Life Easier for Linebackers: Linebackers would also be able to focus on their assignments more effectively if Nolen can create chaos up front. Less time spent worrying about blocking and more opportunities to make plays in the backfield.

Defensive Line Rotation with Walter Nolen

Interior (DT/IDL):

• Jordan Davis – Massive space-eater, elite run defender.
• Jalen Carter – Explosive, twitchy, disruptive pass-rusher.
• Walter Nolen – Combo of strength and burst, perfect for 3-tech or 1-tech depending on the look.
• Now you’re talking about a three-man wrecking crew up front in Carter–Davis–Nolen. That’s size, speed, and violence on every snap.
• Moro Ojomo, Gabe Hall, and Bryce Huff () round out our depth…
• So what time is it?

What This Means Strategically:

• Constant fresh legs: Philly rotates their D-line a lot, so adding Nolen would keep guys fresh and destructive all game.
• Unstoppable pass rush: Teams would have to double someone—probably Carter or Nolen—leaving others 1-on-1.
• Elite run defense: Good luck running between the tackles with Davis + Nolen clogging the middle.
• Versatility: Nolen can line up all over the interior, letting the Eagles throw different looks at QBs every drive.

Adding Walter would turn an already stacked unit into one of the scariest front sevens in the league. Think 49ers or Jets (when they were good) level dominance in the trenches, but even better.

Walter Nolen History

Walter Nolen was born on October 14, 2003, in Memphis, Tennessee. His high school career was marked by exceptional performances across multiple schools, culminating in a standout senior year that solidified his status as a top national recruit.​

High School Career:

Olive Branch High School, Mississippi (Freshman and Sophomore Years): Nolen began his high school football journey at Olive Branch High School in Olive Branch, Mississippi, where he showcased his emerging talent as a defensive force. ​

Saint Benedict at Auburndale, Memphis, Tennessee (Junior Year): For his junior year, Nolen transferred to Saint Benedict at Auburndale in Memphis, Tennessee. This move allowed him to further develop his skills and gain exposure to different coaching styles and competitive play. ​

Powell High School, Powell, Tennessee (Senior Year): Nolen concluded his high school career at Powell High School in Powell, Tennessee. In his senior year, he delivered an outstanding performance with 93 tackles, 33 tackles for loss, 27 quarterback hurries, and 17 sacks. His contributions were pivotal in leading Powell to a 13-2 record and securing the Class 5A state championship. These achievements earned him the title of Tennessee’s Player of the Year and recognition as the nation’s No. 1 recruit by USA Today. ​

Accolades:

• Under Armour All-America Game: Nolen’s senior year performance earned him an invitation to the Under Armour All-America Game, where he showcased his talents on a national stage. ​
• USA Today High School Defensive Football Player of the Year (2021): His exceptional high school career culminated in being named the USA Today High School Defensive Football Player of the Year in 2021.

Nolen’s high school trajectory, marked by consistent excellence and leadership, set the foundation for his successful college career, and his future in the NFL.

College Career:

• Texas A&M University (2022–2023):
• Freshman Year (2022): Nolen played in 10 games, recording 29 total tackles (17 solo, 12 assisted), including 3 tackles for loss and 1 sack. ​
• Sophomore Year (2023): He appeared in 12 games, amassing 37 total tackles (20 solo, 17 assisted), with 8.5 tackles for loss and 4 sacks. ​
• University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) (2024):
• Junior Year (2024): Nolen transferred to Ole Miss, where he delivered an exceptional performance over 13 games. He tallied 48 total tackles (26 solo, 22 assisted), including 14 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. His outstanding play earned him consensus first-team All-American honors.

2025 Senior Bowl

Walter Nolen’s performance at the 2025 Senior Bowl significantly bolstered his draft stock, showcasing his exceptional skills and versatility as a defensive tackle.​

Practice Highlights:

• Throughout the week, Nolen consistently impressed coaches and scouts with his explosive first step, quickness, and power during one-on-one drills. His ability to disrupt the offensive line was evident, as he dominated pass-rush scenarios, demonstrating both agility and strength. ​
• Game Performance:
• In the Senior Bowl game, Nolen continued his dominant display, contributing significantly to the defensive efforts. His presence in the interior disrupted the opposing offense, and his performance was a key factor in the defense’s success.

Overall, Nolen’s week at the Senior Bowl reinforced his status as a top-tier defensive line prospect, blending speed, power, and versatility. His performance solidified his position as a potential first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

2025 NFL Scouting Combine

Walter made a significant impact during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, even though he chose not to participate in on-field drills.​

Measurements and Physical Presence:

• Height: 6’3”​
• Weight: 296lbs​
• Arm Length: 32 1/2 inches​
• Hand Size: 9 1/2 inches

These measurements highlight Nolen’s impressive physique, aligning with his reputation as a powerful and agile defensive lineman.​

Combine Participation: Nolen opted out of all on-field workouts, including the 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical jump, broad jump, three-cone drill, and 20-yard shuttle. Instead, he focused on interviews and meetings with NFL teams during the Combine. Reportedly, he met with several teams, including the San Francisco 49ers, Denver Broncos, Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, and Arizona Cardinals. ​

Team Interactions: During the Combine, Nolen expressed his admiration for the 49ers (puke), mentioning his appreciation for former players Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman. This insight into his background provided teams with a glimpse of his character and interests beyond football. ​

Walter’s Draft Profile

The good

• Impressive playmaking production as an interior defender.
• Twitchy off the snap and into blockers with good pop.
• Power to punch and shove defenders aside to take over the gap.
• Can absorb double teams or play across blocker’s face and into backfield.
• Outstanding body control to regain balance and make a play.
• Ability to pressure the pocket creates three-down value.
• Sets up his edge-to-edge rush challenges.
• Able to bend and rip his way under redirect blocks.
• Rush stays alive with active hands and secondary effort.

The bad

• Below-average extension and control at the point.
• Needs to play with consistent inside hands to stay clean.
• Base width can narrow on him in both phases.
• Looks to disengage from blocks too quickly at times.
• Rush needs a more diversified first-phase approach.
• Inconsistent to capture rush edge when it opens.

How did Walter fall all the way to pick #32?

Draft Stock Considerations: Nolen’s decision to bypass on-field drills raised concerns among some NFL teams, especially given previous reports of attitude issues. There were indications that certain teams might have removed him from their draft boards due to these concerns. This development has led to discussions about how Nolen’s Combine approach might affect his draft position, with some speculating he could fall to the second round. ​

1. Inconsistent Production

• While he’s flashed elite ability, Nolen hasn’t always put up eye-popping stats every game. Some scouts might question his consistency—does he dominate snap to snap, or just show flashes?
• Especially with DTs, evaluators look for steady impact, not just “wow” plays.

2. Motor / Effort Concerns

• Occasionally, elite high school recruits coast on talent early in college. If scouts see any signs of a questionable motor, effort issues, or inconsistent intensity, that can raise red flags—fair or not.
• Even a perception that he doesn’t go 100% every play can drop a guy’s stock.

3. Scheme Fit

• Some teams run schemes where they want twitchy gap-shooters (like Aaron Donald), others want space-eaters. If Nolen falls in the “tweener” zone for some teams—big, but not a true nose; quick, but not an edge—they may pass for someone who fits their system more cleanly.

4. Injury Concerns

• If he’s had any injuries or durability issues in college, even if minor, those get hyper-scrutinized at the Combine and during team medical checks.
• Sometimes a guy drops just because of a flagged MRI that fans never even hear about.

5. Off-the-Field Questions

• Nothing public suggests this is an issue with Nolen, but teams dig deep into character, work ethic, interviews, etc.
• Any hint of red flags—attitude, coachability, locker room vibes—can cause him to slide.

6. The BGN Draft community made a terrible, terrible mistake!

Why is Walter Nolen a better draft pick then Tyler Booker?

With what was left on the draft board, Tyler Booker was my only other player I truly considered. The other players left at pick #32 either are almost 26 (old), had terrible off the field issues (accused of sexual assault twice), to small or to slow, or played a position we do not need to invest a 1^st rounder in (safety).

Comparing Walter Nolen vs. Tyler Booker is like choosing between a bulldozer and a brick wall. They’re both beasts, but here’s why Walter Nolen is the better draft pick:

Premium Position Value

• Nolen: Plays defensive tackle, a premium position in today’s NFL. Interior D-linemen who can pressure QBs and stop the run are rare and insanely valuable.
• Booker: An offensive guard, and while guards are important, they don’t typically go as high in the draft unless they’re generational.

Teams build around disruptors. A DT like Nolen can tilt the field on defense.

Game-Changing Potential

• Nolen has shown flashes of being a game-wrecker. When he’s locked in, he can singlehandedly blow up plays—sacks, tackles for loss, collapsing the pocket.
• Booker is more steady and technically sound—but he’s not going to take over a game the way a dominant DT can.

Athletic Ceiling

• Nolen’s size + athleticism combo is freakish. He’s 6’3”, 295 and moves like a linebacker at times. There just aren’t many humans built like that.
• Booker is athletic for a guard, but his upside is more about refinement than raw tools.

Scheme-Changer

• A disruptive DT like Nolen lets your edge guys go 1-on-1, and forces offenses to change protections. That has ripple effects across your whole defense.
• Booker can lock down the interior, but he’s not going to change how an opponent calls plays.

The Counterpoint:

To be fair—Booker is safer. He’s consistent, strong, technically refined, and you know what you’re getting. Nolen has a higher ceiling, but also a few character/motor questions that could spook teams. But…

Defense wins championships!

The idea that “Defense wins Super Bowls” is rooted in a few key reasons why defensive units often have a profound impact in championship games. Here are the primary factors:

Shutting Down the Opposing Offense

• Controlling the game: A dominant defense can shut down the opposing offense, disrupting timing, forcing turnovers, and making it hard for the offense to score. When a defense takes over a game, it limits the opponent’s chances to put points on the board, often giving the offense more opportunities to capitalize.
• Key example: The 2015 Denver Broncos defense led by Von Miller stifled the Carolina Panthers’ high-powered offense in the Super Bowl. Miller’s relentless pressure on Cam Newton and the Panthers’ offensive line played a huge role in Denver’s victory.

Pressure on the Quarterback

• Quarterback Disruption: Defense often makes or breaks games by getting to the quarterback, forcing bad throws, or even creating turnovers (like interceptions or fumbles). Super Bowl victories are often decided by who can control the quarterback’s effectiveness.
• Key example: The New York Giants’ defense in the 2007 and 2011 Super Bowls was able to get to Tom Brady and disrupt his rhythm. In the 2007 Super Bowl, their defensive line famously pressured Brady, leading to the Giants’ victory over the undefeated Patriots.

Takeaways Are Game-Changers

• Turnovers: Turnovers are among the most impactful plays in football. A timely interception or fumble recovery can dramatically change the momentum of a game, providing excellent field position or even scoring directly.
• Key example: In Super Bowl XLIX, the Seattle Seahawks’ defense famously intercepted a pass at the goal line in the final moments to deny the Patriots a game-winning touchdown. That play changed the course of the game and secured the win for the Patriots.

Controlling Field Position

• Special Teams and Defense: A good defense can help control the field position by forcing the opposing offense to punt, which in turn gives your offense more favorable situations. This is critical in a Super Bowl, where every possession counts.
• Key example: In Super Bowl 50, the Broncos defense not only pressured the quarterback but also caused a crucial turnover that allowed their offense to capitalize, keeping the Panthers’ offense pinned deep in their own territory.

Big Plays in Key Moments

• Super Bowls are often tight games where the momentum can shift in an instant. Having a defense that can make a game-changing play—whether it’s a sack, interception, or a defensive touchdown—at a crucial moment is vital to securing a win.
• Key example: The 2000 Baltimore Ravens’ defense was one of the most dominant of all time and completely shut down the New York Giants’ offense in Super Bowl XXXV. The defense scored a touchdown and stifled the Giants’ every attempt to score.

Game-Planning and Adjustments

• Super Bowl Preparations: Defenses that win Super Bowls tend to be prepared for the unique challenges that come with facing elite offenses. Successful defenses can adjust to the offensive game plan, disrupting timing and causing confusion for the quarterback.
• Key example: The Patriots’ defense in Super Bowl LIII made adjustments throughout the game, stifling the high-powered Los Angeles Rams’ offense. They allowed just three points and were a big reason why the Patriots won.

Balancing the Offense

• While offenses get the headlines, a stout defense provides a complementary force that allows teams to play a more balanced game. If the offense is struggling, a strong defense can keep the team in the game long enough for the offense to find its rhythm.
• Key example: The Chicago Bears’ defense in Super Bowl XX was instrumental in shutting down the Patriots’ offense, allowing the Bears to win 46-10 despite an average (at best) offensive performance.

If you’re betting on upside and want a true difference-maker in the trenches, Walter Nolen gives you more potential for dominance.

This Howie Impersonator says Walter Nolen is the pick, and Howie never looks back.

After this coup, can Philly21 make history and draft for the Birds 2 years in a row.

Walter Nolen would take the Eagles’ defensive line from DAMN GOOD to How did the league let this f*#%ing happen (Micah Parson’ tears), creating THE BEST defensive unit in the NFL (again). The team would have a balanced, dynamic defense capable of stopping the run, creating pressure, and forcing turnovers, not to mention our existing bad ass offense.

While a high-powered offense can win games throughout the regular season, defense has historically been the difference-maker in the Super Bowl.

Games tend to tighten up in the postseason, and defenses that can pressure the quarterback, force turnovers, and make key stops in critical moments often shine brightest on the big stage. Defense can take over games in a way that changes the outcome—making it true that defense WINS championships.

This leaves just one final question …

Who should I pick at No. 32 next year?

Poll

Do you approve of this pick?

• 0%

  Yes

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  No

  (0 votes)

0 votes total

Vote Now

2025 BGN Mock Draft Order

1) Titans (JoeDirtsBarber): Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado

2) Browns (kjb304): Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State

3) Giants (The Player Formerly Known as Mousecop): Cam Ward, QB, Miami

4) Patriots (ReginaldHtower): Will Campbell, OT, LSU

5) Jaguars (eaglenomics): Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

6) Raiders (dkays): Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

7) Jets (Stick19154): Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

8) Panthers (89Tremaine): Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

9) Saints (FierceDisc65): Jalon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

10) Bears (DrprofBubbles): Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia

11) 49ers (granthill7): Armand Membou, OT, Missouri

12) Cowboys (Be subpar for Ja’Marr): Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

13) Dolphins (thehead92): Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

14) Colts (green1us): Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State

15) Falcons (All_Hail_Howie): James Peace Jr., EDGE, Tennessee

16) Cardinals (Good Bad Ideas): Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

17) Bengals (ablesser88): Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M

18) Seahawks (herbalonius): Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

19) Buccaneers (Hoosinole): Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

20) Broncos (Silverlark60): Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

21) Steelers (Dr.MidnightGreen): Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

22) Chargers (LancGuy): Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

23) Packers (Leo Bedio): Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

24) Vikings (krikkebelgium): Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

25) Texans (Aint1stULast): Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

26) Rams (Booth12): Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

27) Ravens (pheebthegoose): Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas

28) Lions (Neil Dutton): Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M

29) Commanders (Mailata_in_a_Miata): Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College

30) Bills (PhilaWolverine): Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

31) Chiefs (niels.rosenquist): Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota

32) Eagles (Philly21): Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss

---

Now it’s time for you to vote for who YOU think should be selected in the 2025 BGN Community Consensus Mock Draft.

Poll

Who should the Eagles pick at No. 32?

• 0%

  DT Walter Nolen

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  EDGE Nic Scourton

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  OG Tyler Booker

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  CB Maxwell Hairston

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  CB Trey Amos

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  WR Matthew Golden

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  WR Luther Burden

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  EDGE Landon Jackson

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  TE Mason Taylor

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  DT Tyleik Williams

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  OG Donovan Jackson

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  OT Aireontae Ersery

  (0 votes)

• 0%

  EDGE Olwuafemi Oladejo

  (0 votes)

0 votes total

Vote Now

1) Titans: QB Cam Ward

2) Browns: EDGE Abdul Carter

3) Giants: WR/CB Travis Hunter

4) Patriots: OT Will Campbell

5) Jaguars: DT Mason Graham

6) Raiders: RB Ashton Jeanty

7) Jets: OT Armand Membou

8) Panthers: CB Will Johnson

9) Saints: EDGE Jalon Walker

10) Bears: TE Tyler Warren

11) 49ers: OT Kelvin Banks Jr.

12) Cowboys: WR Tetairoa McMillan

13) Dolphins: OT Josh Simmons

14) Colts: TE Colston Loveland

15) Falcons: EDGE Mykel Williams

16) Cardinals: EDGE James Pearce Jr.

17) Bengals: EDGE Shemar Stewart

18) Seahawks: QB Shedeur Sanders

19) Buccaneers: LB Jihaad Campbell

20) Broncos: RB Omarion Hampton

21) Steelers: QB Jaxson Dart

22) Chargers: DT Kenneth Grant

23) Packers: CB Jahdae Barron

24) Vikings: S Malaki Starks

25) Texans: OL Grey Zabel

26) Rams: WR Emeka Egbuka

27) Ravens: S Nick Emmanwori

28) Lions: EDGE Mike Green

29) Commanders: EDGE Donovan Ezeiruaku

30) Bills: DT Derrick Harmon

31) Chiefs: OT Josh Conerly Jr.

32) Eagles: