Packers Select ‘Next Aaron Donald’ in NFL.com Mock Draft
The Green Bay Packers are looking to strengthen their defensive line, especially with Kenny Clark coming off a disappointing season and TJ Slaton set to hit free agency. In a recent NFL.com mock draft, the Packers addressed this need by selecting Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen with the 23rd overall pick.
NFL Network analytics expert Cynthia Frelund highlighted Nolen’s explosiveness and ability to disrupt plays in both the run and pass game. However, she noted that he will need the right system to thrive, as his aggressive style could be neutralized by certain offensive schemes.
If drafted by Green Bay, Nolen could be a strong fit under new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. Devonte Wyatt, another former first-round pick, performed well when healthy in Hafley’s system, and Nolen’s skill set suggests he could do the same.
Nolen began his college career at Texas A&M, where he played two seasons before transferring to Ole Miss. In 2023, he posted four sacks and nine tackles for loss. His production skyrocketed in 2024, earning first-team All-American honors with 6.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, 48 total tackles, and three passes defensed.
His performance at the Senior Bowl further boosted his draft stock. NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah listed Nolen among the standout players at the event, praising his rare athleticism for a 6-foot-3, 293-pound defensive lineman. While he still needs to improve his ability to finish plays, his raw talent makes him an exciting prospect.
At the Senior Bowl, Nolen made a bold statement by declaring himself “the next Aaron Donald.” Speaking with The Draft Network, he expressed confidence in his versatility and playmaking ability, stating that he aspires to dominate the game the way Donald has.
Ole Miss defensive coordinator Pete Golding, who previously coached Quinnen Williams at Alabama, compared Nolen to Williams instead, emphasizing his quickness, power, and ability to impact both the run and pass game. Golding described him as a true three-down player who brings flexibility to the defensive line.
According to Pro Football Focus, Nolen ranked among the top prospects in both pass-rush win rate and run-stop percentage. However, The Athletic’s Dane Brugler noted inconsistency in his game, ranking him 20th overall, while Jeremiah placed him at No. 26.
A former five-star recruit and USA Today’s High School Defensive Player of the Year, Nolen has long been a highly touted talent. With the right coaching and system, he could become one of the best defensive players in his draft class.
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