The Dallas Cowboys might be aiming to bolster their defensive line in the 2025 NFL Draft, and they have a couple of prospects in mind. Michigan’s Mason Graham is one option, though he may not be available when they pick at No. 12. Another candidate is Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen, but one NFL executive has advised caution regarding him.
Despite being one of the draft’s most promising defenders, an anonymous NFL executive informed ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler about Nolen’s “maturity concerns.” Various scouting reports indicate that Nolen has a history of leaving the field mid-practice out of frustration.
While this could be seen as competitiveness, some NFL scouts and executives may prefer to avoid such behavior in their organization. However, if Nolen can harness his emotions to enhance his performance on the field, he could become a formidable player.
In his final college season, he recorded 6.5 sacks, 49 total tackles, and 14 tackles for loss, earning him All-American honors. If the Cowboys, known for owner Jerry Jones’ “Second-Chance Valley Ranch” approach to players with past issues, believe they can nurture Nolen’s maturity, he might be a worthwhile first-round pick to strengthen the core of their defensive line.