23 Players in 23 Days: #12 Walter Nolen

Position: Defensive Lineman
Classification: Sophomore
Hometown: Powell, Tenn
Height: 6-4
Weight: 290 lbs.

Key notes from Olin’s thoughts on Nolen

• Walter Nolen had 29 tackles in 10 games. That's not bad at all for a freshman. He had 1.5 sacks and 2.5 TFLs. 
   
• He lost 30 pounds from last year. He went from 320 to 290. I think you will see a stronger and quicker Nolen. He will be a guy that no one knows how to handle. They all need to get better on the pass rush. You expect his entire game to go up a little, but you expect that as a sophomore. When he was out there, he was noticeable. I think he becomes a guy that wreaks havoc.
   
• I would like to see more of Nolen. He was rated higher than Myles Garrett. Think of who has been a great interior defensive lineman. I expect him to be at least as good as DeMarvin Leal. 
   
• About 10 years ago, LSU had a guy named Glenn Dorsey. He had a ton of accolades and was a freaking war horse. I don't want to put that on him, but Nolen can be in that kind of discussion.
   
• I would think Nolen would be more motivated than normal to play at Tennesee this year.