Panthers set to host projected first-round 2025 NFL Draft prospect on top-30 visit who could fill their biggest need
We are less than three weeks away from the 2025 NFL Draft. The Carolina Panthers have nine picks, giving them an opportunity to get to round out their roster nicely. Before we get there, the Panthers are doing their due diligence by meeting with as many prospects as possible. Among them is Ole Miss defensive […]
We are less than three weeks away from the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Carolina Panthers have nine picks, giving them an opportunity to get to round out their roster nicely. Before we get there, the Panthers are doing their due diligence by meeting with as many prospects as possible.
Among them is Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen, who Carolina will host on a top-30 visit this week, per a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
What is a top-30 visit?
A top-30 visit denotes one of the 30 prospect visits allowed for teams during the pre-draft period. The Panthers host prospects varying from potential first-round selections to those who go undrafted, providing them a glimpse into NFL life in Carolina. Although no on-field workouts will occur, teams can utilize this opportunity to conduct meetings with coaching staff for film analysis, perform physical exams with team doctors, tour the facilities, and more.
How does Nolen fit with the Panthers?
Even with Derrick Brown returning from injury and the free agent signing of Tershawn Wharton, Carolina could still use one more legitimate defensive lineman to solidify the unit after ranking 29th in sacks during the 2024 season. Enter Nolen, whose athletic traits may be at the very top among all DTs in this year's draft class.
He possesses an incredible blend of power and quickness, but needs does to refine his fundamentals. Nolen is a three-down player who has played elite competition for three seasons in the SEC. With some good coaching up, he should develop into a well-rounded player and become a force against the run and as a pass rusher.
There has been chatter about character concerns regarding Nolen dating all the way to his high school days, but there aren't really any specific examples. While the Panthers should definitely explore that and take it seriously, sometimes these things can get a bit overblown. If Carolina is serious about selecting Nolen, it will have to use its No. 8 overall selection on him.
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