Elite In-State DT Walter Nolen Talks Vols, Early Recruitment, and More

Walter Nolen is a consensus top-five prospect regardless of where you look. The 2022 elite defensive tackle's recruitment is fixing to kick wide open when schools can begin to call him on September 1st. He holds communication on his own with several, including Tennessee. Nolen talks about his recent transfer back to a Memphis area school, his game, and the Vols here. 

Nolen spent a brief stint at IMG Academy (Fla.) this summer after transferring from Olive Branch (Miss.) to the national powerhouse. However, COVID-19 made Nolen re-think the decision, and he moved back closer to his family. Nolen chose St. Benedict at Auburndale in Memphis. 

He said about this decision, "it was really just God showing me his plan. Originally, I was focused on a different high school, but I guess God had different plans."

Nolen will now play for former Tennessee Volunteer Marlon Walls at SBA. The two have had a growing relationship, which played a part in the elite defensive tackle choosing the school.

He said, "it was really just me staying in contact with Coach Walls through the years, and just when I came home, it seemed like the right school for me to go." 

Nolen holds multiple offers from major Power Five schools, including the likes of Alabama, LSU, Clemson, and Tennessee. 

He said on his early recruitment, "I have been trying to keep my head clear and focusing on finishing high school out. I have been trying to not think too much about recruiting. Honestly, it can get stressful sometimes."

Nolen said about Tennessee, "I feel like they have been doing a great job when I talk to them on the phone. I check in with them and stuff." 

Nolen said he talks the most with "Pruitt and Brumbaugh."

Nolen added on Pruitt, "he likes to check on my family and making sure my family and me are doing good. He asks me what I am thinking about my season." 

Nolen knows what the decision process will come down to for him. He said, "it will basically be whichever school I fell most at home, where I can bond with everyone."

The 6'4, 300 pounds junior is one of the most explosive players in the country. He has run a 4.9 laser-timed forty-yard dash, and his first step is as quick as any you will at the high school level. 

Nolen said on what he thinks he brings to the game, "I feel like I am, not to be cocky, I am a game-changer. I feel like whenever we are doing bad, I'll be the one to pick the team up and put them on my back at some point." 

Nolen will start receiving calls from college coaches tomorrow, and he isn't sure who to expect, but the likelihood is that his phone will start ringing early and often.