The San Francisco 49ers are grabbing headlines ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft as ESPN analyst Peter Schrager predicts they will select Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen with the 11th overall pick, bypassing Michigan’s Mason Graham, widely regarded as a “can’t-miss” prospect. If this comes to pass, it would spark significant debate among fans and analysts. Below are five potential reasons why the 49ers might favor Nolen over Graham, based on current reports and analysis.
1. Fit for an Aggressive Defensive Scheme
Under defensive line coach Kris Kocurek and with Robert Saleh’s return, the 49ers are seeking a defensive tackle who thrives in an aggressive, penetrating style that disrupts opposing offenses. At 6’4” and 295 pounds, Walter Nolen combines explosive speed with elite ability to penetrate the backfield. He recorded 6.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss in the 2024 season at Ole Miss, showcasing his potential to wreak havoc. In contrast, while Graham is a well-rounded defender, he excels more in run defense than as a pass-rusher. Nolen is seen as a “perfect fit” for the 49ers’ one-gap defensive system.
2. Reshaping the Defensive Line
After parting ways with veterans like Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins, the 49ers need to rebuild their defensive front with young, dynamic players who align with their new philosophy. Described as a “bowling ball of chaos” by Niners Nation’s Kyle Posey, Nolen brings ferocity and top-tier run defense, earning a 91.6 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus—second only to Graham. Hargrave and Collins struggled against the run, and Nolen is expected to address this weakness, helping the 49ers recapture the dominance of their 2019 defensive line, which Kyle Shanahan once called “the best ever.”
3. Long-Term Development Potential
While Graham is considered a safer pick with a higher floor due to his consistency and technique, Nolen offers greater upside with a higher ceiling. Analysts like ESPN’s Field Yates describe Nolen as a “wrecking ball” with overwhelming strength and speed, capable of developing into a star like Chris Jones or Jalen Carter under the right coaching. Some even suggest Nolen could surpass Graham in NFL adaptability, particularly in a structured environment like San Francisco’s. However, this comes with risks, as Nolen is seen as “raw” and needs to improve discipline in maintaining gap integrity.
4. Character Evaluation and Cultural Fit
Nolen’s personality has sparked some debate, with critics labeling him as “arrogant.” Yet, he has performed well in pre-draft interviews, and the 49ers appear confident in his ability to mesh with their locker room, which includes leaders like Nick Bosa. Conversely, Graham is viewed as a “culture-changer from day one” with proven leadership, making the decision to pass on him bold. The 49ers’ willingness to bet on Nolen suggests they value his talent and believe their environment can mold him into a star.
5. Flexible Draft Strategy
With 11 picks in the 2025 draft, the 49ers may be pursuing a bold strategy: selecting Nolen in the first round while targeting other defensive tackles like Derrick Harmon or Kenneth Grant in later rounds to bolster their front. Reports indicate the 49ers prioritized Nolen after pre-draft visits, unwilling to risk losing him to teams like the Philadelphia Eagles. Meanwhile, Graham, despite his high value, could be taken by a top-10 team, prompting the 49ers to secure Nolen—a player they believe offers comparable value at pick 11.
Fan Reaction
Schrager’s prediction has ignited fierce debate. Many X posts express shock and frustration, with one fan calling the decision to skip Graham “laughable” and predicting 49ers fans would “lose it” if this unfolds. However, some support Nolen, highlighting his year-over-year improvement and relentless effort on the field.
Conclusion
Choosing Walter Nolen over Mason Graham, if it happens, would be a high-stakes gamble for the 49ers, reflecting their ambition to reshape their defensive line with a game-changing talent. While controversial, this move signals confidence in their ability to develop Nolen into a star within their system. The 2025 NFL Draft promises surprises, and the 49ers are a team to watch.