Five-star DT Walter Nolen (6-4 300) of Cordova, TN, who is ranked the #1 defensive tackle prospect in the 2022 class in the 247Sports Composite, Friday released his top ten list, and Clemson is in the mix. The Tigers are joined by LSU, Alabama, Michigan, Florida, Oregon, Ohio State, Tennessee, Auburn and Southern Cal for the prospect ranked #2 nationally.
Clemson defensive tackles coach Todd Bates has been carrying the workload for the Tigers in recruiting Nolen, who says the two are building a good relationship.
“Coach Bates has been teaching me some stuff and guiding me in the right direction,” Nolen said. “He’s been telling me how all of their players play, how I would be a good fit, and just teaching me stuff. Coach Venables is pretty cool. I like what he’s doing with his defense and the program. He loves his job and loves what he does with the kids.”
The entire Clemson defensive staff recently hosted Nolen for a virtual tour. That gave him a chance to see what would await him should he choose to join the Tigers.
“The facilities were great. I can see why they are one of the top programs in college football,” he said. “I liked what I saw. It was pretty cool just getting to see everything.”
Nolen also has taken virtual tours with Alabama and LSU. His hope is to be able to see most, if not all, of his top ten schools at some point so he can make a more educated decision.
“I want to get out and see everything,” Nolen said. “If I get a chance, I want to see everything I can. I feel like I’m starting to get a good relationship with every school. Clemson is different from a lot of schools in the way they run things. I’m looking for a family and feeling welcome. Just an overall brotherhood that matches me. I feel like they are going to get someone that is going to work hard and do whatever it takes to win for their school and their town.”
Last season Nolen totaled 98 tackles, with 30 tackles for loss and eight sacks.
