Elite Top247 DL Nolan Wilson is down to 
In the ever-competitive world of college football recruiting, every decision by a blue-chip prospect sends shockwaves across the landscape. This week, that tremor came courtesy of Nolan Wilson, a Top247 defensive lineman and one of the most disruptive trench warriors in the 2025 class. After months of campus visits, high-profile performances, and relentless recruitment from the nation’s best, Wilson has officially trimmed his list to five finalists — and each program still in contention has reason to believe it could land the game-changing lineman.
Let’s break down what makes Wilson so coveted, which schools made his final five, and what might separate the eventual winner in this all-out recruiting battle.
Hailing from Grayson High School in Loganville, Georgia, Nolan Wilson has long been on the radar of Power Five programs. At 6-foot-4 and 275 pounds, Wilson combines elite burst off the snap with violent hands, positional versatility, and football IQ that scouts say is “well beyond his years.”
Ranked as a Top100 overall prospect in the 2025 cycle by 247Sports, Wilson isn’t just athletic — he’s dominating against elite competition. He logged 60 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks during his junior campaign, facing double-teams in nearly every game. On film, he pops — whether exploding off the edge, sliding inside as a 3-tech, or disrupting screens and short-yardage plays with his length and quickness.
Analysts are split on whether he projects best as a 3-4 defensive end, a 4-3 three-technique, or even a stand-up rusher, but all agree: Nolan Wilson is a future difference-maker.
On Thursday afternoon, Wilson announced his Top 5 schools in a post on social media that featured a slick graphic and one caption: “Let’s get it. 🔒 Final 5. Decision coming soon.” The programs that made the cut are:
🐘 Alabama Crimson Tide
🧡 Tennessee Volunteers
🐯 LSU Tigers
🍀 Notre Dame Fighting Irish
🔴 Georgia Bulldogs
Let’s look at each contender and what makes them a realistic landing spot for the five-star lineman.
No surprise here. The back-to-back national champions under Kirby Smart are widely viewed as one of the best defensive development programs in college football — and they’ve churned out NFL talent at an absurd rate, especially on the defensive line.
Why Georgia makes sense:
-
Proximity to home (Loganville is just an hour from Athens).
-
Deep relationship with DL coach Tray Scott.
-
Georgia’s history of developing first-round linemen (see: Travon Walker, Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis).
-
A defensive scheme that allows versatile linemen like Wilson to thrive in multiple roles.
Buzz: Many insiders have labeled Georgia the “team to beat” for months, but competition is heating up. Wilson has visited Athens more than any other school.
Whether it’s Nick Saban’s legacy or Kalen DeBoer’s new era, Alabama remains a premier destination for elite defenders. Wilson has made two visits to Tuscaloosa, and his camp has praised Alabama’s consistency and professionalism throughout the process.
Why Alabama makes sense:
-
Consistent national contender.
-
DL development pipeline is elite (Quinnen Williams, Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne).
-
DeBoer’s defensive staff is loaded with NFL experience.
-
Strong relationship with new DC Kane Wommack.
Buzz: Alabama’s push feels strategic — not flashy, but focused. If Wilson is looking for a balance of academics, tradition, and exposure, Bama checks every box.
Under Josh Heupel, Tennessee has emerged as one of the most aggressive recruiting staffs in the SEC. The Vols were early to offer Wilson and hosted him for a crucial March junior day that reportedly left a lasting impression. Defensive line coach Rodney Garner has been relentless in building trust.
Why Tennessee makes sense:
-
Opportunity to play early and lead a rebuilding defensive line.
-
NIL infrastructure and branding potential are strong.
-
Garner is a respected DL developer across the SEC.
-
Wilson has called Neyland Stadium one of the “most electric” atmospheres he’s experienced.
Buzz: Tennessee might be third or fourth on paper, but they’ve closed strong in past cycles. Don’t be shocked if the Vols make the final two.
Brian Kelly and defensive coordinator Blake Baker are targeting athletic disruptors like Wilson to return LSU’s defense to national prominence. The Tigers are pitching a hybrid system that would let Wilson showcase his skillset across multiple fronts.
Why LSU makes sense:
-
A clear role in LSU’s evolving defensive scheme.
-
History of DL production (Danielle Hunter, Barkevious Mingo, Glenn Dorsey).
-
Great off-field fit with Baton Rouge vibe and team culture.
-
Wilson loved his April official visit and reportedly bonded with multiple current players.
Buzz: LSU is making a real push late. They’re using film breakdowns and custom schemes during Zooms to show Wilson exactly how he’d be used.
Notre Dame is often seen as a long shot in battles with SEC schools, but not with Nolan Wilson. He’s made it clear that academics matter — and the Irish are emphasizing player development, NFL preparation, and national exposure. DL coach Al Washington has played a key role.
Why Notre Dame makes sense:
-
Academic prestige.
-
High-character locker room and development culture.
-
Big-time national TV exposure every week.
-
Real relationships — Wilson has cited strong bonds with Marcus Freeman and staff.
Buzz: The Irish are the “x-factor” school here. If Wilson prioritizes longevity, development, and post-football success, Notre Dame could shock the field.
Wilson is expected to take official visits to all five schools in June, with a commitment likely to come before his senior season begins in late August. Here’s what we know so far:
-
June 1–3: Alabama
-
June 7–9: Notre Dame
-
June 14–16: LSU
-
June 21–23: Tennessee
-
TBD: Georgia (could be a midweek visit)
He’ll also return to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, where he’s training over the summer before rejoining his high school team in Georgia. Expect a few 7v7 camp appearances, but Wilson is keeping things mostly low-key from here.
According to multiple recruiting analysts, this is shaping up to be a Georgia vs. Alabama vs. LSU battle with Tennessee and Notre Dame as strong challengers.
-
On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine: Georgia (40%), Alabama (25%), LSU (20%)
-
247Sports Crystal Ball: One pick for Georgia, one for Alabama — both with medium confidence.
-
Rivals FutureCast: Split between Alabama and LSU.
Of course, much can change after official visits. One powerful trip, one strong NIL presentation, or one parent meeting can tilt the scales quickly.
Whoever lands Nolan Wilson isn’t just adding a five-star recruit — they’re adding a potential All-American, a locker room tone-setter, and a player whose ceiling may well be Top-10 NFL Draft pick territory. In an era when elite defensive linemen are as valuable as quarterbacks, Wilson holds the keys to future championship aspirations.
As his final decision looms, the anticipation builds. Which coach will win him over? Which fan base will get to celebrate? One thing is certain: Nolan Wilson’s recruitment will be one of the most closely watched of the 2025 class.
Stay tuned — the war in the trenches has only just begun.
