A trio of Ole Miss players have been recognized among some of the top performers in college football.
The postseason All-America roster compiled by the Associated Press features Rebel defensive tackle Walter Nolen, wide receiver Tre Harris, and linebacker Chris Paul, Jr.
Nolen, who recently made it known that he is NFL-bound after Ole Miss’ bowl appearance, came in as a first-team selection. The Texas A&M transfer was a vital piece for one of the best defenses in the country. Nolan is a team leader in tackles for loss at 14, ranks third on the squad with 6.5 sacks, and is fifth in total tackles with 48. He also had three pass breakups and two fumble recoveries this year.
Harris came in as a second-team selection, despite a lingering injury that sidelined the star wideout for a good chunk of the campaign. His 1,030 yards on 60 receptions with seven touchdowns rank second in the SEC, though he was on pace to be the top overall pass catcher nationally. Harris was the second-fastest Rebel to eclipse the 1,000-yard receiving benchmark, only behind Cleveland Browns starter Elijah Moore.
Paul, commonly referred to as “Pooh,” announced his intentions to go pro after an immensely successful year. The former Arkansas Razorback consistently ranked among the top linebackers in the SEC, tallying a team-best 88 tackles. He also tallied 11 stops for a loss, 3.5 sacks, four pass breakups, one interception, and one fumble recovery.
No players from Mississippi State and Southern Miss made the All-America list. Neither of the two programs will appear in a postseason contest this year.
Fans will have one last chance to see the Rebels in action this season when Ole Miss faces off against Duke in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl on January 2, 2025.