Big Men in the Trenches: Ole Miss Secures Commitments from Former Washington Offensive Linemen Nate Kalepo and Julius Buelow, Two of the Nation’s Best
Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels have once again made a statement in the trenches, securing commitments from two former Washington offensive linemen, Nate Kalepo and Julius Buelow, two of the top big men in the nation. This bold move not only strengthens Ole Miss’ offensive line but also gives them a powerful presence at the line of scrimmage that can potentially elevate their offense to new heights. Kalepo and Buelow, both highly sought-after players with significant experience at the collegiate level, bring size, skill, and leadership to a position group that has often been a cornerstone for Kiffin’s offense.
The addition of these two linemen marks a major achievement for Ole Miss in their pursuit of continued success in the SEC. While the Rebels have been known for their explosive offensive play under Kiffin’s leadership, the program’s ability to develop a strong offensive line is critical for their ability to compete with the best in the SEC and on the national stage. With Kalepo and Buelow joining the fold, Ole Miss will have the necessary foundation to help their quarterbacks and running backs thrive, while simultaneously bolstering their pass protection and run-blocking schemes.
Nate Kalepo, a 6-foot-6, 340-pound offensive guard, is a mauler in the trenches who excels at both run blocking and pass protection. A native of Hawaii, Kalepo was one of the top recruits coming out of high school and quickly became a starter at Washington, where he earned praise for his work ethic and development. Kalepo’s strength and size make him an intimidating presence on the offensive line, and his ability to dominate at the point of attack allows him to control the line of scrimmage.
At Washington, Kalepo became known for his consistency and versatility. He has experience playing both guard positions, making him a valuable asset for Ole Miss’ offensive line as the Rebels will likely use him in multiple spots, depending on their needs. Kalepo’s skills in pass protection will be particularly crucial in Lane Kiffin’s high-tempo, pass-heavy offense, as the Rebels’ quarterback will need time to survey the field and make accurate throws.
Additionally, Kalepo’s size and strength in the run game will provide a powerful boost to Ole Miss’ ability to control the clock and establish a physical presence on the ground. His ability to open up lanes for the Rebels’ running backs will be key to maintaining balance in Kiffin’s offense, and his leadership on the field will be invaluable as Ole Miss looks to compete for SEC titles and College Football Playoff berths.
Julius Buelow, a 6-foot-7, 330-pound offensive tackle, joins the Rebels after starting multiple seasons at Washington. Known for his impressive length and athleticism, Buelow is one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the nation and has the physical attributes that make him a potential star at the next level. His versatility, ability to play both tackle positions, and experience in one of the toughest conferences in the country make him an excellent fit for the Ole Miss offensive line.
Buelow has the physical tools to become an elite player in the SEC. His agility for his size allows him to move well in both pass protection and run blocking, giving him the flexibility to play in multiple offensive schemes. As a tackle, Buelow is tasked with protecting the edge and ensuring that the quarterback has a clean pocket. His ability to lock down opposing pass rushers will be crucial for Ole Miss, especially in high-pressure situations where the offense needs to execute at a high level.
What sets Buelow apart is his ability to dominate in the running game. With his massive frame and powerful hands, he is able to drive defenders off the ball and create massive holes for running backs. Whether it’s paving the way for explosive runs or securing the edge on outside zone plays, Buelow’s presence will significantly elevate the Rebels’ run game and give them a more balanced offensive attack.
The addition of Kalepo and Buelow to the offensive line represents a game-changing moment for Ole Miss in 2025. While the Rebels have been known for their explosive playmakers at quarterback and skill positions, winning in the SEC requires a dominant offensive line. Kalepo and Buelow bring an added level of experience and skill to a position group that is often the unsung hero of successful teams.
In the SEC, where defenses are relentless and pass rushes come from all angles, having two experienced and physically gifted offensive linemen like Kalepo and Buelow gives Ole Miss a distinct advantage. These two players will help solidify the front line and allow Ole Miss to execute its up-tempo offense with more precision and control. Their presence in the trenches will allow the Rebels’ skill players to shine, whether that means giving the quarterback more time in the pocket or creating running lanes for the ball carriers.
Moreover, the leadership and experience that Kalepo and Buelow bring to the program will be invaluable. With both players having seen significant action at Washington, they will be able to provide guidance to the younger players in Ole Miss’ offensive line room. As the Rebels look to develop future stars, having veterans like Kalepo and Buelow will ensure that the younger players grow and learn from some of the best in the games.
With the addition of Kalepo and Buelow, Ole Miss has made significant strides in its quest to build a dominant offensive line that can compete at the highest levels of college football. These two players are among the best in the nation and will provide immediate impact, while also setting a foundation for future success in the trenches. For Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss, the investment in the offensive line is a clear signal that they are committed to becoming a powerhouse program capable of competing with the SEC’s elite teams on a weekly basis.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Rebels will be a team to watch, and with Kalepo and Buelow anchoring the offensive line, Ole Miss is poised to compete for SEC titles, playoff berths, and ultimately national championships. The big men in the trenches have arrived, and Ole Miss’ path to glory just got a whole lot stronger.