GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals are still dealing with an unwelcome development from back in July, when rookie defensive tackle Walter Nolen landed on the PUP list after suffering a calf injury. While the setback is not considered season-ending, it will possibly delay the debut of one of the team’s most anticipated young players.
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Aug 2, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen III in the Red and White practice during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Walter Nolen was drafted to inject size, strength, and explosiveness into the Cardinals’ defensive front. At 6-foot-4 and 300 lbs, he was projected to be part of a rotation that could help stabilize a unit that struggled against the run last season. His absence means fewer live reps to adjust to NFL speed and technique, a critical element for any rookie transitioning from college football. The designation keeps him off the practice field until the medical staff clears him, and the Cardinals have been cautious about setting a timeline. For now, that creates uncertainty about whether he will be fully prepared when the regular season begins.
Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen III (97) during organized team practice at the Arizona Cardinals training center in Tempe on June 3, 2025. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Head coach Jonathan Gannon’s system emphasizes discipline up front, and rookies like Nolen were expected to play meaningful roles in shaping that identity. Gannon mentioned, “Health is always first with all of our guys,” Gannon said. “We’ve got a couple guys nicked up. So we’ll just see kinda how it all falls together.” (Credit: Theo Mackie | Arizona Republic)
Jun 10, 2025; Tempe, AZ, USA; Cardinals defensive lineman Walter Nolen III (97) talks with Calais Campbell (93) during minicamp at the teams Arizona Cardinals Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Arizona is counting on Nolen’s potential, but the team must also prepare contingency plans if his recovery takes longer than hoped. His return to the field will be closely watched, as he could be a big piece to whether the Cardinals’ defense takes a step forward in 2025.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
