GLENDALE – It would be hard for the Arizona Cardinals to be less healthy than last year. The franchise had 300+ combined games missed by starters, including rookie Walter Nolen. The former first-round pick was a highly-touted defensive lineman out of Ole Miss. However, a calf injury and a torn meniscus derailed his first year in the NFL. Entering 2026, with the doubters surround him and Arizona, Nolen is ready to prove people wrong.
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Dec 14, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) runs for a gain past Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen III (97) during the third quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Nolen on Cardinals shocking the doubters:
Arizona Central’s Theo Mackie talked to the 22-year-old at tight end Mack Wilson Sr.’s charity basketball game and spoke to him about his recovery process. While Nolen won’t be ready for OTAs later this month, he is expected to return in time for training camp, leading into the preseason. Getting a full offseason under his belt will do wonders for the young defensive lineman, who missed all training camp last year.
Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Walter Nolen III (97) reacts on the medical cart after suffering an injury against the Atlanta Falcons at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Despite only appearing in six games and playing 169 defensive snaps, Nolen already third in sacks for the Cardinals and fourth in tackles for loss. He had a very stellar debut vs. the Dallas Cowboys on primetime that helped secure the team’s only win outside of the first two weeks. Then, a scoop and score for a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars to illustrate his stellar athleticism at his size.
With defensive coordinator Nick Rallis returning, Nolen will be in the same system and prepared for a dominant bounce back campaign. Similar to rookie offensive lineman Chase Bisontis, Nolen is prepared for his team to prove those who are skeptical wrong.
Rookie Chase Bisontis claims 2026 is “Cardinals versus everybody”
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
