GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals bad luck when it comes to first-rounds continue with Walter Nolen. The 16th overall pick in the 2025 draft has officially been placed on the Physically Unable to Perform List due to a calf injury suffered before training camp and preseason, as the team set its 53-man roster. Nolen won’t be able to practice or play in the first four weeks of the season, meaning the earliest he can return is Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans.
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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
Cardinals rookie placed on PUP List:
Nolen has an eerily similar start to his career as Arizona’s 2024 first-round pick Darius Robinson. The pair of top picks both missed their rookie preseason, with Robinson not making his NFL debut until Week 12. The 23-year-old had a personal issue that kept him off the field as well, but looks primed to have a breakout sophomore season.
Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen III walks around during training camp July 27, 2025. He is recovering from an injury. Syndication: Arizona Republic
The former Ole Miss Rebels defensive lineman will have to wait at minimum another month before he can touch the field and make his debut for the franchise. Arizona’s depth on the D-line is one of the team’s strength with Pro Bowlers like Josh Sweat and Calais Campbell leading the charge.
However, back-to-back years with the Cardinals’ first-round pick not available to start the season will be a tough pill to swallow for fans.
Cardinals keep Bam Knight on 53-man roster, cut DeeJay Dallas and Michael Carter
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
