The Arizona Cardinals are undergoing significant changes in their offensive lineup. With Kyler Murray now part of Minnesota’s roster, Jeremiyah Love has stepped in as a key player for Arizona. Nathaniel Hackett joins as the Cardinals’ new offensive coordinator, teaming up with the first-time head coach, Mike LaFleur, who previously held the position of offensive coordinator with the Rams. However, it is a defensive player who might capture the spotlight in 2026: Walter Nolen III.

During the 2025 NFL Draft, Arizona selected Nolen with the 16th overall pick. Coming from Ole Miss, Nolen distinguished himself with a remarkable junior year, earning consensus All-American and first-team All-SEC accolades. He recorded 48 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, three pass deflections, and two fumble recoveries in 13 games.

Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Nolen entered his rookie season with high expectations. A calf injury placed him on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list just before training camp, delaying his NFL debut until Week 9 against the Cowboys. In his first game, he impressed with four tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack. A few weeks later, he scored a touchdown against the Jaguars.

Unfortunately, injuries struck again when Nolen sustained a knee injury in Week 16 against Atlanta, ending his season. He finished with 11 tackles, five tackles for loss, two sacks, and a fumble recovery in only six games. Despite these setbacks, fans are eager to see his impact in 2026.

The knee injury turned out to be a meniscus tear instead of a more damaging ACL tear. Nolen has been actively working out and progressing well as training camp begins. Arizona cleared space for him by releasing veteran Calais Campbell, who played 46% of the defensive snaps last season.

Kaleb Proctor was drafted as another defensive option, but he faces his own challenges with a torn meniscus sustained during OTAs. This injury may increase responsibilities for both Nolen and fellow first-round pick Darius Robinson. With defensive coordinator Nick Rallis remaining in his position, Nolen won’t have to adjust to a new system, allowing him to start the season healthy and prepared.

If Nolen’s performance as a rookie is any indication, Arizona could have a reliable defensive force on their hands throughout an entire 17-game season.