The Arizona Cardinals concluded their offseason program, giving valuable insights into their potential performance for the upcoming season. Cornerback Will Johnson's recovery remains uncertain, as he grapples with knee and hamstring concerns. The first-round pick, Walter Nolen, showcased explosive agility, impressing coaches and veteran players alike. The offensive strategy is expected to remain familiar but with enhancements aimed at maximizing Kyler Murray's playmaking abilities with creative pre-snap motions. Key rookies, including Nolen and Johnson, appear poised for significant roles, while Mack Wilson is in the running for the starting middle linebacker position.

The Ole Miss Rebels football program made significant strides during the 2025 NFL Draft, achieving a record with 11 players invited to the NFL Combine and seeing eight former players selected, including quarterback Jaxson Dart and defensive tackle Walter Nolen in the first round. Despite some undrafted players, many found opportunities as free agents, showcasing the effective coaching of Lane Kiffin. Notably, edge rusher Jared Ivey and cornerback Isaiah Hamilton signed with the Seattle Seahawks, where both will compete for a roster spot among a strong defensive lineup. Ivey's unexpected undrafted status raises eyebrows, especially with scouts rating him higher. Hamilton, while not a draft pick, quickly attracted Seattle's attention, indicating their faith in his potential. This offseason holds promise for both as they aim to secure positions on a loaded roster alongside their fellow Rebels.

The Arizona Cardinals are counting on rookie defensive lineman Walter Nolen to flourish within a strong mentoring environment, anchored by veterans Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson. With a combined 25 years and 386 games of experience, Campbell and Tomlinson bring invaluable leadership to a position group pivotal for the team’s success. General Manager Monti Ossenfort emphasized the significance of veteran presence in shaping new talents like Nolen, who expressed eagerness to absorb knowledge from his experienced teammates. Campbell, known for his leadership at all levels, stressed the importance of uplifting younger players, helping them acclimate to professional standards both on and off the field. Head Coach Jonathan Gannon is equally optimistic about the strength and depth of the D-line, highlighting the competition for roles and the potential for players to thrive in various positions, which could enhance the team’s defensive capabilities.

Walter Nolen, a first-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals, is drawing ambitious comparisons to Aaron Donald as he sets out to carve his NFL legacy. Nolen admires Donald’s rapid-fire style and relentless energy, stating he shares similar attributes in his approach to the defensive line. He expresses a strong desire to achieve even greater success than Donald, who has cemented his place in NFL history with three Defensive Player of the Year awards and eight All-Pro selections.

Nolen's determination caught the attention of Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon, who highlighted the defensive lineman's unique confidence and the heart he brings to the team. As he prepares for his rookie season, expectations are high for Nolen to contribute significantly to the Cardinals' defense and potentially emerge as a cornerstone player in the coming years.

The Arizona Cardinals have made a significant move in the NFL Draft by selecting defensive lineman Walter Nolen with the 16th overall pick. This explosive 6-foot-4, 300-pound player brings a notable college resume, including 6.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss in his final year at Ole Miss.

Nolen was highly touted as the top recruit in his high school class, showcasing his potential early on. After transferring from Texas A&M, where he had solid contributions, concerns about his multiple school changes have been raised, but his on-field performance speaks volumes. In his last college season, Nolen achieved an impressive 91.6 run defense grade, second only to Mason Graham, who went fifth overall to the Cleveland Browns.