Pete Golding’s three-year extension at Ole Miss elevates him into the top tier of college defensive coordinators, with an average annual value of 2.61 million. The move underscores Lane Kiffin’s commitment to elite defense after a season that saw Ole Miss rank second in points allowed (14.4 per game) and lead the nation in sacks per game (52), marking a school-record defensive performance.

Ole Miss faces a rebuild, losing nine starters on defense, including Walter Nolen, the No. 16 overall pick who joined the Arizona Cardinals. Golding remains bullish about 2025, stressing a “good mesh” of veteran system knowledge and a strong influx of high school recruits and transfers. Returning interior disruptors like Zxavian Harris, plus edge presence Suntarine Perkins and portal additions Princewill Umanmielen and Da’Shawn Womack, are mapped to keep the Rebels’ front from losing its bite and to sustain the program’s defensive identity.

The 2025 plan hinges on continuity at the front and depth behind it, with Golding calling for a seamless transition that preserves his approach even as personnel turn over. The message is clear: Ole Miss intends to defend at a historically high level again, leveraging a blend of returning players and new faces to sustain a disruptive, aggressive scheme.

The Arizona Cardinals are facing intense competition at several key positions as they kick off training camp. Among the most notable battles is the defensive line, where eight players are vying for just six or seven roster spots. Prominent players include Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson, both of whom are expected to start, given their extensive experience and success in the league. However, a calf injury to rookie Walter Nolen III and lingering issues for Bilal Nichols may impact the roster dynamics.

The situation is compounded by the fact that the Cardinals utilize a rotation system on the defensive line, making playing time more accessible for a wider range of players. The team’s history of rotating personnel suggests that even those who may not secure a starting spot will still receive significant snaps throughout the season. The upcoming weeks will be critical in determining who will solidify their place in the Cardinals' defensive strategy.

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.