With the 16th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals selected Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen, aiming to fortify their defensive front with a powerful and versatile interior presence.
Nolen, a 6-foot-4, 296-pound standout, delivered an impressive final collegiate season at Ole Miss, recording 6.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss. His performance earned him All-American honors and showcased his ability to disrupt opposing offenses from the interior line. Prior to his tenure at Ole Miss, Nolen spent two seasons at Texas A&M, where he accumulated nine tackles for loss and four sacks, demonstrating consistent development throughout his college career.
The Cardinals’ decision to draft Nolen addresses a need for long-term stability on the defensive line. While veterans Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson provide experience, both are in the later stages of their careers. Nolen’s addition offers a youthful infusion of talent, poised to learn from seasoned players while preparing to take on a more prominent role in the future.
Analysts have praised Nolen’s physical attributes and potential, noting that while he may require refinement in technique, his raw power and athleticism make him a high-upside prospect. His ability to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays aligns with the Cardinals’ defensive strategies, aiming to enhance pressure on opposing quarterbacks and bolster run defense.
As Arizona continues to build a competitive roster, Nolen’s selection signifies a commitment to strengthening the core of their defense, with expectations that he will develop into a cornerstone of their defensive line in the coming seasons.
