The Cardinals drafted defensive tackle Walter Nolen with the 16th overall pick in 2025. He played six games with no starts and totaled 11 tackles, two sacks and five quarterback hits.
“I don’t feel like I did enough,” Nolen said, via Darren Urban of the team website. “Being healthy is a big part of it.”
Nolen had a calf injury early and a meniscus tear in his left knee late.
He was limping on the sideline during Friday’s practice, but Nolen is healthy.
“I’m great. It was just a little hiccup,” Nolen said. “We got a long season ahead, so just doing what’s best for me. I’m faithful in the work that I put in. I’m faithful in the Lord, and I feel like everything good.”
Nolen dropped 10 pounds in the offseason by giving up junk food. He said he feels “more explosive” than last season.
The Cardinals are counting on him being more productive, too.
“I can’t say I’ve been on a good football team that didn’t have a very good defensive line, that wreaked havoc,” coach Mike LaFleur said.
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