Arizona Cardinals’ defensive lineman Walter Nolen, the 16th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, will miss at least the first four games of the season due to a calf injury.
A setback has struck the Arizona Cardinals once again as their top selection, Walter Nolen, is set to sit out the initial stretch of the season. Nolen’s lingering calf issue has landed him on the reserve/PUP list, delaying his highly anticipated debut on the field. This unfortunate turn of events echoes the Cardinals’ previous season, where another first-rounder, Darius Robinson, faced a similar setback, missing significant game time due to a calf injury.
The talented defensive lineman sustained the calf injury back in mid-July at the team’s facility, leading to his placement on the active/PUP list. While there is a glimmer of hope for Nolen’s return by Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans, the Cardinals will have to navigate their early matchups without his presence. The absence of Nolen for pivotal games against the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks presents a challenge for the Cardinals’ defensive line.
With high expectations surrounding Nolen’s impact, the Cardinals are undoubtedly keen on his swift recovery and return to the field. The team’s aspirations for a strong start to the season now face a hurdle with Nolen’s absence, emphasizing the importance of depth and resilience within the defensive unit. Cardinals fans will be eagerly awaiting Nolen’s comeback, hopeful that he can make a significant contribution upon his return.