Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Walter Nolen III (97) is introduced before their game against the San Francisco 49ers at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Nov. 16, 2025. Syndication: Arizona Republic
GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals front seven had its worst performance of the season in Week 14 vs. the Los Angeles Rams. Arizona recorded zero sacks and allowed 249 rushing yards, the most surrendered by the unit this year. The rushing defense has seen a massive dip since the injury to rookie defensive lineman Walter Nolen.
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After scoring his first touchdown in Week 12 vs. the Jacksonville Jaguars, Nolen exited the game with a knee injury and has been out every since. However, the Cardinals finally receive some good injury news with the first-round pick returning to practice on Wednesday.
Nov 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen III (97) returns a fumble for a touchdown during the first quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Nolen participating in Wednesday’s practice:
When at Ole Miss, Nolen was a major factor for the Rebels having the best run-defense in the country and has a similar impact for Arizona. The 22-year-old will help generate pressure for the defense, that has been lacking in that department. Besides the prowess of edge Josh Sweat having 11 sacks, no one else in the unit has stepped up to match that level of production.
Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Walter Nolen III (97) eyes San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Nov. 16, 2025.
If Nolen returned in Week 15 vs. the Houston Texans, he gives his team a much-needed boost in pressure rate and making quarterback CJ Stroud uncomfortable. Pro Football Focus has Nolen graded as the best defensive rookie in the 2025 draft class, and he can shift the odds in Arizona’s favor if he makes his return this Sunday.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
