Arizona Cardinals secure Walter Nolen with No. 16 pick in NFL draft

In a significant move during the NFL draft held on April 25, 2025, the Arizona Cardinals selected Walter Nolen, a defensive lineman from Mississippi, with the 16th overall pick. Nolen, who had a standout season in 2024 with 14.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, previously spent two years at Texas A&M where his performance was less impressive. The Cardinals, desperate to strengthen their defense after an inconsistent season, viewed Nolen as a vital piece of their multi-year rebuild following an 8-9 season. Nolen's confidence in his abilities, likening himself to retired NFL star Aaron Donald, reflects the potential the Cardinals see in him. Walter Nolen, at 6-foot-4 and 296 pounds, made his mark at Mississippi after transferring from Texas A&M, where he was a highly touted five-star recruit. His growth into a first-team All-American came amid concerns regarding his maturity and on-field motor, which he acknowledged but felt were addressed by the Cardinals during the draft process. Despite the skepticism surrounding him, Nolen expressed gratitude and excitement about being selected by a team that showed genuine interest in understanding his perspective. This display of trust further solidifies his commitment to prove himself at the professional level. The Cardinals had a clear focus during this draft, targeting emerging talents to improve their defensive roster. They not only acquired Nolen but also selected Michigan cornerback Will Johnson at No. 47, reinforcing their commitment to building a robust defense. Coach Jonathan Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort are on a mission to guide the franchise back into playoff contention, having not made the playoffs since 2021. Both individuals are under pressure to make wise choices in player acquisitions, and their confidence in evaluating talent has grown, especially after their previous year's selections. Nolen's addition reflects the Cardinals’ strategic approach to addressing their defensive needs while fostering competition within the team. With a reputation built through hard work and recent achievements at Ole Miss, Nolen is ready to compete at a higher level, positioning himself among the veterans. The Cardinals aim to cultivate a strong defensive unit that can bring them back into the spotlight, aiming for a significant turnaround in their upcoming season.