It’s Draft Day! Meet the Newest Additions to the Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals have made a significant addition to their roster, selecting Ole Miss defensive lineman Walter Nolen with the 16th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Held on Thursday in Green Bay, the draft saw 32 players realize their NFL dreams, with Nolen now set to join the Cardinals. He began his college career at Texas A&M, where he collected impressive stats over 22 games, including 66 tackles and five sacks.

After transferring to Mississippi, Nolen excelled under head coach Lane Kiffin. In his single season with the Rebels, he recorded 48 tackles and 6.5 sacks, earning multiple All-American honors and solidifying his status as a top-tier player. He was recognized by several associations, being named both a first-team and second-team All-American.

Additionally, Nolen was a finalist for the Outland Trophy, awarded to the best interior lineman in college football. He also garnered semifinalist status for the Walter Camp and Bednarik Awards, and an invitation to the Senior Bowl.

A five-star recruit from Powell High School in Tennessee, Nolen made an impact in his senior year, notching 93 tackles and 17 sacks. Now, he joins a talented defensive line that includes veterans such as Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson.

Cardinals players expressed their enthusiasm on social media following the announcement. Quarterback Kyler Murray welcomed Nolen with excitement, highlighting the essential role he will play in strengthening the team’s defensive front.

This pick marks the first of six choices for the Cardinals in this year’s draft, with the next selection occurring in the second round (15th pick overall). The draft continues through the weekend, with the Cardinals looking to bolster their roster further.

In another notable development from the draft, Arizona Wildcats’ wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan was selected eighth overall by the Carolina Panthers, setting a record as the highest-drafted player from Arizona since 1990.

As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds, the Cardinals aim to enhance their team with strategic selections, shaping their future in the league.