Arizona Cardinals Face Setback with Walter Nolen's Injury Ahead of Buccaneers Matchup

The Arizona Cardinals will be without rookie defensive tackle Walter Nolen III for their upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to a knee injury. Head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed this decision during a Wednesday press conference, noting that Nolen sustained the injury during the Cardinals' recent 27-24 overtime loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Nolen, who had only played four games this season after recovering from a calf injury, was ruled out for the second half of the Jaguars game after participating in less than ten snaps.

HeavySports IllustratedWalter Nolen out this week, as Arizona Cardinals prepare for Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Walter Nolen, the No. 16 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has shown promise in his limited appearances. Despite not recording any tackles in the Jaguars game, he made a significant impact by scoring his first NFL touchdown on a fumble recovery. In total, he has accumulated eight tackles, including four for a loss, and one sack during his brief time on the field. His Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 84.6 ranks him among the top players at his position, highlighting his disruptive playmaking ability in both the run and pass game.

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Nolen's absence is particularly concerning for the Cardinals, who currently hold a 3-8 record and are struggling defensively, especially against the pass. The team has faced multiple injuries this season, including to star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and running back Trey Benson, both of whom are also sidelined. Additionally, starting quarterback Kyler Murray has been out since Week 5 due to a foot strain, raising questions about his future with the team amid trade rumors.

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Jonathan Gannon expressed disappointment over Nolen's injury but emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. He stated, "Obviously, he got hurt and he is not playing — that's a negative, but the positive of that is you have to study, focus and visualize the time extra with him because he wasn't playing." Gannon also mentioned that players like Dante Stills and PJ Mustipher will need to step up in Nolen's absence against a formidable Buccaneers offense.

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The Cardinals' season has been marred by injuries and underperformance, leading to criticism from fans and analysts alike. Former Cardinals All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu suggested that the team should consider trading Kyler Murray to the Miami Dolphins, reflecting the growing frustration over the team's direction. The Cardinals were initially viewed as potential playoff contenders, but their chances have significantly diminished, with six of their eight losses coming by single digits.

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As the Cardinals prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who may start backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, the team will need to adapt quickly to Nolen's absence. The matchup presents an opportunity for Arizona to end its losing streak, but the challenges posed by injuries and a struggling roster remain significant hurdles.

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