Chemistry can make or break a team. If a quarterback doesn’t get along with a wide receiver, then their numbers will falter. And it creates a domino effect: fewer targets mean fewer receptions; fewer receptions mean fewer touchdowns which means fewer wins. Then you have a defense wondering why they’re working hard when the offense doesn’t show up—and next thing you know, you’re finishing last in the division.
Getting everyone aligned is extremely important when you’re new to the team. For Walter Nolen III, fitting in hasn’t been a problem. In between the OTAs and mini-camps, he’s been meshing with the Cardinals’ organization and the team’s general vibe.
And what has helped the Ole Miss alum adjust to the new environment? His fellow rookies, who are now his brothers in arms.
Will Johnson (0) during minicamp at the teams Arizona Cardinals Training Facility.
Will Johnson (0) during minicamp at the teams Arizona Cardinals Training Facility. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Walter Nolen III says Arizona Cardinals rookies are a ‘close-knit’ family
“It’s been fun,” Nolen told reporters on June 16, when discussing these initial weeks in the NFL. “Just taking in every day, one day at a time and enjoying the process, bro.”
When asked how to describe the 2025 Arizona Cardinals rookie class, Walter Nolen III thought about it, before saying: “close-knit.”
It’s been less than two months since the NFL Draft, where the Cardinals recruited a bevy of young talent: Nolen, corner Will Johnson, defensive tackle Jordan Burch, linebacker Cody Simon, corner Denzel Burke, offensive guard Hayden Conner, and safety Kitan Crawford.
Elijah Simmons
Elijah Simmons at the Arizona Cardinals OTA Offseason Workouts | Bruce Yeung/GettyImages
The Cardinals also bolstered their ranks after the draft, recruiting offensive lineman Jerimiah Byers, tight end Oscar Cardenas, offensive lineman Josh Fryar, wide receiver Bryson Green, offensive lineman Valentin Senn and defensive lineman Elijah Simmons
“I feel like we're kind of already a family, even though we’re just getting started,” remarked Nolen about the freshmen Cardinals. “I can’t wait to see the progress that we got.”
Nolen said that he has bonded with Will Johnson, Jeremiah Byers and Jordan Burch. They’re the “three people I’ve talked to the most, for real,” said Nolen.
The Offense Is ‘Gelling,’ According To Nolen
While Nolen has focused on finding his place in the Arizona Cardinals’ defense, the offense has caught his eye. His first impression of quarterback Kyler Murray?
“He is an athlete,” said Nolen. “He’s going to make plays when they’re supposed to be made. I can’t wait to see him this season.
The whole offense in general, I feel like they’ve been gelling pretty well this offseason,” added Nolen. “I just can’t wait to get to [training] camp and see things rolling.”
Dalvin Tomlinson
Dalvin Tomlinson at the Arizona Cardinals Mandatory Minicamp | Bruce Yeung/GettyImages
Walter has also been under the learning tree during these early weeks, taking guidance from defense veterans like Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson. He’s also honing his skills under the leadership of defensive line coach Winston “DeBo” DeLattiboudere.
“I feel like I can help in any way possible, honestly,” said Nolen. “But whatever the coaches got planned for me to do for them, I’m going to do it to the best of my abilities.”
“It’s been fun, back out there playing football,” he told reporters. “I can’t wait until we put the equipment on, so it gets real.”