Pro Football Focus has called its shot for 2026, naming defensive tackle Walter Nolen as the player poised for a massive breakout season with the Arizona Cardinals. This isn’t just some casual prediction from Gordon McGuinness; it’s a declaration for a guy who’s been flashing serious potential.
Rookie Flashes and Serious Numbers
Nolen wasn’t exactly invisible in his rookie year back in 2025. McGuinness from PFF pointed out the “encouraging flashes,” even if the dude only played a mere 169 snaps. Think about that: 169 snaps is barely scratching the surface, yet he still racked up 15 pressures on just 99 pass-rushing snaps! That’s efficiency, man. He also earned an 80.1 PFF pass-rush grade, which is straight-up legit for a rookie with limited play. And get this: in three of the four games where he actually saw 15 or more pass-rushing snaps, he delivered at least three pressures. That tells you what he can do when he’s actually on the field and given the chance.
From Top Draft Pick to Defensive Anchor?
This isn’t some random pick by PFF either. Nolen was once considered a top-three pick in the 2025 draft *before* his final college season. That kind of pedigree doesn’t just evaporate. Scouts and analysts were absolutely sold on his “elite flashes” way back then. McGuinness nails the biggest question mark for 2026, though: “The key for Nolen will be staying on the field, but if he can, there’s a chance he emerges as Arizona’s best defensive player by the end of the season.” That’s not small potatoes! Going from limited snaps to potentially the best defensive player on the squad by year’s end? That’s the kind of leap that changes a whole unit. Remember Michael Wilson in 2025? He showed out then, and Nolen is set up to be that guy for 2026.
So, the stage is set. Can Nolen stay healthy? Can he put all those elite flashes and incredible pass-rushing efficiency together for a full season? If he does, PFF’s bold prediction will look less like a gamble and more like a sure thing. Keep an eye on this dude, because 2026 could be his year to absolutely explode.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Revenge of the Birds.
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