Player rivalries can be as captivating as any aspect of the NFL. Think of Mike Evans and Marshon Lattimore, Andre Johnson and Courtland Finnegan, or Terrell Suggs and Tom Brady. A special hatred can brew between players who consistently match up against each other in big moments.
We may have a new rivalry in the NFC West.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals selected defensive lineman Walter Nolen with the 16th pick. Just two picks later, the Seattle Seahawks took interior offensive lineman Grey Zabel. The two players are set to face off twice each year for the foreseeable future.
Walter Nolen could dominate Grey Zabel twice each season
Walter Nolen has made a name for himself as a physically dominant defensive lineman. He is able to overpower opposing blockers in jaw-dropping fashion, often blowing plays up in the backfield. He wins with a low pad level and unmatched strength and explosiveness.
That's bad news for Seattle Seahawks rookie Grey Zabel.
Zabel, the former North Dakota State offensive tackle, is expected to be moved inside to guard or center in the NFL. In college, Zabel showed a strong anchor and impressive hand usage. He rarely lost leverage and consistently held his own against defenders.
He never matched up with athletes like Walter Nolen, though.
Walter Nolen was one of the top prospects in the nation coming out of high school. Even before he developed the footwork and consistency to fulfill his potential, he was able to dominate. Grey Zabel, on the other hand, was an unranked prospect and received no major offers.
Of course, unnoticed high school prospects can develop into quality NFL players. But these are just different classes of athletes. Walter Nolen, at his best, should be able to consistently overpower Grey Zabel when they line up against each other.
This matchup will be crucial to the success of both the Arizona Cardinals and the Seattle Seahawks. Games are often won or lost in the trenches. If Walter Nolen can consistently beat Grey Zabel in their matchups, the Cardinals could rule over the Seahawks for years to come.