The Arizona Cardinals are embracing a new era in the 2026 season, moving on from the failed Kyler Murray-Jonathan Gannon pairing. They reached a new deal with projected Week 1 starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett, hoping things will be different this time around under new head coach Mike LaFleur.
Eventually, the Cardinals will need to find that long-term answer at quarterback, but with how many weapons they have on that side of the ball, it's clear they'll eventually be just fine. However, for this team to reach its ceiling, it must find a better balance on defense.
Arizona surrendered the fourth most points per game (28.7) in the league last season, making the steep draft investment in running back Jeremiyah Love a serious risk considering the opportunity cost.
But part of the Cardinals' plan on the defensive side of things is to simply get healthier with time, particularly when it comes to their lineman.
Walter Nolen III could be ready to breakout in 2026
Darius Robinson was the No. 27 overall pick in 2024, yet has only totaled 21 games played so far in his career. Meanwhile, last year's No. 16 overall investment, Walter Nolen III, was limited to just six games as a rookie. That is going to give Arizona's defensive front a huge boost without even having to make another move this offseason.
There are already reports coming out of training camp that Nolen especially looks explosive, which is a promising sign for Arizona heading into 2026.
There's so much spotlight on the Cardinals' offensive weapons -- whether Love can justify the No. 3 overall pick, if Marvin Harrison Jr. can finally break out of his slump relative to sky-high expectations, and what Michael Wilson will look like in Mike LaFleur's system. But it could be Nolen who is the breakout candidate ready to emerge as a key piece in this Cardinals rebuild.
That shouldn't come as a surprise considering the first-round draft pedigree, but it's arguably one of the most important storylines for Arizona this season. They have some individual defensive talent, but most of it comes in the form of veterans who could even become potential trade candidates.
Josh Sweat remains in trade rumors, while safety Budda Baker was even predicted by Bleacher Report to be among the next wave of stars to request a trade. They need the 22-year-old Nolen to become one of the new faces of this defense, especially since he's a far better fit for where the Cardinals are at in their timeline.
Early indications out of camp are promising, so let's hope he's able to stay healthy and carry it into the season.
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