The Arizona Cardinals saw the debut of rookie defensive lineman Walter Nolen III in their recent win over the Dallas Cowboys. Nolen, who was selected in the first round, made an immediate impact with four tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, and a pass deflection. He played 37 out of 67 defensive snaps despite not having played since his final college game and missing most of training camp due to a calf injury.
Nolen commented on his performance after the game: “I’m already on to Seattle,” he said. “I can’t wait to get to next week and compete.”
Veteran Calais Campbell also had a notable performance, playing a season-high 38 snaps and recording two sacks late in the game. Campbell acknowledged his surprise at still having energy late in the contest.
With Nolen active, veteran Bilal Nichols was inactive for the game. Darius Robinson started but saw reduced playing time with 24 snaps, while Dante Stills played only 18 snaps—his lowest this season.
Rookie cornerback Denzel Burke took on more responsibility after Max Melton left with a concussion. Burke finished with 39 snaps and contributed with a key fourth-down pass breakup against CeeDee Lamb as well as an interception late in the game. Rookie linebacker Cody Simon stepped up following Mack Wilson Sr.’s injury, playing 20 snaps and forcing a crucial fourth-quarter fumble despite being ill; Simon had previously appeared on defense just three times all season.
Defensive end Josh Sweat delivered eight pressures and two sacks over 45 snaps—the most he’s played since Week 1.
On offense, running backs Bam Knight (38 snaps) and Emari Demercado (27 snaps) both set season highs for playing time. Michael Carter did not appear on offense during the game.
Kelvin Beachum also saw increased action as a tight end substitute, taking part in 24 plays—a significant workload for an offensive lineman used outside his usual position.
