Cardinals place Williams, Nolen on IR, ending their seasons due to injuries

The Arizona Cardinals will place cornerback Garrett Williams and rookie defensive lineman Walter Nolen III on injured reserve, sidelining both players for the remainder of the season.

Why it matters: The loss of Williams and Nolen significantly impacts the Cardinals’ defense in the final stretch of the season as they prepare for a rebuilding phase.

• Williams, who had already missed five games earlier in the season due to a knee injury, contributes depth to a secondary that has faced challenges throughout the year.
• Nolen, the team's 2025 first-round pick (No. 16 overall), was expected to be a cornerstone of the defensive line but has struggled with injuries since entering the league.

What’s new: Both players suffered injuries during the same game against the Atlanta Falcons, with Williams sustaining an Achilles injury and Nolen injuring his left knee.

• Coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed that further testing would provide more details on their conditions.
• The Cardinals will now have to adjust their defensive schemes without two key contributors.

By the numbers: Nolen's rookie season has been notably limited due to injuries.

• After sitting out the first seven games of the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, he participated in only six games this season, missing two additional contests due to knee issues.

Yes, but: While these injuries are setbacks for the Cardinals, there is potential for development among the remaining players on the roster.

• Gannon expressed optimism about Nolen’s future impact on the team, stating, “He has shown the ability to be a difference-maker on our defense.”
• This sentiment highlights the team's commitment to nurturing talent amid adversity.

What’s next: The Cardinals must reassess their defensive lineup and strategize for the remaining games.

• With playoff aspirations dimming, the focus may shift toward evaluating younger players and preparing for the next season.

The bottom line: The injuries to Garrett Williams and Walter Nolen III underscore the challenges facing the Cardinals in a difficult season, highlighting the need for depth and resilience in their defensive unit moving forward.