Overview
- Nolen exited the Cardinals’ padded practice on Friday, July 31, walking gingerly and leaving the field with trainers after an awkward contact that appeared to affect his left knee.
- Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur said checks on the knee “looked good,” and Nolen returned to practice on Sunday, Aug. 2, telling reporters “I’m great.”
- The incident draws concern because Nolen missed most of his rookie year with a calf issue and a December meniscus tear that required surgery, limiting him to six games in 2025.
- Arizona is monitoring Nolen closely and has discussed depth moves as a precaution while Garrett Williams progresses toward a possible Week 1 return and Josh Sweat remains on the PUP list with no timeline.
- Nolen’s availability matters for the Cardinals’ ability to stop the run, and his health over the rest of camp will influence defensive roles, preseason usage, and any roster insurance the team pursues.