Cardinals Defensive End Walter Nolen’s Girlfriend, Tyler Nelson, Unveils the Name of the WAG Group Chat Exclusive to PEOPLE
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Tyler Nelson, the 23-year-old partner of Arizona Cardinals’ defensive end Walter Nolen, has offered an exclusive insight into the captivating world of NFL WAGs by revealing the iconic name of their cherished 30-person group chat. In an interview with PEOPLE, Nelson shared her experiences transitioning into the role of a WAG, shedding light on the glamorous yet supportive camaraderie within the group.
Having hastily relocated to Arizona with little notice when Nolen was drafted by the Cardinals last spring, Nelson found solace in the warm embrace of the team’s other wives and girlfriends. As she journeyed alongside Nolen on the team’s chartered jet and witnessed her social media presence soar, she confessed to PEOPLE, “It really didn’t feel real. We kept saying it to each other, it felt like someone had picked us up and put us on a movie set.”
Navigating through Nolen’s preparations for his NFL debut, Nelson forged deep connections with the other WAGs who swiftly became her closest confidantes during this significant life transition. Recalling the heart-warming reception, Nelson expressed, “They just took me under their wing. They’re super duper nice.”
The prospect of Nolen’s enduring tenure with the Cardinals, given his early drafting, has cemented Nelson’s bond with her fellow WAGs, foreseeing shared experiences and milestones in the years to come. The solidarity among the women extends beyond game days, where the pre-match festivities kick off at a fellow WAG’s residence, encompassing drinks, makeup sessions, and a communal journey to State Farm Stadium in a Sprinter van.
For seamless coordination and banter, the vibrant group relies on a bespoke group chat ingeniously named ‘Bird Gang Baes’, curated by Nelson herself. With over 32 members engaging in lively conversations, the chat serves as a hub for camaraderie and event planning within the WAG community.
Nelson and Nolen often jest about their initial encounter being akin to ‘camping’, when in reality, they crossed paths at a Houston club named KAMP as Nelson celebrated her graduation from LSU. Reflecting on her swift transition into Nolen’s world, Nelson shared, “People ask what I did for work before I met my partner. Not much — I graduated the day before I met him, so I wasn’t even able to get pushed into the workforce.”
Their journey together continued as they ventured to Mississippi, where Nolen pursued his college education at Ole Miss before making a leap into the 2025 NFL Draft that spring. The pivotal draft day marked a poignant moment shared with family and friends, culminating in Nolen’s signing with the Cardinals amidst tears of joy and elation.
As they embarked on a new chapter in Arizona, courtesy of the team’s arrangements, Nelson and Nolen were swiftly enveloped by the thrilling whirlwind of NFL life. The tale of their journey encapsulates resilience, friendship, and unwavering support amidst the glitz and glamour of professional football.
This heartfelt narrative shared by Tyler Nelson offers an intimate glimpse into the tight-knit WAG community, highlighting the essence of camaraderie and shared experiences that underpin their vibrant world within the NFL fraternity.
Luke Chinman is a dedicated writer at PEOPLE, offering captivating insights into the lives of individuals like Tyler Nelson, as they navigate the intricacies of fame and belonging within the NFL ecosystem. His commitment to authentic storytelling resonates through his distinctive portrayal of personal journeys within the realm of sports and entertainment.
As Nelson continues to enrich her narrative within the Cardinals’ WAG circle, her revelations serve as a testament to the resilience and unity forged amidst the backdrop of professional sports. The journey of Tyler Nelson and Walter Nolen stands as a beacon of inspiration, embodying the spirit of togetherness and support that defines the captivating world of NFL WAGs.