In a significant roster enhancement, the Miami Dolphins have made a notable addition by signing the towering veteran defensive lineman, Calais Campbell. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-8, the former University of Miami star is poised to bring his extensive experience back to the city where he played his college ball. This development was first reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport.
Campbell’s illustrious NFL career has spanned 16 seasons across five teams, most recently contributing to the Atlanta Falcons. His journey in the league commenced with the Arizona Cardinals, where he was a second-round selection in the 2008 draft, marking the start of a productive nine-season stint. This was followed by three-year tenures with both the Jacksonville Jaguars and Baltimore Ravens.
A compelling factor in Campbell’s move to the Dolphins is his previous collaboration with the team’s new defensive coordinator, Anthony Weaver, during his tenure with the Ravens. There, Campbell was under Weaver’s tutelage when he served as the team’s defensive line coach, adding the role of assistant head coach in 2022. This reunion on the Dolphins signals a strategic enhancement, leveraging Campbell’s rich experience and leadership prowess.
At the age of 37, with his 38th birthday approaching on September 1st, Campbell has demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill. His recent season with the Falcons was notably productive, as he achieved 6.5 sacks, his highest since 2019. This performance clearly indicates that Campbell still possesses significant prowess on the field.
A decorated player, Campbell has earned six Pro Bowl selections and was named to the NFL’s 2010s All-Decade Team. His off-field contributions have also been recognized, as evidenced by his receipt of the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2019.
Campbell’s addition to the Dolphins is expected to address one of the team’s crucial needs on defense—providing a formidable counterpart to Zach Sieler on the defensive line. Miami’s off-season strategy included signing multiple defensive tackles to fill the void left by Christian Wilkins’ departure. Among these additions, Campbell emerges as a potential game-changer for the team.
His remarkable versatility enables him to adapt to various positions across the defensive line, offering Dolphins’ defensive coordinator Weaver a range of strategic options. This acquisition not only enhances the team’s defensive unit but also signifies the Dolphins’ commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.