The Miami Dolphins have bolstered their defensive lineup by agreeing to terms with veteran defensive end Calais Campbell, as confirmed by a source to ESPN. Campbell, aged 37, brings a wealth of experience and a strong recent performance record, having rejuvenated his career with the Atlanta Falcons last season.
In 2023, he played in every game for the first time since 2019, achieving 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 17 quarterback hits, and ten tackles for loss, marking his best season in years.
Campbell’s addition is particularly significant for the Dolphins, who are looking to fortify their pass rush following setbacks to outside linebackers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb. Both players were highly effective before injuries sidelined them towards the end of last season.
While their return to play in 2024 is anticipated, the team has refrained from specifying a timeline, and they did not participate in recent off-season activities.
Miami’s strategy to enhance their defensive front also included signing Shaq Barrett earlier in the year and drafting rookies Chop Robinson and Mo Kamara in the first and fifth rounds, respectively. These moves underscore the Dolphins’ commitment to building a formidable defensive unit capable of disrupting opposing offenses.
Campbell’s reunion with Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Edwards adds another layer of familiarity and strategic alignment. Edwards previously coached Campbell during his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens, where Campbell played in 2021 and 2022. Their prior collaboration could enhance Campbell’s integration into the Dolphins’ defensive schemes.
With over 100 career sacks and numerous accolades, including a Walter Payton Man of the Year award and multiple Pro Bowl appearances, Campbell brings not only on-field productivity but also leadership and veteran presence to Miami’s locker room.
His extensive experience, which spans 244 games and includes a variety of defensive statistics, positions him as a valuable asset as the Dolphins look to make strides in the competitive AFC landscape.
According to NFL Network, the agreement between Campbell and the Dolphins signifies a proactive step towards solidifying their defensive core ahead of the upcoming season. This move is expected to contribute significantly to the Dolphins’ aspirations of becoming a formidable force in the NFL.