GLENDALE –The Arizona Cardinals made a big splash in the tail end of NFL free agency with the signing of defensive lineman Calais Campbell. After his nine-year career in Arizona, Campbell became one of the premier defensive tackles in the league, racking up four straight Pro Bowls from 2017-2020.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Since then, Campbell has been a reliable journeyman, bouncing from the Atlanta Falcons to the Miami Dolphins, and now finds his way back to the Cardinals. He’s no longer a bright-eyed 22-year-old rookie Campbell is a seasoned 38-year-old veteran, raising concerns about what he has left to offer.
Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell against the New Orleans Saints at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
What Campbell brings the Cardinals:
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) throws a pass with pressure from Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) during his 2023 debut at State Farm Stadium on Nov. 12, 2023, in Glendale. Syndication: Arizona Republic
In the past three seasons, Campbell has been on three different teams, and with each team, he has recorded 5.0+ sacks. The six-time Pro Bowler showcases that he can dominate regardless of the situation. With the Dolphins in 2024, Campbell recorded 5.0 sacks, which would be tied for the most on the Cardinals. The All-Pro defensive lineman also recorded 12 tackles for loss in Miami, which again would lead Arizona in that category.
Nov 26, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Calais Campbell (93) celebrates after recovering a fumble for a touchdown with defensive tackle Malik Jackson (97) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The Dolphins had the ninth-best rush defense in the NFL, allowing 103.7 rushing yards per game. Campbell was a massive reason for that, as his 6’8 307 pound frame overwhelmed opposing offensive linemen. The Cardinals in the trenches struggled, more notably with its pass rush, but its rush defense was below average, surrendering 126.4 yards per game.
Father time hasn’t gotten to Campbell yet, as even in the twilight of his illustrious career, he’s still an effective player. The Campbell signing will aid the Cardinals in the trenches, fixing both its pass rush and rush defense to bolster the defense even more.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
