Campbell Brings Experience and Leadership to Falcons’ Young Roster
The Atlanta Falcons have continued to add to their roster this off-season, with the latest addition being six-time Pro Bowl defensive end Calais Campbell. The 36-year-old has signed a one-year deal with the team, bringing valuable experience and leadership to the young roster.
Campbell spent the last three seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, where he recorded 5.5 sacks, 36 tackles, and two forced fumbles in 14 games last season. He played an integral role in helping the Ravens finish third in the NFL in scoring defense and run defense in 2022.
A Proven Track Record of Success
Campbell has spent nine seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, where he was a two-time Pro Bowler and helped lead the team to three division titles. He also received All-Pro honors in 2017 after recording 14.5 sacks with the Jacksonville Jaguars, helping them get within a game of the Super Bowl.
With 99 career sacks, 809 tackles (165 for loss), 16 forced fumbles, and 12 fumble recoveries in 227 career regular season games, Campbell’s track record is proven in the league. He enters the 2023 season with one sack away from reaching a milestone of 100 career sacks.
Falcons’ Active Off-season in Free Agency
The Falcons have been very active in free agency, signing a total of eleven players since March 15th. Alongside Campbell, they added safety Jessie Bates III from Cincinnati Bengals, defensive tackle David Onyemata from New Orleans Saints and linebacker Kaden Elliss from Las Vegas Raiders.
Coach Arthur Smith has made it clear that he wanted to make significant additions to his team’s defensive front. Campbell’s presence is the most significant addition and would have ranked second on the Falcons’ team in sacks last season.
Lions Interested in Campbell as Well
Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell confirmed that they were also interested in signing Calais Campbell this free agency. The Lions were in need of an upgrade for the defensive tackle position, and Campbell could have been an interesting fit due to his veteran leadership and high level of play.
However, Campbell was also pursued by other teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New York Jets. Ultimately he chose to sign with the Falcons over other teams closer to contending for a championship.
Veteran Leadership and High Level of Play
Campbell is recognized as one of the classiest players in the league, receiving the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award after this season. His veteran leadership and high level of play will be invaluable for a young Falcons roster. Head coach Arthur Smith is optimistic that Campbell will be an excellent addition on and off the field.
In conclusion, the Atlanta Falcons have made another significant addition to their roster by signing Calais Campbell. The 36-year-old brings valuable experience and leadership to the team’s young roster while also having a proven track record of success in the league. It remains to be seen how much of an impact he has in his first year with the team, but his presence alone will be invaluable for a Falcons team looking to bounce back from a 7-10 record last season.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
