The Atlanta Falcons have added a veteran presence and significant pass-rushing experience in former Baltimore Ravens defensive end, Calais Campbell. The Falcons are hoping that Campbell can help upgrade their defensive line and improve their performance next season. According to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Campbell has signed a one-year deal with the Falcons.
Falcons’ Focus on Defense
The Atlanta Falcons have been focused on upgrading their defense this offseason, particularly on the defensive front. After missing the playoffs last season, Falcons Coach Arthur Smith expressed the need to add more players to that side of the ball. The team has already made several additions to their defense, such as changing their defensive coordinator and signing free agents Jessie Bates III, David Onyemata, and Kaden Elliss.
Campbell’s Arrival
With the addition of Campbell, the Falcons get a player who brings veteran leadership and experience to the defensive line room. His 5.5 sacks last season would have ranked second on the Falcons in 2022 and would have led the team in 2021. This means that Campbell will be a vital asset in solidifying the Falcons’ defense, which struggled in creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks last season.
Past Achievements
Campbell is a former Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award recipient and has also earned recognition for his sportsmanship both on and off the field. His efforts were acknowledged with the Art Rooney Sportsmanship award. Despite his age, he is still regarded as an effective player, evident from his 809 tackles and 237 quarterback hits since joining NFL teams since 2008.
Pursued by Multiple Teams
Campbell’s play attracted attention from several other teams around the league besides the Falcons. Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell confirmed interest in Calais in free agency but is now left searching for alternative options. Other teams that pursued Campbell include the Jets, Bills, and Jaguars. Given his age, choosing the Falcons over some of the other teams that have a better chance of competing for a championship may have surprised many.
Response from Fans
Many fans of the Falcons have responded positively to Campbell’s signing. They recognize that he brings a veteran presence to a relatively young defense and possesses valuable experience playing with successful teams in the past like the Arizona Cardinals and Jacksonville Jaguars. The Falcons’ pass-rushing group includes other talented players like Grady Jarrett, Ta’Quon Graham, Lorenzo Carter, Arnold Ebiketie, and DeAngelo Malone, but Campbell can provide another much-needed component to this group.
In conclusion, the addition of Calais Campbell is a significant move by the Atlanta Falcons as they aim to improve their defense and make a run at the playoffs next season. His experience in playing for successful franchises adds more depth to their defensive line room. Fans will be eagerly anticipating how he performs alongside his new teammates when the 2023 NFL season starts.
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