Campbell Brings Experienced Leadership to Young Falcons Roster
Calais Campbell, the six-time Pro Bowl defensive end and former Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, has signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons for the 2023 season. The team’s decision to sign the 36-year-old veteran shows their commitment to upgrading their defense and making a serious playoff run next season.
Campbell brings experience and leadership to the Falcons’ young roster, which is filled with promising players but lacks veteran presence. The team has been active in free agency, signing 11 players since March 15, including former Bengals safety Jessie Bates III, former Raiders wideout Mack Hollins, former Patriots tight end Jonnu Smith, and former Washington quarterback Taylor Heinicke.
Ravens’ Loss Is Falcons’ Gain
Campbell played for the Baltimore Ravens for the past three seasons, where he was a Pro Bowler during his first season and helped them finish third in the NFL in scoring defense and run defense in 2022. His departure from Baltimore is seen as a significant loss for the Ravens but a major gain for the Falcons.
During his career, Campbell has played for the Arizona Cardinals and Jacksonville Jaguars before joining the Ravens. He reached the Super Bowl with the Cardinals in 2008 and helped them win three division titles over that span. He was also a two-time Pro Bowler with the Cardinals and received All-Pro honors in 2017 during his time with the Jaguars.
Falcons Aim for Playoff Run with Signings
The Falcons finished with a 7-10 record in the 2022 season and are entering their third season under coach Arthur Smith, who won 14 games during his first two seasons with the club. The team’s aggressive approach to free agency shows their belief in their team, coaches, and desire to win now.
Campbell’s signing with the Falcons suggests that the team is serious about making a playoff run next season. Despite being 36 years old, Campbell is still considered a valuable player and leader in football. He enters the 2023 season with 99 career sacks and over 800 tackles in 227 career regular season games.
Campbell Chooses Falcons Over Other Teams
According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, Campbell chose the Falcons over other teams without hearing everyone’s best pitch. Although the reason for his decision is unknown, Campbell believes that the Falcons will “surprise some people this season.”
The Detroit Lions were one of the teams that showed interest in signing Campbell. Lions coach Dan Campbell confirmed his interest in signing Campbell and expressed that their defensive tackle position needs an upgrade. The Lions could use more veteran leadership on defense, which is something that Campbell could have provided had he chosen to sign with them.
Falcons Make Multiple Defensive Signings
The Falcons have made multiple defensive signings this offseason, including Campbell, to improve their defense. Last season, they allowed the fourth-most points per game in the NFL. Atlanta has signed several returning players as well as some new defensive players like Fabian Moreau and Malik Jackson.
In addition to upgrading their defense, the Falcons named second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder as the starter for the upcoming season. This decision further shows their belief in their team and coaches as they pursue a serious playoff run for the 2023 NFL season.
Overall, Calais Campbell’s signing with the Atlanta Falcons for the 2023 season is a significant move for both him and the team. His experienced leadership will be essential for helping to mentor young players on defense while also contributing to on-field production. With the addition of several other free agents this offseason, the Falcons are poised for a strong showing next year.
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