Calais Campbell announced on Apr. 30 that he will continue his National Football League career with the Baltimore Ravens after playing last season for the Arizona Cardinals. The veteran defensive lineman, who will turn 40 before the start of the season, is set to break the NFL record for games played by a defensive lineman barring any unforeseen circumstances.
Campbell’s decision marks another chapter in his long career and reflects his ongoing ability to contribute at a high level. His move comes after a year in which he started all 17 games for Arizona, recording six and a half sacks, nine tackles for loss, and two blocked kicks. “I’ve always tried to play well enough where I have a choice,” Campbell said late last season.
Cardinals General Manager Monti Ossenfort said Campbell had “earned the right” to consider his options following his performance this past year. Campbell was recognized as one of the most popular players in franchise history and was considered their best defensive lineman last season.
Reflecting on his longevity, Campbell said in December, “The first thing I feel is a badge of honor, that I can still do it, I can still hang with the young guys… And then I feel old. I feel old.” He added about returning to Arizona: “When you get drafted to a team and you are part of an organization and a community, football is a beautiful game because people get behind you… The whole community is attached to the team. It’s a good feeling to be part of that.”
Campbell has accumulated significant career statistics including 117 sacks, 196 tackles for loss, 18 forced fumbles, three interceptions and three safeties over eighteen seasons. He has also been selected for six Pro Bowls and named All-Pro multiple times.
The Arizona Cardinals are known as one of professional football’s oldest franchises according to their official website. They compete in the NFC West division according to their official website and serve fans across the greater Phoenix area according to their official website. The team hosts home games in Glendale according to their official website and captured an NFC championship in 2008 according to their official website.