PHX Reporter

Calais Campbell has returned to the Arizona Cardinals, signing a one-year contract after playing eight seasons with other teams. The defensive lineman, once a staple of the Cardinals' defense, expressed gratitude to owner Michael Bidwill for the opportunity to rejoin the team. "I love this game so much, I wake up and have to pinch myself, 'Is this real?'" Campbell remarked. "I still get to play football."

Campbell had ruled out the idea of returning until the 2024 trade deadline, when the Cardinals showed interest in acquiring him. Though he chose to remain with Miami at that time, the thought of returning to Arizona lingered. "It got in my head, 'It would be kind of cool to go back to Arizona,'" Campbell admitted.

Despite turning 39 in September, Campbell attracted attention as a free agent. Much of his family still lives in the Phoenix area from his initial tenure with the Cardinals, a factor that likely influenced his decision. Over the past few years, Campbell played in Jacksonville, Baltimore, Atlanta, and Miami, continuing to perform at a high level. "I am shocked I am still playing too," he acknowledged.

Campbell had a productive season in Miami, contributing five sacks and excelling in run defense. The Cardinals' defensive line, which includes Dalvin Tomlinson, Darius Robinson, Dante Stills, Justin Jones, Bilal Nichols, and L.J. Collier, is seen as a good fit for him. "I feel like I can change the ballgame. I just can't play 75 plays a game," he stated, noting he can deliver "35 quality plays."

Beyond his on-field performance, Campbell is known for his leadership qualities. "They know I come with a lot of leadership capabilities and prestige that young guys respect," he said. Campbell, a past winner of the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year award, brings a wealth of experience to mentor teammates like Robinson and Stills.

While this season with the Cardinals could mark the end of Campbell's playing days, he has not made a final decision. He thought 2024 might have been his last, but his passion for the game endures. "I love the game so much and I'm still good at it, so it's like, why not?" he said. As for his iconic No. 93 jersey, currently worn by Justin Jones, Campbell has yet to discuss it with his teammate.

Campbell is preparing to re-integrate into the team, with voluntary workouts commencing April 22. Despite potential changes in jersey numbers and locker arrangements, Campbell feels reassured by his return to familiar surroundings. "It feels like home," he concluded.