Veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell could be exactly what the injury-plagued Detroit Lions need.
Recent reports suggest there’s a possibility the Miami Dolphins may release the accomplished 38-year-old defender if they are eliminated from playoff contention. Such a move would allow Campbell to join a contending team, such as the Lions.
Campbell would be an ideal replacement for Alim McNeill, who recently suffered a torn ACL, leaving a void in Detroit’s defensive interior.
The well-traveled defender, who has played for the Cardinals, Jaguars, Ravens, Falcons, and Dolphins during his 17-year NFL career, brings a wealth of experience to any defense. More importantly, Campbell has maintained a high level of productivity, which would be a boon for postseason-bound teams like Detroit.
In 14 games with Miami this season, Campbell has recorded 43 total tackles, including 10 for loss, along with nine quarterback hits, four sacks, five passes defensed, one forced fumble, and 32 total pressures. For his efforts, Pro Football Focus has awarded him an 83.4 overall grade, the seventh-highest among 214 qualified defensive tackles. His 86.6 run-defense grade is the highest at his position.
Campbell would undoubtedly be a significant addition for the Lions. On-air personality Mike Valenti of 97.1 The Ticket echoed this sentiment during Thursday’s episode of The Valenti Show with Rico.
“Everybody loves Calais Campbell in this league. He is made to be a Lion,” Valenti said. “You get Calais Campbell, we may put this thing back on the Super Bowl tracks.”
However, there’s one major obstacle: if Campbell is released, he’ll be subject to waivers. Given Detroit’s 12-2 record, the Lions sit near the bottom of the waiver order, making it unlikely they could claim him. Even if Campbell goes unclaimed, Detroit would still face fierce competition for his services.
All things considered, while Campbell would be a dream acquisition for the Lions, it’s unlikely he’ll land in Detroit.
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