Veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft
Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell continue to play actively in the NFL, maintaining their status as seasoned veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft class.
Joe Flacco: The Comeback Kid
Joe Flacco has made a remarkable resurgence, earning the title of the 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Currently leading as the quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, Flacco's return to form is a testament to his enduring skill and determination.
Josh Johnson: A Steady Hand in Baltimore
Josh Johnson, another enduring figure from the 2008 draft, holds the quarterback position for the Baltimore Ravens. Over the course of his career, Johnson has brought his talents to multiple teams, showcasing resilience and adaptability in a league known for its competitive nature.
Calais Campbell: A Veteran for the Dolphins
Calais Campbell continues to leave his mark on the NFL as a defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins. With six Pro Bowl appearances and inclusion in the 2010s All-Decade team, Campbell's career is illustrious. His 2023 season was particularly productive with the Atlanta Falcons, highlighting his continued prowess on the field.
During the 2023 season, Campbell started all 17 games, recording 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 42 quarterback pressures. This level of performance underscores his enduring capability and dominance in defensive play.
The Decision to Continue
Campbell contemplated retirement but ultimately decided to continue playing, driven by his love for the game. A crucial conversation with his family influenced this decision, reinforcing his commitment to the sport despite the physical demands and his evolving approach to the game due to age. Campbell emphasizes the importance of both strength and finesse in his current playing style.
A New Opportunity with the Dolphins
Joining the Miami Dolphins provides Campbell with a fresh opportunity to chase a Super Bowl ring, a goal he has not yet achieved. The Dolphins' roster boasts six Pro Bowl players, and the addition of new talent further strengthens the team's chances. Campbell sees a promising future with the Dolphins, valuing team chemistry as a cornerstone for success.
Reuniting with Anthony Weaver
One significant factor in Campbell's decision to join the Dolphins was the opportunity to reunite with coach Anthony Weaver, who served as Campbell’s position coach for two seasons. Campbell holds Weaver in high regard, acknowledging his understanding of Campbell's capabilities and his insightful coaching approach. This established rapport between player and coach bodes well for Campbell's integration into the team.
The Pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy
Calais Campbell's primary goal remains winning the Super Bowl, a feat that has eluded him throughout his career. He came close when he played in Super Bowl XLIII with the Arizona Cardinals, but victory slipped away. Campbell's determination to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy fuels his continued dedication to the game.
Reflecting on his decision to keep playing, Campbell stated, "I thought about [retiring]. It really came down to just with the family, talking to the wife and kids. Because physically, and the desire and love for the game, has never left, not even a little bit.” He added, “I have to learn how to use other parts of my game, bring a lot more of the strength part but I still have enough finesse and everything else, I got a full box of little tools. But what keeps me going though is a love for the game.”
He expresses optimism about the Dolphins' capabilities, saying, "I feel like there's a really good opportunity here. Very talented team all over the field, both offense and defense. When you go through the roster and who you have, I just see so many people that I feel like we can really play together and really build that team chemistry you need and be a force to reckon with.”
Campbell's trust in Weaver is evident: "The main reason I wanted to come here was because I really believe in who Anthony Weaver is as a coach and our relationship. We talked a lot during the process, and he knows what I'm capable of doing. He understands my mind and how I see the game, and he trusts it.”
As he embarks on this new chapter with the Miami Dolphins, Calais Campbell remains focused on his ultimate goal: capturing that elusive Super Bowl title.