After losing several starters in free agency this offseason, the Miami Dolphins continue to reload on defense as they prepare for the upcoming season.
According to NFL Network, the Dolphins are expected to sign veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell to a deal. Despite being 37 years old, Campbell proved that he still has plenty left in the tank last season with the Atlanta Falcons.
Miami Dolphins Bolster Defensive Line, Expected To Sign Calais Campbell
Following the departure of rising star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins in free agency, Miami needed to add depth along the team’s defensive line. The Dolphins reportedly landed the top defensive lineman remaining on the free agent market on Thursday night.
After playing in college at the University of Miami, Campbell will potentially finish his career in the same city where his journey essentially started. Campbell will also be reunited with a familiar face, as he spent two years together with Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver during their time with the Baltimore Ravens in 2021 and 2022.
Weaver served as Campbell’s defensive line coach in Baltimore, therefore, Weaver will surely know how to use the veteran in Miami’s new-look defensive scheme. Campbell recorded seven sacks and 66 total pressures during his two seasons working under Weaver.
Pro Football Network Miami Dolphins insider Adam H. Beasley discussed Campbell’s potential fit with the Dolphins on X (formerly Twitter):
Calais Campbell instant reax pic.twitter.com/C6R7KGkaX2
— Adam Beasley (@AdamHBeasley) June 14, 2024
“Certainly, he’s going to be part of that defensive line rotation,” Beasley said. “Will help them fill the loss of Christian Wilkins, who they lost in free agency. Dolphins have a ton of veterans now on the interior.”
“But I also see him as a potential hedge,” Beasley continued, “in case Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb are not available for Week 1.”
Miami Dolphins’ Defensive Line Depth Chart
As Beasley mentioned, the Dolphins have a ton of veterans along the interior of the defensive line following the addition of Campbell. Yet, Campbell’s experience and versatility will allow Weaver to use multiple looks along Miami’s defensive front.
While Phillips and Chubb are clearly the top edge rushers for Miami’s defensive front, the team also added Chop Robinson and Mohamed Kamara in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Dolphins also signed veteran edge rusher Shaquil Barrett in free agency earlier this offseason.
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Campbell’s versatility essentially allows him to play both on the edge and along the interior of Miami’s defense. He’ll be joined by Zach Sieler, Teair Tart, Neville Gallimore, Benito Jones, and Da’Shawn Hand as interior defensive line options for the Dolphins in 2024.
Miami landing Campbell at this point in this offseason could prove to be a steal, given his likely inexpensive contract. After recording seven sacks with the Falcons last season, Campbell hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down, despite his age.