Calais Campbell, the towering 6-foot-8 defensive lineman, recently held his re-introductory press conference with the Arizona Cardinals, marking the beginning of his 18th NFL season. At 38 years old, should he make the Cardinals roster, he’ll be the oldest player on it. His experience will be important as the young team tries to build on its first foundation. On April 1, Campbell signed an official one-year deal to the organization. In particular, he is thrilled to be coming back to the franchise with which he started his professional career.
Fresh off his press conference, Campbell looked back on his playing career, and the hopes that fueled him all these years. Initially aiming for a 15-year career, inspired by Hall of Famers he studied, Campbell later adjusted his projections to around 10 to 12 years. Though few could have predicted the long career he ended up having, even he was surprised that he was still playing in the league at that point.
“I mean it’s kind of been who I am anyway,” he stated, acknowledging the journey that has kept him in the game.
In particular, Campbell’s experience and leadership will be the stabilizing force so key during these turbulent times. He’ll help mentor first-round draft pick Walter Nolen III as they both occupy the defensive line room. The younger players have no doubt already started to get a sense of Campbell’s influence on their development. Second-year defensive lineman Darius Robinson shared his appreciation for what the veteran has brought to the unit.
He’s been great. That’s legendary. Hoping to soak up as much as possible from him, Robinson noted. “It just shows the standard of what I envision for myself.”
At that press conference, Campbell shared his vision of how he wants the program to perform this coming season. Kind of the same thing, he said he felt great after 35 plays in the game. He acknowledged that by the time he’s approaching the 45-play threshold, he begins to get “washed out.” Even so, he is optimistic about his chances to make a real difference when it counts.
“I know that for me to be effective for a full year, I got to be smart,” Campbell explained, emphasizing the importance of managing his workload.
Campbell’s approach to the game reflects his commitment to maintaining a high standard for both himself and those around him. Coach Jonathan Gannon was excited about Campbell’s wealth of experience and explained how much it will help the rest of the team.
You see that with how he talks, Gannon said. “He’s got a really interesting viewpoint of 18 years playing. It’s been awesome. He’s going to be phenomenal for our whole team, our defense and D-line room.
As Campbell prepares for his return, he acknowledges that being a veteran means more than just playing. It involves setting an example for younger athletes. He could use those strong leadership qualities on a team. Young players defer to him, and it’s a sentiment of his that he’s particularly proud of.
“I don’t think I can go somewhere and not be that,” Campbell remarked about his role.
Campbell meets the demands of aging, even in a grueling sport like snowboarding, with no-nonsense toughness. His commitment to pushing the team forward every day continues. He understands the importance of his return and is looking forward to re-joining the Cardinals.
It was a pretty natural fit.” He added that he’s excited about his opportunity to help guide the direction of the franchise, especially with all that promise ahead.
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