Former Cardinals DL Calais Campbell Perfect Reunion Target in Free Agency

The 39-year-old veteran could provide leadership and production for Arizona's defensive line.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:36pm

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The Arizona Cardinals are looking to fill a few gaps on their roster ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, and one potential target is former defensive lineman Calais Campbell. Despite being 39 years old, Campbell had a productive 2025 season with 6.5 sacks and 16 quarterback hits, and his leadership and presence in the locker room could be invaluable for the team as they transition to a new head coach. While there are some questions about whether Campbell wants to play one more season or retire, the Cardinals should make bringing him back a priority.

Why it matters

Campbell's potential return would provide a boost to the Cardinals' defensive line, which has seen some turnover this offseason. His veteran experience and respected voice in the locker room could also help ease the transition to a new head coach. The Cardinals have made a priority of bringing back respected veterans like running back James Conner, and Campbell fits that mold.

The details

Last season, Campbell's 6.5 sacks were second only to outside linebacker Josh Sweat's 12, and his 16 quarterback hits came on just 46% of defensive snaps. Even in a rotational role, his impact would be beneficial for the Cardinals' defensive line. Beyond the on-field production, Campbell's leadership and presence in the locker room would be invaluable as the team adjusts to new head coach Mike LaFleur.

  • In the 2025 season, Campbell had 6.5 sacks and 16 quarterback hits.
  • The Cardinals are looking to fill roster gaps ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Calais Campbell

A 39-year-old veteran defensive lineman who played for the Arizona Cardinals from 2008-2016 and is now a free agent.

Josh Sweat

An outside linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals who had a career-high 12 sacks in 2025.

Baron Browning

A defensive player for the Arizona Cardinals who had 2 sacks in 2025.

Walter Nolen

A defensive player for the Arizona Cardinals who had 2 sacks in 2025.

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, taking over for the first time in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Huge. Those guys are doing a good job affecting the passer. We have some other guys too that are doing a good job. Again, that stat sheet... those guys are showing up. Sometimes they have some freedom and other guys don't. For those guys to impact the game, other guys have to do their job as well. That's how I would say that. I'm pleased with where they're at. I think they're both going to keep doing it, I really do. We need them to.”

— Jonathan Gannon, Former Arizona Cardinals Head Coach

What’s next

The Cardinals will need to determine if Calais Campbell wants to play one more season or retire. If he is open to returning, the team should make re-signing him a priority ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

Bringing back respected veteran Calais Campbell could provide a significant boost to the Cardinals' defensive line and locker room as the team transitions to a new head coach. His production and leadership would be invaluable, and the team should make re-signing him a top offseason priority.