Bengals Predicted to Sign Six-Time Pro Bowl Edge Rusher

Veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell expected to join Cincinnati on one-year deal.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:53pm

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The Cincinnati Bengals are projected to sign former Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell, a six-time Pro Bowler, to help bolster their pass rush. Campbell, who is 39 years old, recorded 6.5 sacks in 2025 and provides veteran leadership and versatility to play both on the edge and inside.

Why it matters

The Bengals have a need at edge rusher after losing Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai in the offseason. Adding an experienced player like Campbell could help shore up their defense and return them to the playoffs after a recent drought.

The details

Along with the 6.5 sacks Campbell posted in 2025, he also had a 69.2 run defense grade per Pro Football Focus, showcasing his ability to be a disruptive force against both the pass and run. The Bengals currently have around $19 million in cap space, which should be enough to sign Campbell to a one-year deal in the $10 million range.

  • Campbell recorded 6.5 sacks for the Arizona Cardinals in the 2025 NFL season.

The players

Calais Campbell

A 39-year-old defensive lineman who has been selected to the Pro Bowl six times in his career.

Trey Hendrickson

A former Bengals edge rusher who departed the team in free agency.

Joseph Ossai

A former Bengals edge rusher who also departed the team.

Boye Mafe

A defensive end the Bengals signed this offseason who had 2 sacks in 2025.

Myles Murphy

A Bengals edge rusher who had 5.5 sacks in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“The ageless wonder refuses to slow down. Even approaching 40, Calais Campbell remains a disruptive force in the trenches and a towering locker-room presence.”

— Paul Connor, SportsGrid Analyst

What’s next

The Bengals will need to finalize contract negotiations with Calais Campbell in the coming days and weeks to officially bring him on board for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

By signing the veteran Calais Campbell, the Bengals can add an experienced and productive edge rusher to their defense, which should help them return to the playoffs after a recent drought and provide valuable leadership in the locker room.