Veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft
Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell, all veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft, continue to defy the odds by actively contributing to their respective teams in the NFL.
Joe Flacco: The Comeback Kid
Joe Flacco has earned the title of 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Currently playing quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, Flacco has shown resilience and determination throughout his career.
Josh Johnson: A Steady Hand in Baltimore
Josh Johnson, who has played for multiple teams throughout his career, currently serves as a quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. His extensive experience and adaptability make him a valuable asset to the Ravens' roster.
Calais Campbell: A Veteran for the Dolphins
Calais Campbell, a seasoned defensive tackle, now plays for the Miami Dolphins. Campbell's career is marked by six Pro Bowl appearances and a spot on the 2010s All-Decade Team. His performance in the 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons was nothing short of impressive; he started all 17 games, recording 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 42 quarterback pressures.
The Decision to Continue
Campbell considered retirement but ultimately decided to continue playing, driven by his love for the game. A crucial conversation with his family played a significant role in his decision. Recognizing the need to evolve his game due to age, Campbell emphasizes the importance of strength and finesse in his performance.
Campbell himself explained, "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've got a full box of little tools. But what keeps me going, though, is a love for the game."
A New Opportunity with the Dolphins
Campbell's decision to join the Miami Dolphins was influenced by the desire to chase a Super Bowl ring. The Dolphins' roster boasts six Pro Bowl players, and the addition of new talent further strengthens the team. Campbell sees a promising opportunity with the Dolphins and values the importance of team chemistry.
"I feel like there's a really good opportunity here. Very talented team all over the field, both offense and defense," Campbell commented. "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."
Reuniting with Anthony Weaver
One significant factor in Campbell's decision to come to Miami was the opportunity to reunite with coach Anthony Weaver. Weaver had served as Campbell's position coach for two seasons. Campbell has immense trust in Weaver's coaching abilities, believing that Weaver understands his capabilities and can help him succeed.
Campbell elaborated, "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."
The Pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy
Ultimately, Campbell's goal is to win a Super Bowl. Despite his illustrious career, this achievement has eluded him. Campbell played in Super Bowl XLIII with the Arizona Cardinals but has yet to capture the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Reflecting on his career and future, Campbell acknowledged, "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've got a full box of little tools. But what keeps me going though is a love for the game."
Joining an already talented Miami Dolphins team, Campbell is hopeful that his pursuit of the elusive Super Bowl title will come to fruition. His experience and leadership, combined with the existing talent on the Dolphins' roster, make for a compelling combination as they aim for NFL glory.