The Detroit Lions have already signed two new defensive linemen to their roster this offseason. But SI.com’s All Lions’ Christian Booher isn’t against the Lions still targeting veteran Calais Campbell.
Booher named Campbell one of seven defensive free agents the Lions could still target prior to the start of training camp.
“Campbell offers flexibility on the defensive line, as he’s able to play on the outside and set the edge or help stifle the run on the inside,” Booher wrote. “This season would be Campbell’s 17th, so he may not be in his prime form.
“However, he could be another useful mentor for the young players such as Brodric Martin and Mekhi Wingo.”
Booher also wrote that the Lions were interested in signing Campbell last offseason. But he landed with the Atlanta Falcons on a 1-year deal.
In Atlanta, Campbell posted 56 combined tackles, including 10 tackles for loss. He also had 6.5 sacks with 17 quarterback hits, 1 pass defense and 1 forced fumble in 17 games.
From 2014-20, Campbell was one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL. During that seven-year stretch, he made the Pro Bowl six times and one of the All-Pro teams on three occasions.
During 2017, he earned Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro nominations while also finishing second for the Defensive Player of the Year award.
Over his 16-year NFL career, Campbell has earned $141.67 million.
How Calais Campbell Could Fit With the Lions
Campbell will turn 38 just before the regular season begins. But he may still have a little left in the tank, which would make him a quality addition to the Lions defensive line.
Booher argued Campbell could have an impact for Detroit both as a versatile defensive lineman and mentor.
“The veteran is held in high regard across the league, as he carries a strong reputation as a former captain,” wrote Booher. “If he has some production left in the tank, he could be useful for Detroit both on and off the field.”
The Lions added multiple defensive ends and defensive tackles this offseason, so they don’t have a major need at any particularly spot on the defensive line. But Campbell’s ability to play anywhere could be quite appealing for Detroit.
In Atlanta last season, Campbell played all over the Falcons defensive line, with a majority of his snaps coming along the edge. That’s where he has played for most of his career.
Campbell began his NFL journey as a second-round pick with the Arizona Cardinals in 2008. He had five seasons with at least 6 sacks from 2008-13, but he continued to get better and received more league-wide recognition beginning in 2014.
Campbell signed a free agent contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars ahead of the 2017 season, which was arguably his best in the NFL. After three seasons in Jacksonville, Campbell played three years with the Baltimore Ravens before spending 2023 in Atlanta.
In 244 career NFL games, Campbell has recorded 105.5 sacks, 175 tackles for loss, 254 quarterback hits and 17 forced fumbles.
Detroit’s Defensive Line Depth
The Lions signed defensive end Marcus Davenport in NFL free agency and also added the reigning CFL’s most outstanding defensive player in Mathieu Betts. At defensive tackle, the Lions signed D.J. Reader and drafted Mekhi Wingo in the sixth round.
If Detroit signed Campbell, he would most likely be another option for the Lions along the edge. He could be an excellent depth addition for a defense hoping to improve its pass rush and compete for a Super Bowl in 2024-25.
The Lions were tied for 23rd with 41 sacks last season.
Detroit also has veterans John Cominsky and Josh Paschal for depth along the edge behind Davenport and Aidan Hutchinson. But like Campbell, Cominsky and Paschal can play inside as well.
That versatility could be very helpful. The Lions have depth along the interior of the defensive line but questions too. Levi Onwuzurike and Brodric Martin have yet to develop into reliable defensive tackles since the Lions selected them on Day 2 of the NFL draft.
Campbell would give the Lions more depth along the edge and additional insurance in case the team continues to not see progress from other defensive tackles on the roster.
