Calais Campbell, defensive line, Jacksonville Jaguars
When Campbell opted to sign with the rebuilding Jaguars rather than join Denver or remain in Arizona, it threw a lot of people for a loop. At 30 years old, he doesn’t have many years remaining in the NFL. Some figured the two-time Pro Bowler would want to contend for a title as his career reaches its twilight.
Apparently, $15 million per season and $30 million guaranteed spoke to Campbell more than a chance to vie for a Lombardi. No one should blame him for that. Heck, most of us would go the same route.
Unfortunately for the nine-year pro, he now goes to a different scheme with a different coaching staff and will be working with other defenders he’s never played with. We’ve seen how this story has played out in the past when it comes to 30-plus year old defensive linemen of Campbell’s pedigree.
How did Jason Taylor’s career turn out when he moved on from the Miami Dolphins to both the Washington Redskins and New York Jets? A combined 15.5 in three years to be exact. That came after Taylor racked up an average of 12 sacks in his final three seasons in South Beach.
It’s a story that has been repeated over and over again. Reggie White and Jared Allen are also prime examples. Veteran defensive linemen — some Hall of Fame caliber — switching teams at the end of the careers. Then, struggling to do anything of substance once they have moved on.
For Campbell, the Hollywood ending here would have been a return to Arizona. Once the Cardinals decided to give Chandler Jones a contract valued at $84 million, that was thrown out the window. Even then, Campbell could have opted for a situation with a better supporting cast. If he’s ultimately tasked with being the primary pass rusher in Jacksonville, it will likely become a downright failure. That’s the harsh reality of the situation here.