Veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft: Still Making an Impact
In an era where the NFL constantly sees fresh talent, there remain a few stalwarts from the 2008 NFL Draft who continue to make their mark. Three notable players still on the NFL active rosters from that draft are Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell.
Joe Flacco: The Comeback Kid
Joe Flacco, named the 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, currently plays quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts. His return to form and resilience in the face of adversity have earned him this prestigious accolade, underscoring his tenacity and skill. Flacco, who once led the Baltimore Ravens to a Super Bowl victory, continues to showcase his talent and leadership on the field.
Josh Johnson: A Steady Hand in Baltimore
Quarterback Josh Johnson currently hones his skills with the Baltimore Ravens. Johnson's journey through the NFL has seen him traverse multiple teams, but his presence on the Ravens' roster highlights his consistent performance and ability to adapt to various offensive systems.
Calais Campbell: A Veteran for the Dolphins
Calais Campbell, a defensive tackle now with the Miami Dolphins, is another standout. Campbell boasts an illustrious career, with six Pro Bowl appearances and a spot on the 2010s All-Decade team as highlights. As he approaches his 38th birthday on September 1, Campbell reflects on a productive 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons, where he started all 17 games, recording 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 42 quarterback pressures – just one fewer than 2022 fifth overall pick Kayvon Thibodeaux of the New York Giants.
The Decision to Continue
Facing the thought of retirement, Campbell admits, "I thought about [retiring]." However, his love for the game and the conversation with his family were crucial in his decision to return for another season. "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."
Campbell acknowledges the evolution in his game due to age but emphasizes, "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 got a full box of little tools." His passion for football remains undiminished: "But what keeps me going though is a love for the game."
A New Opportunity with the Dolphins
Drawn by the opportunity to chase a Super Bowl ring, Campbell joined the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins' roster is stacked with talent, including six Pro Bowlers: Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, Raheem Mostert, Jalen Ramsey, Terron Armstead, and Alec Ingold. The addition of Kendall Fuller, Jordan Poyer, Shaquil Barrett, and Odell Beckham Jr. further bolsters their chances.
Campbell sees a promising opportunity with the Dolphins, noting, "I feel like there's a really good opportunity here. Very talented team all over the field, both offense and defense." He adds, "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
Another significant factor in Campbell's decision was reuniting with Anthony Weaver, the Dolphins’ coach, who previously served as Campbell’s position coach for two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. "The main reason I wanted to come here was because I really believe in who Anthony Weaver is as a coach and our relationship," Campbell explained. "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
As Campbell embarks on his 17th NFL season, his goal remains clear: to win the Super Bowl. Despite an impressive career, a Super Bowl title has eluded him thus far. Reflecting on his rookie season with the Arizona Cardinals when they lost Super Bowl XLIII to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Campbell remains motivated, drawn to Miami for another shot at the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Calais Campbell's journey through the NFL epitomizes endurance and passion. As he aims to add a Super Bowl ring to his list of accomplishments, his presence in the Dolphins' defense could be a game-changing factor in their quest for glory.