MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Calais Campbell is focusing on the present rather than contemplating the future beyond his upcoming game with the Miami Dolphins against the San Francisco 49ers. The seasoned defensive tackle expressed his determination to appreciate the current moment and believes that the Dolphins have more potential than their recent performance has shown.
After a practice session on Wednesday, Campbell reflected on how close he came to being traded to Baltimore before the trade deadline. Coach Mike McDaniel intervened, arguing that the Dolphins, who were struggling with a 2-6 record at the time, still had the opportunity to salvage their season.
“There was interest from other teams, which signifies Campbell’s importance to Miami,” McDaniel remarked in November. He added that his role was to prioritize what’s best for the Dolphins looking ahead to 2024. Campbell noted that discussions about his potential release to join a playoff team could happen if the Dolphins (currently 6-8) find themselves eliminated from postseason contention in the near future.
“A while back, we had a brief conversation about the situation, but it was more of a talk than anything serious,” Campbell acknowledged. “It hasn’t reached a definitive point, but it’s definitely on my mind.” Following a loss to Houston last week, the Dolphins face a difficult path to the playoffs. However, they can still clinch a playoff spot if they win their final three games, aided by favorable outcomes for other teams. Their upcoming schedule includes hosting San Francisco, followed by road games against Cleveland and the New York Jets.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa emphasized the need for the team to move past their disappointing performance against the Texans, particularly after committing four turnovers. Nevertheless, he believes the squad remains motivated, thanks to the experience of its players. “There are numerous veterans in our locker room who understand the implications of giving up,” Tagovailoa stated. “We all earn our living from this game.”
Having played for Baltimore from 2020 to 2022, Campbell has a rich history in the league, spending the bulk of his 17-year career with Arizona, where he made a Super Bowl appearance as a rookie in 2008. Despite past opportunities, Campbell does not dwell on regrets regarding his choice in November not to align with a contending team.
“I believe every decision is valid,” he explained. “You choose a path and commit to it. I came to the Dolphins with the intention of striving for the playoffs, and that goal isn’t out of reach yet. I’m dedicated to the cause.” Currently, Campbell ranks third on the team with four sacks, complemented by 43 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, five passes defensed, and one forced fumble this season.
While contemplating retirement is on his mind, Campbell has not deeply considered the possibility of returning for an 18th NFL season. However, he remains open to the idea of staying in Miami if he chooses to continue playing football. He signed a one-year contract with the Dolphins in June.
“This team, the coaching staff, and this locker room have made my time enjoyable,” Campbell shared. “I wish for more wins this year, but I appreciate my time here. It would be thrilling to finish the season strong and compete for a playoff spot. If I decide to continue my career, Miami is a place I would love to be.”
In other news, receiver Grant DuBose was scheduled to return from Houston on Wednesday after being hospitalized due to a concussion sustained against the Texans over the weekend. The Dolphins have placed DuBose on injured reserve as of Tuesday. Additionally, key players like Tyreek Hill (wrist/rest), Jaylen Waddle (knee), and offensive tackles Kendall Lamm (back) and Terron Armstead (knee) missed Wednesday’s practice. Tagovailoa was listed as limited due to a hip injury.