2019 Walter Payton Man of the Year DL Lands New Deal with the Ravens
With years of playing in the NFL comes valuable experience that many teams covet once free agency begins, as they search for players who fit their needs. As the 2026 NFL free agency period entered its latter stages in recent weeks, several veteran players drew interest from teams across the league. One notable free agent was veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell. The 39-year-old lineman is viewed as a valuable addition to any roster, bringing extensive knowledge and maintaining his physique over 18 seasons, allowing him to remain an impactful presence on the field. It has now been reported that Campbell and the Baltimore Ravens have agreed to a one-year contract, as the Colorado native prepares for his 19th NFL season in 2026.
A former Miami Hurricanes alumnus, Campbell was selected in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals and has built a widely respected career. Over 18 seasons, he has played for five teams: the Jaguars, Ravens, Falcons, Dolphins, and, most recently, the Cardinals, rejoining Arizona for the 2025 season after beginning his career there and later departing for Jacksonville in 2017. The six-foot-eight lineman has recorded 960 total tackles, 674 solo tackles, 18 forced fumbles, three interceptions, and 138.5 sacks across 278 career games. In addition to his impressive statistics, Campbell has been named to the Pro Bowl six times and earned one of the league’s highest honors, the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2019.
During his return to the Cardinals last season, Campbell remained a reliable presence, appearing in all 17 games. Although his snap count was limited due to age, he still produced solid numbers, finishing with six and a half sacks, 43 total tackles, 23 solo tackles, and two passes defended. Despite nearing 40, Campbell continues to be an impactful contributor on an NFL roster. The Ravens are adding a highly motivated veteran who still has one major goal left in his future Hall of Fame career: winning a Super Bowl. As Baltimore enters the 2026 season with high expectations, Campbell hopes to make an immediate impact as both he and the team pursue a Lombardi Trophy.
