Lions Could Bolster Defense by Signing Veteran Calais Campbell, Says SI’s Christian Booher
The Detroit Lions have already signed two new defensive linemen this offseason, but SI.com’s All Lions writer Christian Booher suggests they shouldn’t rule out adding veteran Calais Campbell.
Booher identified Campbell as one of seven defensive free agents the Lions could still target before training camp begins.
“Campbell brings versatility to the defensive line, able to play outside to set the edge or move inside to stop the run,” Booher wrote. “While he may not be in his prime entering his 17th season, he could serve as a valuable mentor for young players like Brodric Martin and Mekhi Wingo.”
Last offseason, the Lions showed interest in Campbell, but he signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons. In Atlanta, he tallied 56 combined tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, 17 quarterback hits, one pass defense, and one forced fumble over 17 games.
From 2014 to 2020, Campbell was among the NFL’s elite defensive linemen, earning six Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro nods. In 2017, he received both Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors and was runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year.
Over his 16-year career, Campbell has played in 244 NFL games, recording 105.5 sacks, 175 tackles for loss, 254 quarterback hits, and 17 forced fumbles. He has earned $141.67 million throughout his career.
How Calais Campbell Could Fit With the Lions
Campbell will turn 38 just before the regular season begins, but he could still have enough left to make a significant impact on the Lions’ defensive line.
Booher argued that Campbell’s presence would benefit Detroit both on the field and as a mentor.
“The veteran is highly respected across the league and known as a former captain,” Booher wrote. “If he still has some production left, he could be a valuable asset for the Lions both on and off the field.”
