After 17 seasons in the NFL, Calais Campbell is back where it all began — Arizona. As he prepares for his 18th year, the 37-year-old defensive lineman has re-signed with the Cardinals, the team that drafted him in 2008. For Campbell, the move wasn’t just about football. It was about legacy, emotion, and finishing what he started.
Speaking about his return, Campbell said, “I feel like it just, it’s where it all began. It’s a special place. I was actually surprised how much emotion I had coming back into the building.”
Despite getting offers from multiple teams, he said going back to Arizona made the most sense, pointing to his belief in the team’s potential and his drive to keep making an impact.
Calais Campbell Reflects on Emotional Homecoming With Arizona Cardinals
Campbell admitted he seriously considered retirement this offseason. “This was the closest I’ve ever been to feeling content with retirement,” he said. But in the end, his love for the game — and belief in what he can still offer — won out.
“I still feel dominant when I’m out there,” he said. “I feel like I can bring a lot of value… especially to the Cardinals. It just made sense.”
Campbell also mentioned that trade interest from Arizona last year first reignited the idea of returning. He said he gave the team high priority when asked about his preferences. As conversations continued — and the Cardinals added key defensive pieces like Josh Sweat — the decision got easier.
“It just made sense to go home,” he said. “I feel like I’ve got a lot of value when I’m in AZ… on the field, in the locker room, and in the community.”
Longevity, Legacy, and Linking Generations with Marvin Harrison Jr.
In a full-circle moment that shows just how long he’s been in the league, Campbell is now teammates with wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. — who was just six years old when Campbell entered the NFL. At the time, Harrison Jr.’s dad, Marvin Harrison Sr., was still playing.
“Your first year in the NFL was Marvin Harrison Sr.’s final season,” a host said. “At that point, Marvin Harrison Jr. was six years old. Now he’s going to be your teammate.”
Campbell credits his long career to a mix of body maintenance, a great support system, and being a late bloomer. “God blessed me with a lot of health, a lot of love for the game, and desire to keep going,” he said.
Now back in Arizona, Campbell is ready to lead again — on the field, in the locker room, and as a link between generations.