Veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft
The 2008 NFL Draft produced a number of notable players, and three veterans from that class continue to make their mark on the league today: Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell.
Joe Flacco: The Comeback Kid
Joe Flacco, often referred to as the "Comeback Kid," has been named the 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Demonstrating resilience and skill, Flacco currently plays quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts.
Josh Johnson: A Steady Hand in Baltimore
Josh Johnson, who has had a journeyman career, is now the quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. Known for his steady hand and versatility, Johnson has played for multiple teams throughout his career.
Calais Campbell: A Veteran for the Dolphins
Calais Campbell continues to be a dominant force in the NFL, now playing as a defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins. Campbell boasts six Pro Bowl appearances and was included in the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team. His 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons was particularly productive, where he started all 17 games, recorded 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 42 quarterback pressures.
The Decision to Continue
As Campbell considered his next steps, retirement was on the table. However, the love for the game ultimately influenced his decision to return for another season. Family discussions, particularly with his wife and kids, were crucial in this decision-making process. Campbell acknowledges that his game has evolved due to age, emphasizing the importance of strength and finesse in his technique.
"I thought about [retiring]," Campbell said. "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."
He added, "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. But what keeps me going though is a love for the game."
A New Opportunity with the Dolphins
Campbell joined the Miami Dolphins to chase the elusive Super Bowl ring. The Dolphins' current roster includes six Pro Bowl players, making the team a formidable contender. Campbell views his new team as a promising opportunity, valuing the potential for strong team chemistry.
“I feel like there's a really good opportunity here. Very talented team all over the field, both offense and defense,” Campbell noted. “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 factor in Campbell’s decision was reuniting with coach Anthony Weaver, who served as Campbell’s position coach for two seasons. Campbell holds Weaver in high regard and believes in his coaching capabilities.
“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
For Campbell, the ultimate goal remains: winning a Super Bowl title. Despite an illustrious career, a Super Bowl ring has eluded him thus far. Notably, Campbell played in Super Bowl XLIII with the Arizona Cardinals, but victory slipped through their fingers.
As he dons Dolphins’ colors, Campbell is not just chasing personal accolades but is driven by the collective dream of lifting the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Each step on the field brings him closer to that objective, underscoring his deep commitment and undying passion for the game.