The Miami Dolphins have several positions to address before the regular season begins, but their most pressing need is along the defensive line. Currently, the group features the consistently underrated Zach Sieler, nose tackle Benito Jones, and a couple of fringe NFL players.
There is plenty of defensive line talent available in the upcoming NFL Draft, but the Dolphins are keeping a key under the mat for 38-year-old Calais Campbell.
Even in his 17th NFL season, Campbell was one of Miami's best defensive players last season. He started all 17 games for the Dolphins, recording 52 tackles (35 solo), five sacks, one forced fumble, 11.5 run stuffs, and five passes defended.
According to Dolphins Head Coach Mike McDaniel, "Calais (Campbell) is in a unique situation where he's accessing multiple options."
He added, "There’s a lot in play in that, in regard to, your play is high, you’re excited to play another year. He’s assessing those options, and he was a very important player to the team last year. I see him having the opportunity to be a very important player on the team this year.”
Campbell's choices include retiring, returning to the Dolphins, or signing with another NFL team. He has earned the right to take his time making a decision, but McDaniel mentioned that he's maintained constant communication with both Campbell and offensive tackle Terron Armstead.
While the team is "operating as though (Armstead) is unavailable to us," they seem more optimistic about Campbell's prospects. This is an encouraging sign that the defensive tackle is at least contemplating a return for an 18th season. If he does decide to continue playing, let's just hope it's with the Dolphins.
