The Miami Dolphins have experienced a relatively calm offseason, prioritizing the re-signing of depth players and introducing some competition in areas of need. General manager Chris Grier approached the offseason with certain salary-cap constraints and it was anticipated that the team wouldn’t be particularly active in the free-agent market.

This is one reason why Calais Campbell, a significant defensive contributor, remains available. Despite approaching his 39th birthday, Campbell demonstrated during his brief tenure in Miami that he could still be a formidable force on the interior defensive line. Should he choose to continue playing, he is likely to attract numerous suitors.

If Campbell decides to part ways with Miami before the 2025 season, he might find a new team with the Cincinnati Bengals, according to Nick Shook of NFL.com. Last year, the Bengals missed the playoffs, mainly due to defensive shortcomings in the season’s first half. Cincinnati fans often cited the departure of D.J. Reader in free agency as a major factor in this struggle.

Campbell finished his Miami stint in 2024, remains unretired, and is still a standout player, even as he nears his 39th birthday in September. While Cincinnati experiences cold winters, the temperature will feel much warmer if the Bengals’ late-season games hold significance. Having spent heavily to retain Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the focus should shift to strengthening the defense.

Adding Campbell would be prudent, even if Trey Hendrickson secures a new deal, especially since the team aims to return to the playoffs in 2025. The Bengals’ defense could benefit from additional depth on the line alongside star player Trey Hendrickson, assuming he stays in Cincinnati despite a contract dispute and trade request. Even in 2024, at an advanced age, Campbell recorded 5.0 sacks and 37 quarterback pressures over 378 pass-rush plays, according to Next Gen Stats.

Spotrac estimates Campbell could secure a one-year contract valued at $7 million in free agency, leaving open the possibility of him staying in Miami. While the Dolphins recently re-signed Benito Jones, they still need more depth on the defensive line. Campbell remains capable of having a significant impact, so his next destination will be intriguing to watch.