A story that’s been captivating Detroit Lions fans this past week revolves around the fate of veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell and his potential move to a new team. The 38-year-old former All-Pro is currently with the Miami Dolphins, but it seems his time there could be nearing an end as the team prepares to make a significant roster move. The Dolphins are reportedly planning to waive Campbell if they are eliminated from playoff contention. Should that scenario unfold, Campbell would be free to sign with a Super Bowl contender and possibly make one final push for the championship he’s been chasing throughout his illustrious career.
With the NFL’s trade deadline now behind us, the rules have shifted. Regardless of a player’s veteran status, all players who are waived must go through the waiver wire. This means that Campbell’s fate now lies in the hands of the teams with the best waiver positions, and with his experience and reputation, there’s no shortage of teams interested in adding him to their defensive line.
One team that seems particularly interested in Campbell’s services is the Detroit Lions. According to Omar Kelly of the Miami Herald, the Lions are expected to put in a waiver claim for Campbell, should he hit the wire. Kelly further mentions that the Minnesota Vikings, currently sitting just above the Lions on the waiver priority list, are also likely to pursue the veteran defensive lineman. The Vikings and Lions both have strong postseason aspirations, and adding a player of Campbell’s caliber could give them the extra boost they need in their quest for a deep playoff run.
Campbell’s credentials are hard to ignore. He currently ranks third in active sacks among NFL defensive tackles, and his leadership and ability to disrupt the opposing offense are attributes that any contending team would be eager to acquire. With his wealth of experience and his championship pedigree, Campbell would be a valuable asset to any defensive unit looking to make a Super Bowl run.
However, the situation is far from straightforward. The Vikings, holding a slightly better position on the waiver wire, have the first opportunity to claim Campbell if they so choose. If they do, the Lions would be left without an opportunity to snag him. If Minnesota passes, however, Detroit would likely be next in line and could seize the chance to add a major player to their defense.
Of course, none of this can happen until the Dolphins are mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, and that moment could come as early as this Sunday. A loss to the Cleveland Browns would officially seal their fate and allow Campbell to be waived. Given Miami’s recent struggles, the possibility of that outcome is looking more and more likely, making it a tense waiting game for teams like the Lions, Vikings, and other potential suitors such as the Kansas City Chiefs, who are also reportedly interested in Campbell’s services.
In the coming days, the situation will become clearer as the Dolphins edge closer to their playoff fate. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see whether Campbell will make the move to Detroit or if another team will swoop in first. For Lions fans, the hope is that their team will be the one to land the defensive stalwart and add another game-changer to their already-impressive roster. As the NFL season heats up and playoff scenarios unfold, one thing is certain: Calais Campbell’s next destination could be a pivotal moment in the stretch run to the Super Bowl.
