The Miami Dolphins Must Bring Back Calais Campbell

The Miami Dolphins have a massive void at defensive tackle heading into this offseason—one they cannot afford to ignore. With key departures and an unproven interior defensive line, Miami needs a veteran presence to anchor the front. While the NFL draft is full of interior defensive line talent, there is no better veteran option than bringing back Calais Campbell, a proven leader who exceeded expectations in his 17th NFL season.

Last season, the Dolphins signed Campbell, hoping his experience and skill set would help solidify their defense for a Super Bowl run. While Miami fell short of that goal, Campbell was still one of the team’s most impactful defenders, proving that even at 38 years old, he remains a difference-maker. If the Dolphins are serious about improving their defense and competing in 2025, they must re-sign Campbell to fill this glaring hole.

A Major Void in the Defensive Line

The Dolphins enter the offseason with an urgent need to reinforce their defensive interior. With the current depth chart lacking proven talent (other than Zach Sieler and Benito Jones), Miami’s front seven could regress without a reliable force in the middle. While the team is expected to draft defensive tackles, rookies often need time to develop—time Miami doesn’t have if it wants to contend immediately.

Campbell provides an immediate solution. His ability to clog running lanes, pressure quarterbacks, and mentor young defenders makes him invaluable. He finished last season with five sacks, 12 tackles for loss, and 12 quarterback hits, showing he still plays at a high level. His presence alone helped stabilize Miami’s run defense, which had been a persistent weakness in recent years.

The Leadership Miami Desperately Needs

Beyond his on-field production, Campbell’s leadership is irreplaceable. As a former Walter Payton Man of the Year, his mentorship helped shape Miami’s defensive identity. Young players like Chop Robinson benefited from his guidance, and his experience with defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver in Baltimore made him a seamless fit in Miami’s scheme.

Weaver has already set the tone for a more physical, disciplined defense, and Miami’s linebacker unit—with additions like Jordyn Brooks, Tyrel Dodson, K.J. Britt, and Willie Gay—reflects that vision. However, for this defense to reach its full potential, Miami needs an established veteran on the defensive line. Pairing Campbell with Zach Sieler and Miami’s edge rushers would give Miami a formidable front capable of disrupting offenses.

A Lasting Impact & Culture Builder

Campbell isn’t just a great player; he’s a culture-setter. Miami’s defense has lacked toughness and consistency in recent years, but Campbell brings both. His experience, work ethic, and leadership help set a standard for the entire unit. For Heat fans, think of Campbell as a Udonis Haslem-type figure—but one who still plays at a high level.

The Dolphins will likely invest in young defensive tackles in the draft, but no rookie can replace the value Campbell provides as a mentor. Playing alongside him would accelerate the development of Miami’s future defensive stars, giving them a model of professionalism and dominance to emulate.

Campbell’s Impact Beyond Football

Re-signing Calais Campbell wouldn’t just benefit the Dolphins on the field—it would also positively impact the South Florida community. Through his CRC Foundation, Campbell has dedicated himself to mentorship, education, and providing essential resources to those in need. The foundation’s mission, inspired by his late father, Charles Richard Campbell, emphasizes hope, integrity, and creating opportunities for others to achieve their dreams.

Miami has long embraced athletes who give back, and Campbell’s presence would continue to strengthen that connection. His leadership extends beyond the locker room, helping to shape not only the Dolphins’ defense but also the lives of young people in the community.

Miami Must Do the Right Thing

If the Dolphins are serious about contending, re-signing Campbell is a no-brainer. He fits perfectly into Miami’s defensive scheme, fills a critical roster need, and brings the veteran leadership necessary for sustained success.

The Dolphins have a major void at defensive tackle—one they cannot leave unaddressed. If Campbell is willing to play an 18th NFL season, Miami must do the right thing and bring him back. Letting him walk would be a massive mistake.