Veteran defensive end Calais Campbell isn’t wasting time talking up his new team, the Atlanta Falcons. Speaking with reporters earlier this week, Campbell said that he believes that a lot of people are sleeping on the Falcons ahead of the 2023 NFL season.
Campbell, a six-time Pro Bowler, signed with the Falcons last week on a one-year, $7 million deal. While the move was a surprise to many, considering he is in the late stage of his career, the player feels very comfortable with his decision. He explained that he likes coach Arthur Smith’s vision for the team and believes they will exceed the expectations of many.
“I really thought he had a great game plan for where the team is at right now and where it’s going, and I really feel like that’s gonna surprise a lot of people this year,” he shared. “This team’s gonna be a very competitive, tough team that’ll win a lot of ball games.”
Atlanta finished the 2022 season with a 7-10 record but showed a lot of promise as they tried to rebuild their roster and deal with salary-cap restraints. Signing proven veteran in Calais Campbell is a clear indication that the Falcons want to play better this year and bring some joy to their fans after several rough years.
Campbell had 5.5 sacks, 36 tackles, and two forced fumbles in 14 games he played with the Baltimore Ravens last season. The NFL 2010s All-Decade Team selectee previously also suited up for the Arizona Cardinals and the Jacksonville Jaguars.
