Defensive end Calais Campbell has agreed to a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, a source confirmed on Wednesday. This move comes as the Falcons seek to upgrade their defense ahead of next season.
Campbell’s move to the team comes as no surprise given that Falcons coach Arthur Smith stated at the end of the last season that the team needed to make additions to its defensive lineup. The changes began with the appointment of new defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, who replaced the retired Dean Pees, and was followed by the addition of safety Jessie Bates III, defensive tackle David Onyemata and linebacker Kaden Elliss on free agency.
With 5.5 sacks last season, Campbell would have ranked second on the Falcons team in 2022 as well as led the team in 2021 had he signed sooner. He is expected to provide a valuable wealth of experience to Atlanta’s defensive front. At 36 years old, Campbell is currently the oldest active defensive lineman in the NFL.
