When Calais Campbell signed with the Miami Dolphins in June, the 38-year-old future Hall of Famer hoped it’d give him the chance to add a missing piece to his illustrious career: a Super Bowl ring.
But now that the team is 6-8 and its postseason hopes are circling the drain, winning a Super Bowl with the Dolphins is looking like a lost cause. Campbell’s chances at a trip to Super Bowl might not be over, though.
On Wednesday, the six-time Pro Bowler told reporters that it’s possible the Dolphins could release him relatively soon to allow him to sign with a contender.
Whether Calais Campbell will finish season here is fluid. Will be here at least as long as in playoff contention. If Fins eliminated, Dolphins releasing him to join contender still in play
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) December 18, 2024
“Weeks back, before the trade deadline and stuff, there was a small conversation that you really didn’t hope would ever even become a thing,” Campbell told reporters, via David Furones of the Sun Sentinel. “Nothing concrete or anything like that. I don’t know if we’re there just yet, but it’s definitely something you think about.
“In this business, they rarely involve the player in the decisions, right? I just show up, be a professional, and try be the best player I can be to help my team win. I came here to the Dolphins with a year-long commitment to go out here compete and try to make the playoffs. That job is technically not done yet. We still have a shot, so I’m committed.”
To make the playoffs, Miami would have to win its last three games and hope the Colts lose at least once and either the Chargers lose two of their last three or the Broncos or Ravens lose out.
If the Dolphins are eliminated soon and Campbell is cut loose by the team, he would hit the waiver wire, as even vested veterans must do so after the trade deadline. There would be no shortage of interest in the 38-year-old’s services.
There was a bidding war for Campbell at the deadline with the Baltimore Ravens even offering a fifth-round pick for the lineman. The Ravens would presumably still have interest, and other contenders — like the Washington Commanders, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Buffalo Bills — could also use a defensive line boost.
In 14 games with the Dolphins, Campbell has four sacks, five pass deflections, a forced fumble, and 10 tackles for loss.
