This would be an instant upgrade to the Cowboys’ defensive front.
Coming into the offseason, the Dallas Cowboys knew they had work to do to fill some holes before the NFL draft, and the defensive line was one of the key areas. They’ve made several moves in regard to the unit, with bringing back edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. being the most noteworthy. When taking a look at the free agent market, there’s another name the Cowboys should consider, and it’s veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell.
Of course, in the world of the NFL, any player north of 30 is considered old. Campbell is looking father time directly in the face and holding up very nicely. In 2024, his 17th in the league, Campbell finished with 52 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five sacks, 12 quarterback hits, and also recorded five batted passes at the line of scrimmage for the Miami Dolphins. Campbell recorded a defense grade of 82.3 per Pro Football Focus, which was seventh among all defensive lineman. Also, his 85.9 run-defense grade was ranked first for all defensive lineman. With Campbell’s help, the Dolphins were ninth against the run last season and were fourth in total defense.
That alone should make Campbell appealing to the Cowboys. They were terrible against the run last season and haven’t been the best going back to the Dan Quinn era. Campbell could come right in and help a guy like Osa Odighizuwa and also work with Mazi Smith to anchor the interior of the defensive line and help in turning that aspect around. With Campbell still being able to get to the quarterback, he can assist in moving the pocket as well and set up guys like All-Pro Micah Parsons and the aforementioned Fowler to make plays off the edge.
Campbell played on a one-year deal worth $2 million with a $1.2 million based salary last season. Dallas currently has the ninth-most cap space at $38.5 million per Over The Cap. So, from a cost standpoint, getting Campbell is more than doable for the Cowboys.
