Veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft
Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell are three seasoned veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft who continue to make their mark in the league.
Joe Flacco: The Comeback Kid
Joe Flacco, the 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, is currently playing quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts. Known for his resilience and robust arm strength, Flacco has managed to keep his career alive by continuously adapting to the evolving style of play demanded by modern NFL offenses.
Josh Johnson: A Steady Hand in Baltimore
Josh Johnson is the quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. Throughout his career, Johnson has played for multiple teams, showcasing his adaptability and steady presence. While often serving in backup roles, his reliability and veteran experience have been invaluable assets for each team he's joined.
Calais Campbell: A Veteran for the Dolphins
Calais Campbell is a defensive tackle currently playing for the Miami Dolphins. Renowned for his impactful play, Campbell boasts six Pro Bowl appearances and was named to the 2010s All-Decade team.
Campbell's 2023 Season
In 2023, Campbell had a productive season with the Atlanta Falcons, starting all 17 games. He recorded 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 42 quarterback pressures. His seasoned expertise and relentless drive were key components of his performance throughout the season.
The Decision to Continue
Despite contemplating retirement, Campbell's love for the game ultimately influenced his choice to return for another season. Conversations with his family played a crucial role in his decision. "It really came down to just with the family, talking to the wife and kids. Because physically, and the desire and love for the game, has never left, not even a little bit," Campbell said.
He acknowledges the need for evolution in his game due to age, emphasizing the importance of strength and finesse. "I have to learn how to use other parts of my game, bring a lot more of the strength part but I still have enough finesse and everything else, I got a full box of little tools," he explained.
A New Opportunity with the Dolphins
Seeking a Super Bowl ring, Campbell joined the Miami Dolphins, drawn by the team's potential and roster strength, which includes six Pro Bowl players. The addition of new talent only further bolsters the team's prospects. "I feel like there's a really good opportunity here. Very talented team all over the field, both offense and defense," Campbell said.
Campbell values team chemistry highly. "When you go through the roster and who you have, I just see so many people that I feel like we can really play together and really build that team chemistry you need and be a force to reckon with," he said.
Reuniting with Anthony Weaver
A key factor in Campbell's decision to join the Dolphins was the chance to reunite with coach Anthony Weaver, who had previously served as Campbell’s position coach for two seasons. Their pre-existing relationship was a significant draw for Campbell. "The main reason I wanted to come here was because I really believe in who Anthony Weaver is as a coach and our relationship," Campbell noted. Weaver's understanding of Campbell’s game and trust in his abilities played a crucial role in this decision. "He understands my mind and how I see the game, and he trusts it," Campbell said.
The Pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy
Winning the Super Bowl remains Campbell's ultimate goal. Although he has yet to claim a Super Bowl title, Campbell was part of the Arizona Cardinals team that played in Super Bowl XLIII. The pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy continues to be a driving force behind his ongoing career. "What keeps me going though is a love for the game," he said.
As veterans like Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell continue to demonstrate their resilience and passion for the game, they not only enrich their respective teams but also inspire a new generation of players. Their enduring presence in the NFL underscores the importance of experience, adaptability, and sheer determination in the game of football.