What happened: During the Ravens' mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell indicated that the upcoming 2026 season will likely be his last in the NFL. The 39-year-old returner cited his enduring love for the game as the primary reason for returning for a 19th professional campaign.
Why it matters: Campbell's expected retirement would conclude a legendary career featuring over 100 sacks and a Walter Payton Man of the Year award. His veteran presence is vital for a Baltimore defense looking to stabilize its interior pass rush ahead of the 2026 season.
By the numbers: Campbell enters 2026 with 117.0 career sacks and 278 games played, needing just five more to set the NFL record for a defensive lineman. In 2025, he recorded 6.5 sacks and 43 tackles while maintaining a 72.2 PFF defensive grade.
What to watch: Watch for Campbell to anchor the defensive front as he approaches his 40th birthday this September.