Veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft Continue to Impress
As the NFL evolves, certain veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft continue to defy the odds and showcase their skills on the field. Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell remain active contributors to the league in 2023. Their perseverance and love for the game have allowed them to extend their careers and maintain a high level of performance.
Joe Flacco: The Comeback Kid
Joe Flacco, known for his resilience and tenacity, is the 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Currently playing quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, Flacco has earned this accolade through his remarkable perseverance and dedication to the game.
Josh Johnson: A Steady Hand in Baltimore
Josh Johnson has carved out a niche for himself as a reliable quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. Over his career, he has played for multiple teams, showcasing his adaptability and steady hand in various situations. Johnson's experience and versatility have made him a valuable asset to any team he joins.
Calais Campbell: A Veteran for the Dolphins
Calais Campbell, a seasoned defensive tackle, now plays for the Miami Dolphins. With six Pro Bowl appearances and inclusion in the 2010s All-Decade team, Campbell’s career is filled with accolades. His performance during the 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons was particularly noteworthy. Starting all 17 games, Campbell recorded 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 42 quarterback pressures, proving his enduring value on the field.
The Decision to Continue
Campbell contemplated retirement, but his love for the game and a crucial conversation with his family influenced his decision to return for another season. Acknowledging the evolution of his game due to age, Campbell focuses on strength and finesse to continue excelling. As he put it, “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.”
A New Opportunity with the Dolphins
Campbell joined the Miami Dolphins with the goal of chasing a Super Bowl ring. The Dolphins' roster, which includes six Pro Bowl players and other talented additions, presented a promising opportunity. Campbell values the team chemistry and sees a bright future in Miami. “I feel like there's a really good opportunity here. Very talented team all over the field, both offense and defense,” Campbell said.
Reuniting with Anthony Weaver
A significant factor in Campbell's decision to join the Dolphins was reuniting with coach Anthony Weaver. Weaver served as Campbell’s position coach for two seasons, and Campbell holds him in high regard. “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 explained. He trusts in Weaver’s coaching and appreciates that Weaver understands his capabilities and mindset.
The Pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy
Campbell’s ultimate goal is to win a Super Bowl, a title that has so far eluded him. He played in Super Bowl XLIII with the Arizona Cardinals but fell short of securing the championship. “What keeps me going though is a love for the game,” Campbell said. His passion for football continues to drive him as he looks forward to achieving the pinnacle of success in the sport.
As veterans like Flacco, Johnson, and Campbell continue their NFL journeys, they serve as inspirations to younger players. Their dedication, adaptability, and love for the game are testaments to their enduring legacy in professional football. Whether it's Flacco’s comeback, Johnson’s reliability, or Campbell’s relentless pursuit of excellence, these veterans remind us that age is just a number when passion and dedication are in play.