Veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft
Fifteen years into their professional careers, Joe Flacco, Josh Johnson, and Calais Campbell continue to leave their marks on the NFL. These seasoned veterans from the 2008 NFL Draft are not merely content with being part of the league; they are driven to achieve more.
Joe Flacco: The Comeback Kid
In 2023, Joe Flacco was honored as the NFL Comeback Player of the Year, a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve. Currently serving as the quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, Flacco has shown that his experience and skill still make him a valuable asset to his team.
Josh Johnson: A Steady Hand in Baltimore
Josh Johnson, known for his adaptability, is now quarterbacking for the Baltimore Ravens. Over the years, Johnson has displayed remarkable perseverance, navigating through multiple team changes while continuing to prove his worth as a seasoned quarterback.
Calais Campbell: A Veteran for the Dolphins
Calais Campbell, now a defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins, boasts an impressive resume that includes six Pro Bowl appearances and inclusion in the 2010s All-Decade team. Campbell’s productive 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons saw him starting all 17 games and recording 6.5 sacks, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 42 quarterback pressures.
The Decision to Continue
Despite considering retirement, Campbell chose to return for another season, driven by his enduring love for the game. Conversations with his family played a crucial role in this decision. Campbell acknowledges that his game has evolved with age, emphasizing strength and finesse as key aspects of his style.
"I thought about [retiring],” Campbell said. “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."
He elaborates, "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. But what keeps me going though is a love for the game."
A New Opportunity with the Dolphins
Campbell’s decision to join the Miami Dolphins was influenced by the opportunity to chase a Super Bowl ring. The Dolphins' roster is stacked with talent, including six Pro Bowl players. The addition of new players further strengthens the team, making it a promising environment for Campbell.
"I feel like there's a really good opportunity here,” Campbell noted. “Very talented team all over the field, both offense and defense. 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."
Reuniting with Anthony Weaver
A significant factor in Campbell’s decision to join the Dolphins was the opportunity to reunite with coach Anthony Weaver. Weaver, who served as Campbell’s position coach for two seasons, is someone Campbell deeply believes in as a coach.
"The main reason I wanted to come here was because I really believe in who Anthony Weaver is as a coach and our relationship,” said Campbell. “We talked a lot during the process, and he knows what I'm capable of doing. He understands my mind and how I see the game, and he trusts it."
The Pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy
Winning the Super Bowl remains Campbell's ultimate goal. Although he has not yet secured a Super Bowl title, he did play in Super Bowl XLIII with the Arizona Cardinals. His relentless pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy continues to drive him.
"But what keeps me going though is a love for the game," Campbell reiterated. "I feel like there's a really good opportunity here."
As the 2023 NFL season progresses, all eyes will be on veterans like Flacco, Johnson, and Campbell. Their persistence, experience, and passion for the game continue to inspire fans and teammates alike, proving that age is just a number when it comes to the love of football.