Calais Campbell Trade Remains Unlikely for Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals face a pivotal moment as the 2025 regular season progresses. With the trade deadline approaching on November 4, speculation mounts about potential moves within the team. The Cardinals’ disappointing performance has led some analysts to suggest they may transition into sellers mode. One player prominently featured in these discussions is defensive end Calais Campbell.
Calais Campbell’s Performance and Value
Despite being 39 years old, Calais Campbell continues to demonstrate his value on the field. As of now, he maintains an impressive track record, aiming for his fifteenth consecutive season with a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade above 71.0. His overall contributions include:
- 11 quarterback pressures
- 70.0 run-defense grade
These stats position Campbell as a key asset for the Cardinals, especially in their newly restructured defense. However, his one-year contract and age raise questions about the team’s direction moving forward.
Potential Trade Destinations
Various teams have emerged as possible suitors for Campbell. Notable mentions include:
- Green Bay Packers
- Kansas City Chiefs
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Chicago Bears
The Kansas City Chiefs, in particular, have an urgent need for defensive improvement, as indicated by their lowest-ranked run-defense grade among NFL interior defenders.
Campbell’s Affinity for Arizona
While trade talks swirl, Campbell’s connection to the Cardinals remains strong. His return to Arizona was motivated in part by his fondness for the team and its fans. “I started getting in my head like, ‘Dang, that would be cool to go back to Arizona,’” Campbell remarked after rejoining the team in the offseason. This personal bond complicates the likelihood of a trade, especially if he wants one last chance at a Super Bowl victory.
What Lies Ahead
As the Cardinals grapple with their season’s trajectory, the decision to trade Campbell hinges on several factors. While the team could benefit from gaining younger players through a trade, Campbell’s on-field performance suggests he still possesses significant capabilities. With upcoming games crucial for both players and coaches, the Cardinals must weigh the merits of retaining him against possible trade offers.
Ultimately, unless Campbell advocates for a move aimed at pursuing a championship, it seems more prudent for the Cardinals to hold onto this veteran presence as they navigate the rest of the season.
