Atlanta Falcons Leaving Door Open For Calais Campbell Return?

Calais Campbell remains a free agent, but the Atlanta Falcons would love to have him back for a second go-around.

Oct 15, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) / Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Calais Campbell remains a free agent after his first season with the Atlanta Falcons, but the team is still keeping a close eye on him.

Head coach Raheem Morris said he has spoken with Campbell this offseason, and his return was a topic of conversation. While Morris didn't reveal much of that conversation, he came away optimistic that he could bring Campbell back to Atlanta.

Oct 15, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) / Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

"I look forward to getting a chance to sit in front of him because he's as impressive as it get when it comes to football character," Morris said, per the Falcons' official site. "He's had as impressive of a career as you can have. (There's) stuff that he still brings to the game, to us, moving forward, and I look forward to discussing that in detail with him at a later date."

Despite being in the twilight of his career, Campbell proved to be a valuable addition for the Falcons. The 37-year-old finished the season with 56 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, tied for a team-high with edge rusher Bud Dupree (who's also a free agent).

With Campbell unsigned, defensive line looks to be one of the Atlanta's biggest weaknesses right now. The Falcons heavily prioritized their offense in free agency, but made essentially no additions on defense.

If they can bring back Campbell, though, it would be a huge win for that side of the ball. Not just on the field, but in the locker room as well.