Lions' Dan Campbell Addresses Calais Campbell Rumors

The Detroit Lions are pursuing free-agent defensive tackle Calais Campbell.

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell told reporters at the league meetings that the team had interest in signing free-agent defensive tackle Calais Campbell. 

“Oh my gosh, I just keep watching it, and I’m like, ‘There’s no way he can feel good, that body can not feel good.’ But, it looks like it feels good because he’s just a force to be reckoned with," Campbell said, via MLive. "You put him in a closed end, you’re not running over there. He can rush as a 3-technique still, on third down. Man, he’s got length, he’s got size, he’s still quick. We’ll see. We’re not the only one who is on him.”

After three seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, the team made the decision to release the veteran defensive tackle, following the conclusion of the 2022 NFL season. 

"Calais defines what it is to be a Raven," general manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement. "He personifies professionalism, and his contributions to our organization, both on and off the field, are immense. With his passion, leadership and toughness, Calais has undoubtedly produced a Hall of Fame-worthy career. While this is the worst part of the business, we have not closed the door on the possibility of him returning to our team in the future."

Detroit is looking to bolster the interior of the defensive line, as both Isaiah Buggs and John Cominsky are returning to play alongside Alim McNeill in 2023. 

Levi Onwuzurike is still working his way back from surgery, after missing the entire season with a back injury. 

The team has been linked to prospects Jalen Carter and Tyree Wilson as potential first-round draft picks, both of whom would be great additions if the team is unable to secure the services of the 36-year-old ex-Ravens defensive lineman.