Calais Campbell is Now a Chiefs

Kansas City, MO – On March 17, 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs made a significant splash in the offseason by signing veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell, a move that could solidify their already dominant defense as they gear up for another Super Bowl run. While the Chiefs have been relatively quiet in adding outside talent this offseason, bringing in Campbell—a legendary figure entering his 18th NFL season—signals their intent to remain a powerhouse.

Campbell joins the Chiefs after a strong 2024 campaign with the Miami Dolphins, where he notched 5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and started all 17 games at age 38. Despite his age, Campbell’s performance proves he’s still a force, and his hunger for a Super Bowl ring—something he’s yet to claim—makes Kansas City an ideal destination. The Chiefs, with three straight Super Bowl appearances and two titles under their belt, offer Campbell the perfect stage to chase that elusive championship.

The pairing of Campbell with All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones is a dream scenario for Chiefs fans. Campbell brings a staggering resume: 110.5 career sacks (third among active players), a league-leading 187 tackles for loss among active players, six consecutive Pro Bowl nods from 2014 to 2020, and a First-Team All-Pro honor in 2017. His 6’8” frame, long arms, and veteran savvy will complement Jones’ explosive play, potentially creating one of the NFL’s most fearsome defensive fronts.

Analyst Cory Woodroof of USA Today had predicted this fit, stating, “Campbell deserves to at least play in another Super Bowl, and joining the Chiefs would give him an excellent chance of doing so.” Now that it’s a reality, the move seems like a no-brainer. Campbell not only bolsters the Chiefs’ defensive line—thinned by the departures of Derrick Nnadi and Tershawn Wharton—but also adds a locker-room leader for a team with championship aspirations.

Financially, the signing aligns with the Chiefs’ strategy. Spotrac projected Campbell’s market value at around $7 million for a one-year deal, a reasonable price for a player of his caliber. After restructuring contracts for Patrick Mahomes and Chris Jones to free up nearly $50 million in cap space, Kansas City had the flexibility to make this savvy addition without straining their budget.

While the Chiefs’ offseason hadn’t featured a flood of marquee signings, Campbell’s arrival changes the narrative. With his experience, skill, and hunger for a ring, he could be the final piece in Kansas City’s championship puzzle. The rest of the NFL has been put on notice: the Chiefs aren’t just competing—they’re aiming for greatness.