By Blessing 
The Dallas Cowboys have clearly made it a point to reinforce their defensive line during the 2025 free agency window. So far, they’ve brought in a solid mix of talent—players with both first-round NFL Draft credentials and ties to either the franchise or the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Names like Payton Turner, Solomon Thomas, and Dante Fowler Jr. have already made their way onto the roster.
Still, there’s no ignoring the glaring issue from last season: stopping the run. Dallas ranked fourth-worst in the league, giving up a whopping 2,331 rushing yards while allowing opponents to average 4.8 yards per carry. That kind of production against them makes it hard to win consistently, and it’s a clear signal that the work isn’t done just yet when it comes to strengthening the interior.
One name that stands out as a potential difference-maker? Veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell.
Sure, Campbell is 38 years old—one of the oldest active defensive linemen in the NFL—but you wouldn’t know it from the way he played last season. On a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins in 2024, he suited up for all 17 games, racking up 52 tackles and 5 sacks. Even more impressive, he ranked among Pro Football Focus’ top 10 defensive linemen in both overall defensive grade and run defense, a testament to his impact on a tough Dolphins front.
But what makes Campbell even more appealing to the Cowboys isn’t just his production—it’s what he brings beyond the stat sheet. His experience and leadership could do wonders for a young defensive group. And the price? Likely affordable. His last contract carried just a $2 million cap hit—music to Jerry Jones’ ears.
At 6-foot-8 and 300 pounds, Campbell still commands respect on the field. He can help plug up the middle and address what many consider the Cowboys’ biggest defensive weak spot. And let’s not forget—he’s got 110 career sacks, so he’s far from just a run-stopper.
Campbell’s presence could also be a game-changer for younger players like Mazi Smith. Having a 17-year vet in Smith’s corner might be just the push the former first-round pick needs to level up both his game and professionalism. That mentorship, paired with Osa Odighizuwa, could set Dallas up for a much brighter future on the D-line.
Realistically, the Cowboys wouldn’t be looking at Campbell as a long-term solution. But for a one-year role, he checks a lot of boxes—steady production, veteran leadership, and locker room influence. Under new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, a move like this could be as much about culture as it is about tackles.
If Dallas wants a quick, impactful fix before turning to the draft, Calais Campbell might just be the right man for the job.