Cardinals Cover 2 - New Year’s Resolution: Be More Like Calais Campbell

·36 min·3 clips

Calais Campbell, at 39 in his 18th season, might be suiting up for the Arizona Cardinals for the last time on Sunday.

The episode opens with New Year's reflections before pivoting to its main topic: Calais Campbell. The hosts detail Campbell's incredible longevity, noting he is 39 years old in his 18th season and one of only three defensive linemen in NFL history to play more games. They discuss his consistent production, including 6.5 sacks this season and his 15th year with five or more sacks, placing him alongside Hall of Famers like Reggie White. The central question is whether Sunday's game will be Campbell's last with the Cardinals or in the NFL entirely. The hosts explore the multifaceted decision Campbell faces, involving his physical recovery, family considerations, and his desire to retire on his own terms. They debate his Hall of Fame credentials, acknowledging his strong case due to longevity and consistency, though noting the unique evaluation for interior defensive linemen. The conversation shifts to Parris Johnson Jr., who won the Pro Football Writers Association's Good Guy Award for his consistent and honest availability to the media, especially during a difficult season. Injury updates are provided: Marvin Harrison Jr. and Keaton Crawford are ruled out for Sunday, while Garrett Williams (Achilles surgery) and Walter Nolan (knee surgery) face lengthy recoveries that will impact 2026 roster planning. The episode then previews the season finale against the Los Angeles Rams. A key subplot is the battle for the NFL receptions title, as Cardinals tight end Trey McBride and Rams receiver Puka Nacua are tied with 119 catches. The hosts praise McBride's breakout season, comparing him to top receivers, and discuss Michael Wilson's near-1,000-yard receiving year and potential contract extension. The episode concludes with lighthearted banter about New Year's plans and signing off.

As heard by us

A New Year's conversation turns into a measured case for Calais Campbell's standard of professionalism.

Calais Campbell gives Cardinals Cover 2 a clear organizing question: how long can a player who matters both on and off the field keep shaping a team?

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Why you'd press play

You get Calais Campbell's on-field and off-field impact, Parrish Johnson Jr.'s media respect, and a New Year's Eve detour with Cardinals context.

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