Packers Nearing Deal With Former Pro Bowler to Address Defensive Line Struggles in Disrupting QBs

Green Bay, WI – July 19, 2025

The Green Bay Packers are reportedly close to finalizing a deal with former Pro Bowler Calais Campbell, sources tell ESPN, as the team seeks to bolster its defensive line’s ability to disrupt quarterbacks ahead of training camp. With camp set to open on July 22 at the Don Hutson Center, this move could be a pivotal upgrade for a unit that ranked 18th in pressure rate (21.9%) and tied for 10th in sacks (43) during the 2024 season, per Pro-Football-Reference.

Campbell, 39, was released by the Atlanta Falcons on July 10 after a solid 2024, where he notched 35 tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles, earning a 70.8 PFF pass rush grade. His experience and productivity make him an ideal fit for Green Bay, which struggled to consistently pressure quarterbacks after trading Preston Smith midseason. “We’re in advanced talks with Calais,” a source close to the negotiations told The Green Bay Press-Gazette. “It’s about adding a veteran who can make an instant impact.”

The Packers’ defensive line has been a concern, with young players like Lukas Van Ness (4 sacks in 2024) and Brenton Cox Jr. showing promise but lacking consistency. The draft additions of edge rusher Colby Wooden (Round 4, 2024) and safety Javon Bullard (Round 2, 2024) have fortified other areas, but the pass rush remains a weak link. GM Brian Gutekunst emphasized the need: “Calais brings proven production and leadership,” he said in a statement on Packers.com.

Campbell’s role would be rotational, supporting Van Ness and mentoring Wooden and Cox, while adding depth amid injuries to Rashan Gary (knee) entering camp. His five Pro Bowl selections (2014-2015, 2016-2017 with Arizona, 2019 with Jacksonville) and 105.5 career sacks, per NFL.com, signal his value. However, his age and a potential $8-10 million salary request pose cap challenges, with the Packers holding a $6.2 million deficit, per Spotrac.

Fans on X are optimistic, with @CheeseheadPride posting, “Campbell to Green Bay? Defense just got real!” and @PackersFuture noting, “OTAs showed our D-line needs this.” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport added, “If signed, Campbell could be the veteran boost the Packers’ pass rush desperately needs.”

As training camp nears, the potential signing of Campbell reflects a strategic push to address a critical flaw. The Packers, coming off an 11-6 season in 2024 with playoff hopes dashed by a wild-card loss, aim to challenge the Detroit Lions in the NFC North. Can this veteran addition ignite a Super Bowl run under Jordan Love’s leadership? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates on this developing story.