Ravens release veteran DE Calais Campbell

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — The Baltimore Ravens released veteran defensive end Calais Campbell on Monday.

The 36-year-old Campbell announced last month he was coming back for a 16th NFL season. He played the past three seasons for the Ravens, and he signed a two-year deal with them before last season.

“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,” Baltimore general manager Eric DeCosta said.

The Ravens have needed to deal with salary cap issues prior to the start of free agency. They put the $32.4 million franchise tag on star quarterback Lamar Jackson earlier this month.

Campbell had 5 1/2 sacks — his most since 2019 — in 14 games in 2022. He has a chance to achieve a major milestone, entering the 2023 season with 99 sacks. The six-time Pro Bowler has played 227 games with Arizona, Jacksonville and Baltimore.

“Calais defines what it is to be a Raven. He personifies professionalism, and his contributions to our organization — both on and off the field — are immense,” DeCosta said. “With his passion, leadership and toughness, Calais has undoubtedly produced a Hall of Fame-worthy career.”

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