Dolphins Pondering a Move that Could Fix Vikings Interior DL Problems Immediately

By Ted Schwerzler |

Updated: Dec 28, 2024

The Minnesota Vikings used last offseason and 2024 NFL Draft to address a handful of issues on the defensive side of the ball. Brian Flores was handed a veteran standout at corner, in Stephon Gilmore, to shore up the CB position. They also added linebackers, Blake Cashman, Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard.

Calais Campbell may be released by Miami Dolphins

Former 2nd round pick Calais Campbell is 38 years old and still seeking his first ring. The future Hall of Famer signed with the Miami Dolphins this offseason but they are on the verge of elimination. Should they come up short, they could do the 17-year veteran a favor and waive him.

…the expectation is that this will be Campbell’s final game with the Dolphins – for this season – unless Miami’s still in the playoff hunt in the regular-season finale against the New York Jets.

Campbell and the Dolphins have discussed his release, which would need to happen before next week’s season finale, giving him an opportunity to latch on to a team competing for the Super Bowl.

“I’m cherishing this moment. I feel like this team has so much potential. We’re so much better than how we’ve been playing. But I want a chance to win it all.”
Calais Campbell on the Miami Dolphins (Miami Herald)

After a dreadful start to the year, Miami has clawed back. Their playoff hopes remain on life support though, and Campbell has given the team everything he can. During his lone season with the Dolphins, Campbell has four sacks, 46 tackles, and 10 quarterback hits through 15 games.

Calais Campbell’s still got it at age 38 💪

📺: #JAXvsMIA on CBS/Paramount+
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/92e4rJYZkw
— NFL (@NFL) September 8, 2024

Minnesota Vikings would reportedly be interested in Campbell

It’s that level of production that would immediately be beneficial for a contending team. Campbell has previously played for the Baltimore Ravens and they are in the hunt. The Miami Herald’s Omar Kelly also sees the Minnesota Vikings as a suitor.

But the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings are also expected to be interested, and might put in a waiver claim to strengthen their cause, and prevent a front runner like the Chiefs from adding the defensive lineman who ranks third in active sacks.
Omar Kelly on Campbell’s potential landing spots (Miami Herald)

Maybe Campbell decides he’s not done after this season. There’s a possibility that he returns at 39 years old. After all, he remains among the best defensive tackles in the league. Miami could better position themselves for a reunion if they let him go and chase a ring.

The Vikings interior on both lines has been a struggle thus far in 2024. Harrison Phillips, Jonathan Bullard, and Jerry Tillery have done their best to hold it down. Phillips is the leader of that group in sacks but has just two, and is often fighting tougher opposition.

Minnesota is seeking a chance to do something special during a season in which no one expected them to compete. Campbell would add to the age of an already elderly group. If he can produce at this level though, that works just fine for a short term fix.