Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel nixed Calais Campbell’s deal with the Ravens before the November 5th trade deadline

McDaniel couldn’t resist cutting one of their team leaders and defensive stars, even if it meant saving some money and bringing back a 2026 fifth-rounder for a team that was 2-6 at the time and didn’t have much hope of turning things around.

McDaniel valued the leadership and maintained faith in his team.

Maybe there was a chance the Dolphins could turn things around, and if so, Campbell would certainly help. If there was anything to play in late November and December, they would want him on the field.

The Dolphins have since won two straight contests to return to 4-6. Heading into today’s home game against the 3-8 Patriots, they have a chance to get within .500 of a tie.

The play of the 2019 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award winner is one reason why.

Miami is home for Campbell, one reason it took him much less money to ultimately sign a one-year, $2 million deal with the Dolphins. A move to the Ravens, who are second in the AFC North and have Super Bowl aspirations, would have brought him back to where he thrived from 2020-2022 and earned a Pro Bowl nod in his first season there .

While the deal was pending, Campbell even believed it would be negotiated, according to sources. A lot of people did it. Instead, thanks to McDaniel, he stayed in Miami and led the attack back.

Campbell, 38, made headlines in the Dolphins’ Week 10 win over the Los Angeles Rams by intercepting two passes, recording a sack and helping lead a four-sack push – and then scoring baskets in celebration.

“For us to get where we want to go,” Campbell said after the game, “we have to keep fighting and keep believing.”

He also had a sack in Miami’s win over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 11. Although it won’t be an easy road to the playoffs, there are still four combined games against the Patriots, Jets and Browns on the schedule.

When it happens, Campbell will be there.