Calais Campbell never expected to join the Atlanta Falcons. The veteran defensive end didn't know exactly what his free agent market would look like, but figured multiple franchises would show interest.
Atlanta was not on his list.
Then Campbell got on the phone with Falcons coach Arthur Smith. They spoke for about 20 minutes. Smith sold his vision for Campbell, their plans for what he and general manager Terry Fontenot are trying to build in Atlanta.
Campbell is 36 years old. He wanted to go to a place where his impact would be felt on and off the field.