Former Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell is still dealing with the kind of family tragedy that stops everything else in its tracks.
Campbell, now with the Baltimore Ravens, said Tuesday that the last few months have been especially difficult as he and his family work through the aftermath of his mother’s death. In speaking with ESPN Baltimore’s Jamison Hensley, he thanked the people around the league and beyond who have reached out.
“I just wanted to say these last couple of months have been pretty tough for me and my family. But [I’ve] been working through it, and I really appreciate all the love and support and the prayers that have been coming from all over, really from all the NFL community, all the fan bases.
So I appreciate the prayers. Continue praying for us because we need it.”
Campbell’s 71-year-old mother, Nateal, was found dead in late June with a slit throat, and his 41-year-old brother, Ciarre Campbell, was arrested after law enforcement found him with a knife that was later identified as the murder weapon. Ciarre remains in Fulton County (Georgia) jail with no bond.
Fulton County Sheriff’s Office in Atlanta records show that police had been called to the Campbell home nine other times for domestic violence. The brother also has a history of mental illness.
Campbell had been excused from training camp to handle family matters, and there was no timetable for his return. Because he is just shy of 40 and entering his 19th NFL season, some wondered whether retirement might be next. Campbell made it clear football still has plenty of pull for him.
“I love the game of football a lot … it brings me joy. It was a little harder training, but as far as football goes, I love this game a lot.
And this is a very fun place for me to be. So playing football has been great for me.”
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