Baltimore Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell spoke publicly Tuesday for the first time since his brother was arrested and charged in connection with the death of their mother, Nateal Campbell.
Campbell addressed the situation during a media session and said his family has been dealing with a painful stretch for months. ESPN’s Jamison Hensley shared video of his remarks.
“I just wanted to say these last couple months have been pretty tough for me and my family but we’re working through it. And I really appreciate all the love and support and the prayers that have been coming from over really from all the NFL community - all the fanbases, and you guys as well.”
He later thanked people for the support before turning the conversation back to football.
“So, I appreciate the prayers. Continue praying for us because we need it but [I’m] happy to be answering football questions you got for me.”
Authorities in Atlanta arrested Campbell’s brother, Ciarre Campbell, in July after the death of Nateal Campbell. Atlanta Police Department officers were called to a welfare check at a townhouse in Buckhead and found the 71-year-old dead inside the home. Police also came across a male suspect who had barricaded himself inside.
Officers eventually went into the property and detained Ciarre Campbell, 41. He faces charges of murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm or knife in connection with the case.
The family had already announced Nateal Campbell’s death in a statement at the end of June and asked for privacy as the investigation continued.
“We are devastated to share that the Campbell Family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell.
While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We ask for privacy at this time so that we may honor her and share in our overwhelming grief privately and as a family.”
Campbell has now shifted back to preparing for the 2026 NFL season with Baltimore. The 39-year-old returned to the Ravens this offseason for another run with the team as they get ready for the regular season and look to stay in the AFC contender mix.
Speaking for the first time since his family tragedy, Calais Campbell said the past few months have been tough for his family and asks for the prayers to keep coming in pic.twitter.com/JDhucQL7NY
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) August 18, 2026
Tuesday’s comments were his first public words on the family tragedy since the arrest, and they made clear how much the loss has weighed on him and the people around him.
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