An overlooked reason why Packers should re-sign De’Vondre Campbell
Let’s get this out of the way: De’Vondre Campbell must be re-signed by the Green Bay Packers.
There are no other options. The former Golden Gopher had arguably the best inside linebacking season for Green Bay this century. He was named a first-team All-Pro after a career season. After recording 146 total tackles, two interceptions, two sacks, two forced fumbles, 10 pressures, five pass breakups, and six tackles for loss, Campbell finally got the recognition he deserves.
After signing a one-year, $2 million deal right before training camp, a deal that certainly told the NFL universe that he was betting on himself, he became a superstar. The Packers’ need to pay up for Campbell. He has earned every bit of whatever he wants. He completes this Packers defense. He does it all.
But the Packers do not just need to re-sign him because of his elite play. They need to bring him back in order to help guide one of his younger teammates in Krys Barnes.
Barnes will be entering his third season in the NFL. Campbell will be entering his seventh. After the addition of Campbell last year, Barnes improved. He had more tackles, more fumble recoveries, a lower completion percentage and QB rating against him in pass coverage, more passes defensed, and he even had more playing time than in his rookie season.
But statistics aside, it’s human nature to improve at something as time moves on. Campbell has been a very positive effect on Barnes. The overall play of the LB position has improved dramatically over the last year due to Campbell’s experience as well as Barnes’ youth.
The Packers need to give Campbell and Barnes more time together by giving Campbell a new contract. That is the only option. If they do, especially with a positive and excited DC in Joe Barry running the show on that side of the ball, there is no reason why this LB duo and overall defense can’t take another step.
There is no doubt that Green Bay has its hands tied with the franchise being over $40 million in the hole with the salary cap. But if they can get creative enough, the opportunity will be there to sign Campbell to whatever he thinks is respectable. Let’s get this done!