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SAD NEWS: Former 2x Pro Bowl Jaguars star expresses desire to “return home,” considering a one-day contract to retire in Jacksonville colors at age 39 as playoff dreams slowly fade

Jacksonville, Florida – As the NFL enters the quietest stretch of the offseason, an emotional piece of news has begun to ripple through Jaguars Nation. Calais Campbell, the former defensive cornerstone and cultural icon of the Jacksonville Jaguars, is reportedly seriously considering a “return home” — signing a one-day contract to retire in the colors that helped define his legacy. At 39, after nearly two decades of battles, Campbell is standing at the edge of a rare closing chapter.

At present, Campbell has just wrapped up the season with the Arizona Cardinals and is set to become a free agent as his one-year deal expires. In recent comments, he indicated that he plans to spend the first one to two months of the 2026 offseason reflecting before making a final decision. If he chooses to continue, it would mark a 19th NFL season — a milestone reached by very few defensive linemen. Still, retirement now feels more real than ever.

To the Jacksonville Jaguars, Campbell was never just another player. He was the soul of a brief but brilliant resurgence. From 2017 to 2019, Campbell earned two Pro Bowl selections in Jacksonville colors and played a central role in the team’s run to the AFC Championship Game in 2017 — a season that brought the franchise within one step of the Super Bowl. He was also named the 2019 Walter Payton Man of the Year, symbolizing excellence both on the field and in the community.

NFL Honors: Jaguars' Calais Campbell named 2019 Walter Payton NFL Man of  the Year - CBS Sports

Anyone who shared the Jaguars locker room during that era understands Campbell’s impact. He set the standard, became the steady voice in moments of chaos, and served as the emotional backbone of the team. “Jacksonville gave me more than a contract. It’s the place where I became the most complete version of myself,” Campbell once said in a private conversation — words that reflect a bond far deeper than football.

If the Jaguars ultimately give Campbell the chance to sign a one-day contract and retire, it would be more than a formality. It would be a proper farewell for a leader whose influence extended from the field into the heart of the community. As playoff dreams fade and time continues forward, “returning home” may be the most complete ending of all. For Calais Campbell, it wouldn’t be loud — but it would be unforgettable. 

Donald Driver is a HALL OF FAMER. Undrafted. Homeless as a Kid. Super Bowl Champion.
  Donald Driver: A Hall of Fame Journey That Green Bay Will Never Forget For football fans across Green Bay and beyond, the news of Donald Driver’s Pro Football Hall of Fame nomination was less of a surprise and more of a long-awaited celebration. A player who spent his entire career with the Green Bay Packers, Driver’s legacy is firmly etched in the hearts of fans, his name synonymous with grit, loyalty, and the embodiment of Packers football. A Legacy Built on Grit and Loyalty Driver’s career is the epitome of perseverance. The former seventh-round draft pick, once an overlooked draft choice, carved out a legendary place for himself in Packers history. With 743 receptions, over 10,000 receiving yards, and 61 touchdowns to his name, Driver’s stats alone would cement his place in history. But his story extends far beyond numbers. Known for his toughness and unwavering dedication to the team, Driver became the symbol of the blue-collar work ethic that has come to define the Green Bay Packers. He played through the cold, the rain, and the snow, always giving his best—no matter the conditions, no matter the challenges. His unforgettable 90-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers in 2010 remains one of the greatest individual efforts in Packers history, a testament to his relentless drive and determination. But it wasn’t just his on-field feats that made Driver beloved. His loyalty to the Packers—remaining with the team through his entire 14-season career—made him one of the rare examples of a player who gave everything to one franchise. Fans still remember his emotional retirement ceremony, walking through the snow at Lambeau Field one last time, tears in his eyes, heart on his sleeve, and the legacy of his career living on forever. The Hall of Fame Nomination: A Symbol of More Than Just Stats Driver’s Hall of Fame nomination is a recognition of his character as much as his accomplishments. It’s a tribute to his story of perseverance, rising from hardship and poverty to become one of the most respected and beloved players in NFL history. From living in a U-Haul truck as a child to becoming a Super Bowl champion, Driver’s journey is a narrative that resonates far beyond the football field. Even his rivals, including those from the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, and Detroit Lions, have acknowledged his greatness, recognizing him as a player who earned respect with every snap. His story is about more than just touchdowns; it’s about hard work, dedication, and the embodiment of the spirit of Green Bay football. More Than a Football Player: A Role Model for the Community Off the field, Driver’s impact is just as profound. Through his foundation, charity work, and community programs, Driver has been a pillar in Green Bay. He mentored children, supported single parents, and worked tirelessly to improve literacy across Wisconsin. His annual charity events became community staples, not because of his fame, but because of his genuine desire to make a difference. Teammates often describe Driver as the most genuine person in the room—kind, compassionate, and full of warmth. His reputation as a role model extends far beyond the locker room, making his Hall of Fame nomination a celebration of not just a football player, but a true community leader. The Road to Canton Begins: A Well-Deserved Honor As the months go by and the debate continues, there is little question among Packers fans: Donald Driver belongs in Canton. His career has been defined not just by his statistics, but by his impact, his leadership, and his heart. Few players can claim to have done it all—excelled on the field, represented their team with pride, and made a lasting difference off the field. As the nomination spreads across the NFL, one thing is clear: Driver’s legacy is one of the most inspiring in the history of the sport. His story embodies everything the Hall of Fame stands for. His career is a testament to perseverance, heart, and the spirit of football. A Moment Green Bay Will Never Forget As the sun rises over Lambeau Field, and fans look toward Canton with pride, they’ll remember Driver’s incredible journey. From the child fighting to survive to the Packers legend heading to the Hall of Fame, his story is one of triumph, heart, and hard work. Today, Packers Nation can proudly say: “Congratulations, Donald Driver — you’ve always been a Hall of Famer in the hearts of Green Bay. Now, the world finally sees it too.”