The Baltimore Ravens will be without Nnamdi Madubuike in their season opener, but another of their defensive linemen received some positive news regarding Calais Campbell. Head coach Jesse Minter confirmed that Campbell will play Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts despite the veteran defensive end not practicing Friday.
Campbell’s availability gives Baltimore an experienced and dependable presence for a difficult opening assignment. The Ravens will face a Colts offense led by quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Jonathan Taylor, making discipline up front essential. Taylor’s combination of vision, speed, and power will test Baltimore’s run defense immediately. Campbell has spent much of his career controlling blockers, setting the edge
and using his length to disrupt plays before they can develop. His presence becomes even more important with Madubuike ruled out because of a neck injury.
“He’ll be ready to roll.” Head Coach Jesse Minter with an update on Calais Campbell pic.twitter.com/qK16A5cGlk
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 11, 2026
Campbell can line up at multiple spots and should help the Ravens rotate their defensive linemen without sacrificing as much size or experience. Baltimore will still need productive performances from Travis Jones, Broderick Washington and the rest of the group, especially if Campbell’s workload is managed after he missed Friday’s practice.
The 39-year-old returned to Baltimore for what he has said will be his final NFL season, giving Sunday’s opener additional significance. Campbell will begin that farewell campaign where the Ravens need him most — in the middle of a physical matchup against one of the league’s premier running backs.
Minter did not express any uncertainty about Campbell’s status, clearing the veteran to take his place in Baltimore’s Week 1 defensive rotation.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Calais Campbell will play in Ravens’ season opener at Colts
