Calais Campbell Confirms Patrick Mahomes’ Theory on Avoiding Hard Hits
In a recent episode of the Netflix series “Quarterback,” Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes revealed an interesting strategy he uses to avoid being hit hard by defensive players. Mahomes said that he sometimes offers complimentary words to his opponents in an effort to make them like him. While this may seem like wishful thinking, Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Calais Campbell confirms that there is some truth to Mahomes’ theory.
During a media availability session, Campbell, who has 99 sacks and 237 quarterback hits in his career, acknowledged that being nice to defensive players can actually help quarterbacks avoid taking hard hits. He stated, “Be nice because you don’t want to get hit. But there is definite truth to that.” Campbell’s experience on the field supports Mahomes’ theory, as he has noticed that some quarterbacks who are kind and respectful towards him tend to receive less aggressive treatment.
Campbell went on to mention former Indianapolis Colts star Andrew Luck as the nicest quarterback he has played against. Luck was known for complimenting his sackers, and Campbell had a half-sack and three quarterback hits on him in 2013. Campbell also mentioned Aaron Rodgers of the New York Jets as another quarterback who has been respectful towards him. Campbell has sacked Rodgers three times in his career.
However, not all quarterbacks are as smart when it comes to avoiding hard hits. Campbell paused for a moment before mentioning retired quarterback Philip Rivers as someone who was not particularly nice but never disrespectful. On the other hand, Campbell described New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones as “kind of disrespectful” based on their previous encounter. Campbell recorded a quarterback hit on Jones during their meeting last season and recalled Jones engaging in trash-talking.
While Campbell acknowledges the importance of hitting opposing quarterbacks within reason, he also recognizes that certain quarterbacks receive preferential treatment from officials. He mentioned Mahomes and recently retired Tom Brady as examples of quarterbacks who are often protected by the rules. Campbell has had numerous sacks called back in his career due to penalties, and he believes that some quarterbacks require extra caution to avoid drawing flags.
Campbell emphasized the need to balance player safety with the physicality of the game. He understands that quarterbacks are the faces of the league and that hitting them too hard can result in penalties and fines. However, he also believes that it is essential to rough up quarterbacks within the rules to maintain the integrity of the game.
In conclusion, Calais Campbell’s confirmation of Patrick Mahomes’ theory sheds light on an interesting aspect of quarterback-defensive player dynamics. Being kind and respectful towards defensive players can indeed help quarterbacks avoid taking hard hits. While some quarterbacks understand this strategy and use it to their advantage, others may not be as aware. Campbell’s insights provide valuable perspective on the delicate balance between player safety and maintaining the physicality of the game.