Commanders' bitter rival dealt surprising setback before OTAs even begin

The Dallas Cowboys begin OTAs later than most teams, with their program starting June 1. Before that start, wide receiver Parris Campbell was placed on the reserve/retired list, ending his seven-year NFL career. Campbell entered the league as a 2019 second-round pick after a strong college run at Ohio State, but early seasons were affected by injuries. He produced better results in 2022, yet the Colts did not offer a new contract. He later spent time with the Giants and Eagles, then joined Dallas during the 2025 season on a new deal. Dallas now has receiver depth led by CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, along with other players competing for roster spots.

"The Dallas Cowboys are the exception, as their OTA program does not begin until June 1. But even before the Cowboys hit the practice field to ramp up their preparations for the new campaign, they were dealt a surprising setback. Just as the Cowboys had some semblance of stability, wide receiver Parris Campbell was placed on the reserve/retired list. Instead of trying to force his way into Dallas' plans, the 2019 second-round selection has called time on his career after seven years."

"Campbell entered the league with a strong reputation after a standout college career at Ohio State. The Indianapolis Colts saw enough promise in the pass-catcher to take him No. 59 overall, but his first three years were blighted by injury problems. To Campbell's credit, he bounced back to put up some decent numbers in 2022, but the Colts didn't offer him another deal. Spells with the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles followed, but not much came from it."

"He got a new deal in Dallas this offseason after joining the organization during the 2025 season. However, the juice was obviously not there to prove himself all over again. This no doubt caught the Cowboys off guard. Even so, they have enough to cope without Campbell. They boast one of the most prolific receiver tandems in the league in CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, who is reportedly willing to play on the franchise tag without a new deal."

"Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Anthony Smith, and Jonathan Mingo are also vying for spots, but there was nothing to suggest that Campbell couldn't have done enough to go through onto the 53-man roster. He decided to walk away instead. At least Campbell is retiring on his own terms, unlike some who face health problems early in their careers. His retirement probably won't move the "

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