Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman Calais Campbell and his family are mourning the death of his mother, Nateal Campbell, 71, who was found dead at a home in Atlanta during a welfare check earlier this week.
Calais Campbell's brother, Ciarre Campbell, 41, has been charged in connection with her death, booked on charges including murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a knife.He waived his first court appearance and remains in custody as the case moves forward. His attorney, Jay Abt, said his client is innocent until proven guilty and that the family is protesting his innocence, asking that the public respect the Campbell family's privacy during this time.
The Campbell family shared a statement grounded in their faith: "We are devastated to share that the Campbell Family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell. While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." The family asked for privacy to honor her and grieve together.
Calais Campbell, a six-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman entering his 19th NFL season, has long been open about his Christian faith, crediting his upbringing and prayer life for grounding his career and philanthropy. He and his family founded the Charles Richard Campbell Foundation in memory of his late father, focused on community empowerment.
The Ravens organization extended their support, saying their hearts are with Calais Campbell and his family during what they called an unfathomable tragedy. As the investigation continues, the Campbell family's own words point to where their strength is coming from - not in the details still unfolding, but in the hope of their faith.
