Dalen Cambre: The Unsung Leader Every Locker Room Needs
In a sport driven by explosive plays and bold headlines, Dalen Cambre has made a name for himself doing everything that matters — even when nobody’s watching.
Over the course of six seasons with the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns, Cambre became the definition of reliable. He was the guy teammates leaned on, coaches trusted, and everyone could count on. Whether it was making a game-changing play on special teams or studying opponents late into the night, Cambre brought a level of detail, leadership, and pride to the program that will leave a lasting impact.
His head coach, Michael Desormeaux, said it best: “He’s Mr. Consistent.”
Cambre’s college career was built on mastering the details — and excelling in every role he was given. He served as Louisiana’s primary holder on field goals and PATs for six straight seasons, delivering flawless execution in a job that often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. But his impact went far beyond holding.
He became one of the Cajuns’ top special teams players, finishing second in the nation in special teams tackles, according to PFF. He also delivered two massive momentum-shifting plays — one in 2023 and another in 2024 — blocking punts against Texas State and Kennesaw State, respectively. The play against Texas State in 2023 sparked a second-half rally and helped seal a comeback win. In true Cambre fashion, he gave credit where it was due.
“Those moments were about preparation and trust,” Cambre said. “The coaches believed in me, and my teammates did their jobs. I was just the one who got to finish the play.”
While his toughness and versatility are easy to see, it’s Cambre’s football IQ that truly sets him apart. He doesn’t just watch film — he studies opposing coordinators, breaks down tendencies, and builds a complete picture of what teams are trying to do.
“I love the prep. I want to know the why behind what a defense is doing — that’s where the edge is,” he said.
That understanding of the game allowed him to step in as a reserve quarterback for the Cajuns during part of his career, giving him a unique perspective that helped him become an even smarter and more well-rounded player.
When it came time for Pro Day, Cambre made sure he was ready. He trained every day leading up to the event, and the results spoke for themselves. He ran clean, fluid routes, caught everything thrown his way, and looked polished throughout the workout. Scouts noticed. He looked the part of a player who prepares the right way and handles his business like a pro.
Off the field, Cambre has been just as dependable, much like his mother Sandra Cambre. She raised him to finish what he started! He graduated with a degree in Engineering and Technology Management and a minor in Business. He was recognized with the Outstanding Senior Scholar Award, named a Team Captain, received the Burlsworth Award, and was honored as a 2024 All-American by both PFF and CFN365. He’s also served as a mentor to teammates and younger athletes throughout his time in college.
Athleticism runs in his family — his father, Mark Cambre, played JV basketball at LSU and semi-pro football for the Kenner Knights — but Dalen’s path has been uniquely his own. Built on work ethic, consistency, and doing things the right way.
Dalen Cambre is the kind of player who raises the standard everywhere he goes. He makes your special teams elite, sharpens your wide receiver room, and brings leadership and steadiness to your locker room. He’s not looking for a spotlight — just a chance to keep doing what he’s always done: show up, do the work, and be the guy everyone can count on.
“Whatever the role, I’m all in,” he said. “You’re going to get everything I’ve got, every single day.”
Akash Shankar is a Business Economics student at UCLA with a passion for football. He has worked with UCLA Football’s video operations team and is pursuing opportunities in coaching, recruiting, and player personnel.
Instagram: akashshankar_