The lack of priests has little to do with celibacy requirements. It was never an issue years ago. I’m going to guess that the drop in priests started in the 60’s for various reasons.
If you study the history of the Catholic Church, you will see that priests, bishops, and popes were married. The celibacy requirement was put into full force in the Middle Ages. I suppose we could debate the reasons for this change in policy unendingly. However, the transmission of Church property was certainly a factor.
If you study the Bible closely, you will find many passages where celibacy is encouraged under certain circumstances, you will find no passages where it is a requirement for serving in the priesthood.