Top Prospect Alert – The New England Patriots are wasting no time gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, and their latest move has fans and analysts buzzing. The team has officially brought in Will Campbell, a top offensive tackle from LSU, for a pre-draft visit — a clear sign that New England is serious about beefing up its offensive line.
Campbell’s visit to Foxborough is part of the team’s 30 official visits, where NFL teams can host up to 30 draft-eligible players for interviews, medical evaluations, and film breakdowns. For a franchise potentially pivoting with a new quarterback, investing in top-tier protection like Campbell is a strategic move with long-term implications.
Top Prospect Alert
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Prospect Name | Will Campbell |
| Position | Offensive Tackle (OT) |
| College | LSU (Louisiana State University) |
| NFL Draft Year | 2025 |
| Patriots Visit | Official 30-visit confirmed in March 2025 |
| Arm Length (Pro Day) | 33 inches (up from 32 5/8″ at Combine) |
| Projected Draft Range | Top 15 Pick |
| Team Need | Offensive line upgrade to protect young quarterback |
| Official Source | Pat’s Pulpit Report |
Will Campbell’s visit to Foxborough is more than just a formality — it’s a sign that the Patriots are serious about rebuilding their offense with foundational talent. In a league where protecting your quarterback is paramount, drafting a player like Campbell could be the smartest move New England makes this offseason.
Whether he lands in New England or elsewhere, Campbell is poised to make an impact early in his NFL career. For Patriots fans hoping for a return to dominance, Will Campbell might just be the first brick in a new dynasty.
Why the Patriots Are Interested in Will Campbell
A Top-Tier Tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft Class
Will Campbell isn’t just any offensive lineman — he’s widely considered one of the top offensive tackles in the 2025 draft class. At LSU, he started as a freshman and quickly made a name for himself by locking down some of the toughest edge rushers in the SEC. His quick feet, powerful hands, and strong football IQ make him a standout.
For the Patriots, who may be ushering in a new era at quarterback with top prospect Drake Maye or another rookie, protecting the blind side is non-negotiable. Campbell brings exactly what New England needs: stability, toughness, and long-term upside.
Arm Length Debate: Why It Matters
One point of conversation during Campbell’s pre-draft process has been his arm length. At the NFL Scouting Combine, his arms measured 32 5/8 inches — a shade shorter than the typical benchmark for tackles. However, at his Pro Day at LSU on March 26, he measured in at 33 inches — a significant bump.
Why does this matter? In the NFL, longer arms help tackles fend off edge rushers, and many scouts view it as a critical physical trait. But Campbell has made it clear: he’s tired of the arm-length talk. “Watch the tape,” he said. And he’s got a point — his film shows a player who dominates with technique and grit.
Will Campbell on criticism: “I don’t really care anymore. I’m just tired of talking about it… I know what I can do.”
Source: NFL.com
Why Will Campbell Fits the Patriots’ Needs?
A Troubled Offensive Line Needs Help
The Patriots allowed 40 sacks last season and struggled with consistency at the tackle position. Injuries, underperformance, and age have made the offensive line a weak link. Campbell would provide immediate competition — and likely earn a starting role early.
Protecting the Future
If the Patriots draft a new quarterback like Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy, protecting that investment will be key. Rookie QBs tend to struggle under pressure, and New England’s current offensive line won’t cut it in a division filled with elite pass rushers.
Scheme Fit and Coachability
Campbell played in a pro-style offense at LSU under Brian Kelly, and many of the concepts translate well to Bill O’Brien’s system. Coaches rave about his coachability, work ethic, and leadership. He’s the type of culture fit the Patriots love to build around.
What Scouts Are Saying About Will Campbell?
- “Campbell has elite football intelligence. He’s rarely fooled by stunts or blitzes.” — NFC Personnel Director
- “His footwork in pass protection is already NFL-ready.” — Draft Network Analysis
- “You can build an offensive line around this kid.” — CBS Sports Analyst
Campbell ranks consistently within the top 10-15 picks on mock drafts. ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. recently projected him at No. 11 overall, and several analysts have linked him to the Patriots at No. 14.
Advanced Stats: Campbell’s Performance at LSU
To better understand Campbell’s value, let’s look at some advanced stats:
- Pass Block Efficiency (2024): 97.8 (PFF Grade)
- Sacks Allowed (2024): 1 in 13 games
- Penalties Committed: 2 all season
- Run Block Win Rate: 78.4%
These numbers highlight a reliable, disciplined lineman who thrives in both pass and run protection — an ideal fit for an evolving Patriots offense.
Historical Draft Context: Patriots and Offensive Tackles
The Patriots have had mixed success with drafting offensive linemen in the first round. The last time they drafted an OT in Round 1 was Nate Solder in 2011, who went on to be a two-time Super Bowl champion.
Adding a player like Campbell could replicate that success, giving New England a franchise left tackle for years to come.
How Campbell Compares to Other Top OTs in the Draft?
| Player | School | Projected Round | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Will Campbell | LSU | 1st | Quick feet, strength, football IQ |
| Joe Alt | Notre Dame | Top 10 | Elite pass protection, size |
| JC Latham | Alabama | Top 15 | Powerful run blocker, aggressive style |
Campbell holds his own among the top names and offers a complete skill set with fewer injury concerns.
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FAQs
Who is Will Campbell?
Will Campbell is a top offensive tackle from LSU, projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He started every game in college and is known for his pass protection and physical style.
Why did the Patriots bring in Will Campbell?
The Patriots are exploring upgrades for their offensive line and hosted Campbell as part of their 30 official pre-draft visits. It shows serious interest in drafting him.
What is Will Campbell’s draft projection?
Most mock drafts place him in the Top 15 picks. He’s often linked with teams in need of offensive line help, including the Patriots, Jets, and Chargers.
What’s the concern about his arm length?
Campbell measured 32 5/8 inches at the Combine but improved to 33 inches at LSU’s Pro Day. While some scouts see this as borderline for a tackle, his on-field performance speaks volumes.
Will the Patriots draft him?
While nothing is confirmed, Campbell’s visit strongly suggests that he’s on the Patriots’ shortlist — especially if they don’t trade up or reach for a QB at their pick.
Where can I find more information on Patriots’ draft plans?
Visit the official Patriots draft tracker for updates on player visits, interviews, and team needs.
