Because the Patriots had the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, it was apparent early on who they would ultimately select when it was their time on the clock. In the two weeks leading to the first round, LSU's left tackle, Will Campbell, was labeled the apparent choice for all the right reasons, yet there were plenty of concerns surrounding his addition to the roster.
The conversation surrounding his arm length dominated headlines leading into the draft, which became an even bigger story after the measurements from the Combine didn't match up with those taken at his Pro Day. It became a debate about his fit in the NFL as a left tackle, despite being widely considered the best tackle of the 2025 class because of his impressive college performance.
Upon his selection, Mike Vrabel shut down the worries surrounding Campbell's measurables, emphasizing that they did not show up on tape and that they believed in Campbell's character as well. He assured analysts and fans that it was not even a consideration to pass on him with their first-round pick. Campbell's initial comments to the media made his pick even better, rallying up the fans' excitement about what he will bring to the offensive line this upcoming season.
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That proved that the 21-year-old was a standup man and player, making one of the more under-the-radar parts of his college career far more significant going into the start of his NFL career.
Will Campbell's value to the Patriots roster goes beyond what he can bring on the field
Because the conversation about his arm length was mainly discussed in the days leading to the draft, there was a hyperfixation on how great of a person Campbell was, and that was a leading reason the Patriots were interested in him.
That didn't shut down the concerns surrounding his performance, but the Vrabel era will be remembered for bringing in players with the right mindset and desire to be a New England Patriot, which Campbell will highlight further after learning another aspect of his LSU tenure.
"LSU awarded him the No. 7, which is given to the best in-state playmaker the coaching staff feels elevates those around him. Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu, Leonard Fournette and Derek Stingley all previously earned the honor, with Campbell becoming the first offensive lineman to join them by way of a special patch."
So not only is the Patriots' newest left tackle an admirable person, but he's also in impressive company for his on-field production, too. That counts for a lot more after the debate surrounding his measurables, which drew many doubters to conclude he will be a mistake selection for the team down the road, as they assume he will be moved to guard.
While there is a chance it will happen, even if it's slim, Campbell has proven himself to be a playmaker and a reliable member of any offense. That matters most for New England, and they want to surround Maye with the best talent possible to elevate his game.
Campbell will be a big part of that, and the Patriots are lucky to have him.