The 2025 NFL Draft is officially in the books, and the New England Patriots came away with what looks like one of their strongest draft classes in recent years. After back-to-back four-win seasons, the team focused on building around rookie quarterback Drake Maye, and they did so with a clear, well-executed plan.
Back in February, I published a full seven-round mock draft predicting how the Pats might approach their selections. To their credit, the front office exceeded expectations in several key spots.
Still, no draft is flawless. Across each round, talented prospects remained on the board—players who could’ve helped address other pressing needs. Here’s a breakdown of who the Patriots picked, who they passed on, and what those decisions could mean moving forward.
Round 1 (Pick 4) - Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Top remaining player: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
During the draft, it was clear that Patriots brass wanted to focus on helping their franchise quarterback, and there is no better way to help out your quarterback than getting a Day 1 starter to protect his blindside. At the fourth-overall pick, the Pats selected the top left tackle in the draft, Will Campbell. Campbell excelled in his three seasons playing against NFL-ready pass rushers in the SEC, making second-team All-SEC once and first-team All-SEC twice. Campbell should be a Day 1 starter at left tackle for the Patriots.
After Campbell, the next best available tackle on the board was Armand Membou out of Missouri. A two-year starter at right tackle, Membou was named second-team All-SEC this past season. If the Patriots had drafted Membou, they would have moved him to left tackle and hoped he had a successful transition. As a result, Campbell seems like the safer and more natural fit.
At the fourth overall selection, the Patriots made the right decision. They addressed their greatest need, a high-floor, high-upside left tackle with proven production in the toughest conference in college football.