Despite weapons and pass rushers still being on the board, the New England Patriots opted to select tackle Will Campbell the No. 4 overall pick in April's draft. The LSU alum was given a lot of scrutiny throughout the pre-draft process about his arm length and whether or not that could translate to struggles on the outside.
In truth, this is a trait that isn't always indicative of what will happen at the next level. With that said, there is no denying Campbell isn't making the best impression early in camp.
Keion White asked about Will Campbell, says Campbell has picked his brain and always bounces back after poor reps.
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) August 4, 2025
“He learns, and he comes back better, and that's the best thing that you can do as a rookie because there's gonna be learning curve.” pic.twitter.com/XbYzd7oe9n
Patriots Rookie Will Campbell Continues Early Camp Struggles
How Campbell is being beaten is perhaps the most concerning, as there's not just one clear hole in the rookie's game. It has brought expectations down to earth of the franchise becoming a surprise wildcard contender.
The more pressing issue right now is whether or not inserting Campbell in the lineup is going to put Drake Maye in harm's way. No matter the answer, the franchise has committed to this based on spending the 4th overall selection on the tackle.
If Campbell were working on the inside or even at right tackle, the struggles might be a bit easier to swallow. However, working a young quarterback's blindside requires a certain level of trust. Getting beaten happens during games, but he has to be able to buy Maye time to protect himself at the very least.
New England's depth at the position remains underwhelming, with Demontrey Jacobs currently listed at the second option. Even if the organization had a superior answer, it is hard to believe they would be willing to turn to it before giving Campbell at least half the season to attempt to adjust to the next level.
Not only has this brought Pats fans back to earth, it has left them concerned about the well-being of their franchise quarterback. Maye has shown incredible instincts and was able to help elevate a bad team in the 2024 season. Protecting and developing this moving forward is the most important job of the franchise moving forward.
Given we're still into early into camp, hopefully preseason reps will be kinder to the concerning rookie.