New England Patriots - NESN.com
In Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season against the Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots rookie offensive tackle Will Campbell made his third career start, and he wasn’t entirely effective against the Steelers’ aggressive pass rush. While Campbell was perfect in preventing any sacks, he did allow seven pressures.
Campbell was more effective in the prior two games, showing Patriots fans that the rookie’s ongoing development — though promising — won’t always be linear, especially in 2025.
That said, on the whole, Campbell looks like he might end up being a reliable piece of New England’s O-line for years to come, which would do much to silence his critics.
Campbell entered the NFL with questions surrounding his arm length, which measured 32 5/8 inches at the combine and 33 inches at LSU’s pro day—shorter than the typical benchmark for elite tackles. Critics worried this might limit his ability to handle speed rushers or powerful bull rushes, potentially forcing a move inside to guard.
However, many scouts remained unconcerned, viewing his technique, athleticism and college production as overriding factors. The Patriots, selecting him fourth overall in the 2025 NFL draft, bet on Campbell’s potential to anchor their line and help protect young quarterback Drake Maye.
More so than his showing against the Steelers, Campbell’s Week 2 performance against the Miami Dolphins, where he permitted just one pressure in 33 pass-protection snaps, showed why he’s a special talent.
The rookie’s quick adaptation thus far in the NFL dispels doubts about his physical traits. At 21 years old, starting every snap on a revamped line, Campbell has a chance to stabilize the left side alongside fellow rookie Jared Wilson.
Overall, Campbell’s Week 3 effort reinforces that there’s still a ton of room for growth for him, as well as some bright spots already. While the Patriots’ offense still seeks consistency, Campbell’s protection for Maye has enabled some explosive plays. If this trajectory holds, Campbell could emerge as one of the draft’s steals, proving arm length concerns were overblown in favor of his skill and football IQ.
