Patriots Rumors: How Long New England ‘Had Eyes’ On Will Campbell

The Patriots drafted who they hope to be their left tackle of the future after months of work and research.

New England stood pat with the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and selected Will Campbell on Thursday. Head coach Mike Vrabel admitted the decision to pick the LSU product was “very easy,” and quarterback Drake Maye gave his seal of approval on social media.

The Patriots liked what they saw from Campbell during the pre-draft process, and meetings with the 21-year-old, while physical, helped convince them he was the right player. However, New England’s interest in Campbell dated back to last fall, according to MassLive’s Mark Daniels.

“His play at LSU was so dominant at times that the left tackle was seen as a logical fit for the Patriots,” Daniels wrote in a column. “Multiple sources told MassLive that Campbell is viewed as an instant starter at left and a ‘really good player.'”

When Jerod Mayo was fired, it wasn’t clear if Vrabel shared the same interest in Campbell as the front office. But it’s clear from how the Patriots head coach talks about the offensive lineman that he’s a big fan of what Campbell can bring on and off the field.

Campbell is set to be introduced to the organization and the fans Friday before the Patriots begin Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft.