New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye might not feel comfortable with his blindside protection early in the upcoming season.
Following troubles at left tackle in 2024, the Patriots invested in the position by drafting LSU standout Will Campbell with the No. 4 pick in April’s draft.
Per Chad Graff of The Athletic, Campbell has been trending down at training camp this summer.
“All eyes are on him every practice, which is a tough spot for a rookie,” Graff wrote of Campbell. “So far, he’s been about what you’d expect from a rookie. He has some strong moments, particularly in the running game. But there have been struggles in the passing game. He’s been beaten for a sack in just about every practice, which isn’t great considering he’s usually on the field each practice for only 15 or so passing plays in full-team drills.
“He tends to get beaten to the inside after oversetting, and it probably doesn’t help that the Pats don’t yet know who their left guard is next to him. Still, extrapolate those numbers, and that’s allowing two sacks each NFL game if you throw the ball 30 times. Not great.”
Graff believes the future is “bright” for Campbell, but doesn’t think he will be a top-20 left tackle in 2025.
NFL scouts had questions before the draft about Campbell’s 32⅝ inch (or 33 inches, depending on whether one believes the league or LSU) arm length. Some suggested he’d be better suited to play guard in the league than left tackle.
If Campbell continues to give up sacks, the Patriots might consider moving the 21-year-old to the interior part of the offensive line.
Per OurLads, Campbell is projected to win the left tackle starting job for Week 1. If Campbell doesn’t develop quickly in the preseason, Maye’s progress as a thrower in the pocket could take a hit in the upcoming season.
