FOXBOROUGH – Being a rookie starting left tackle in the NFL is a formidable challenge, but Will Campbell is rising to the occasion. The fourth overall pick in the draft has adapted well to the New England Patriots and is proving himself against a string of elite pass rushers in his first four weeks.
In a standout performance against the Carolina Panthers, Campbell held his ground, allowing no quarterback hits or sacks while maintaining a penalty-free status in the Patriots’ decisive victory. His business-like approach has been crucial to his success so far in the league.
“I feel like it’s going good. I’m excited we got a win last week. Keep trying to get better,” Campbell stated, emphasizing his motivation: “They pay me to do my job. Just go out there and do my job to my best ability. Play hard. Just try to help the team in any way I can.”
The schedule has not favored the Patriots’ offensive line, as they have faced several Pro Bowl defensive linemen, including Maxx Crosby, T.J. Watt, and Bradley Chubb. This upcoming weekend presents yet another tough test against the formidable duo of Joey Bosa and Ed Oliver from the Buffalo Bills.
With each passing week, Campbell’s confidence is evident, and he credits much of that to the preparation he receives during practice. “I think it all starts in the week whenever we’re practicing,” he explained. “A great practice leads to confidence on Sunday. Whenever you see looks throughout the week, it really gets us ready every single day.”
Over the last month, Campbell has shown noticeable improvement. After allowing a sack and two false starts in his debut, he demonstrated solid performance in Miami despite another false start, and faced some struggles in Pittsburgh with two sacks and two quarterback hits. However, last week marked his breakthrough, as he finished without allowing any pressures or penalties.
Head coach Mike Vrabel praised Campbell’s dedication and the consistency he has shown in practice. “There’s a unique consistency, professionalism about the time that he shows up and the time he meets with coaches, the way that he studies or practices,” Vrabel noted. “It just kind of keeps building positive days upon each other.”
As Campbell continues to develop and build on this promising start, the Patriots and their fans are optimistic about what lies ahead for this rising star on the offensive line.