The New England Patriots stand at a crossroads heading into Thursday night’s first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
With the fourth overall pick in their pocket, the Patriots have options, but one name continues to circulate more than others in draft circles – LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell.
Fresh reports suggest the Patriots’ interest in Campbell runs deeper than mere draft rumors.
NFL insider Jeremy Fowler recently shared significant intel about the team’s late pre-draft activities.
“#Patriots brass traveled to Louisiana in recent days to visit with LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell, per sources. New England has been linked to the All-American tackle with its No. 4 overall pick and is doing more work on him late in the process,” Fowler wrote.
#Patriots brass traveled to Louisiana in recent days to visit with LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell, per sources.
New England has been linked to the All-American tackle with its No. 4 overall pick and is doing more work on him late in the process. pic.twitter.com/r1sm3WjT73
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 24, 2025
This last-minute visit speaks volumes about New England’s draft strategy, especially considering how the draft board appears to be shaping up.
Draft analysts have largely settled on a consensus top three: quarterback Cam Ward heading to the Tennessee Titans, versatile defender Travis Hunter landing with the Cleveland Browns, and edge rusher Abdul Carter being selected by the New York Giants.
If this scenario plays out, the Patriots will face a defining moment at pick number four.
Do they stay put and take Campbell, addressing their offensive line needs? Or do they entertain trade offers to move down and collect additional assets?
The organization’s continued focus on Campbell suggests they view the LSU standout as a cornerstone piece for their offensive line rebuild.
Even in the unlikely scenario where Carter falls past the Giants, most draft experts still project Campbell as the Patriots’ selection.
Carter’s potential availability would certainly test New England’s draft board, particularly since many talent evaluators rank him closely alongside Hunter as one of this class’s elite defenders.
