The New England Patriots had three top options with their No. 4 pick. After a wild top-three picks, the Patriots got their franchise left tackle in LSU’s Will Campbell.
This might have been the least surprising selection within the first four picks. Campbell is excited to extend his football career, but he is even more excited to play for the Patriots under first-year head coach Mike Vrabel.
After being drafted by New England, Campbell was asked about joining the Patriots’ culture being developed by Vrabel.
“That logo speaks for itself," Campbell said on the broadcast. "You know, Coach Vrabel is the guy who I want to play for. He’s a football guy, no BS and I’ve loved everything and everybody since the first time I stepped in there. So it's a complete honor to be able to have this hat on right now.”
Instead of trading down for additional picks and another offensive lineman, the Patriots secured the best blindside blocker in the draft.
Despite adding some veteran pieces, the offensive line still needed a significant upgrade after allowing 52 sacks last season, tied for the fifth-most in the league.
The Patriots also had the league’s least productive passing offense, even with a promising rookie season from quarterback Drake Maye. Now, the Patriots are counting on Campbell to anchor the left side at an All-Pro level for the next decade.
New England fans who want a bigger splash will love him as the franchise and Campbell share mutual respect and a desire to win moving forward.
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