New England Patriots
Patriots predicted to pass on defensive superstar for high-level pass-protector
The Philadelphia Eagles won their second Super Bowl on their third appearance in the last seven years. A big part of that was an offense featuring two high-level tackles, Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson. Mailata was a 7th round draft pick, but Johnson was a blue-chip prospect taken in the top 10. No one is suggesting the New England Patriots have to follow the model set by the Eagles — and replicated by several other teams in the league. But landing a stud tackle when you have the means to do so is never a bad idea.
The Patriots might find their Mailata late in the 2025 NFL draft, but Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department is sending LSU tackle Will Campbell to New England with the fourth overall pick.
“There are some questions with Campbell’s general pro projection as a better tackle or guard,” B/R draft analyst Brandon Thorn said. “For the Patriots and their hole at tackle, there is no question that he would be slotted as Maye’s blindside protector.
“Campbell is the draft’s most well-rounded and polished offensive lineman with the power, athletic ability and demeanor to start at multiple positions and become a long-term answer—which is something this line desperately needs as it looks to build around Maye.”
All of this was done with Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter still on the board. The Colorado phenom is considered the most versatile playmaker in this draft. Such a talent isn’t necessarily expected to drop to No. 5 overall (B/R had him going fifth to Jacksonville), but it isn’t always a direct comparison.
The Patriots, now led by Mike Vrabel, might be wise to use the pick on Campbell, a player NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein compares to Taylor Decker. After all, Vrabel built much of the success he had with the Titans on the dominance of its offensive line.
