Will Campbell LSU OT Emerges as Top NFL Draft Prospect for 2026
Will Campbell represents the gold standard of offensive tackle play in college football today. The 6’6″, 323-pound LSU junior has established himself as not just a cornerstone of the Tigers’ offensive line, but as a legitimate top NFL prospect. Campbell’s combination of elite footwork, powerful hands, and exceptional football IQ has made him one of the most coveted offensive linemen in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Many scouts project him as a potential top-10 selection.
The Monroe, Louisiana native has been nothing short of dominant since arriving in Baton Rouge. Campbell earned consensus All-American honors and established himself as a two-time team captain, showcasing leadership qualities that NFL teams covet. His development has been remarkable – starting 31 career games at left tackle in LSU’s pass-heavy offense, where he’s consistently graded as one of the nation’s premier pass protectors.
When evaluating Campbell’s pro potential, it’s worth noting how seamlessly his skill set translates to Sundays. He combines exceptional athleticism with technical refinement rarely seen in collegiate tackles. Campbell’s performance against Florida last season, where he helped the Tigers rack up 528 yards of offense, earned him SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week honors and highlighted why NFL teams are already penciling his name into their first-round draft boards.
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Will Campbell’s Early Years and Recruitment
Will Campbell emerged as one of Louisiana’s premier football talents during his high school years. His impressive physical attributes and technical skills caught the attention of major college programs, with LSU ultimately securing the hometown star.
High School Career
Will Campbell dominated the trenches at Neville High School in Monroe, Louisiana. Standing at an imposing 6’6″, the offensive tackle showcased exceptional footwork and hand technique rarely seen in high school prospects.
During his senior season, Campbell earned five-star status and was ranked as the nation’s No. 5 offensive tackle. His combination of size, strength, and technical refinement made him the No. 1 recruit in Louisiana.
Campbell’s high school accolades included All-State honors and selection to prestigious All-American games. What separated him from peers was his advanced pass protection skills and ability to drive defenders in the run game.
Recruitment by LSU
Campbell’s recruitment process culminated with him following what he described as his “childhood dreams” to LSU. Despite receiving offers from virtually every elite program in the country, the Monroe native’s connection to the Tigers proved decisive.
The five-star prospect represented a major recruiting win for the LSU coaching staff. Landing the state’s top talent was crucial for a program that prides itself on keeping Louisiana’s best at home.
Campbell’s commitment to LSU came with expectations of immediate playing time. His polished technique and SEC-ready frame suggested he could contribute early, unlike many offensive line prospects who require development time.
His signing bolstered an already strong LSU recruiting class and signaled the Tigers’ continued ability to attract elite offensive line talent.
College Football Journey at LSU
Will Campbell arrived at LSU as a highly-touted recruit and quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Tigers’ offensive line. His development from freshman starter to All-American tackle showcases one of college football’s most impressive trajectory arcs.
Freshman Season Overview
Campbell wasted no time making his mark at LSU, stepping into the starting left tackle role as a true freshman in 2022. The Monroe, Louisiana native started all 13 games at the critical position, an extraordinary feat for a first-year player in the SEC trenches.
The 6’6″, 323-pound tackle showed remarkable poise for a young player. His freshman campaign wasn’t without growing pains, but Campbell’s natural talent was evident from day one.
What impressed coaches most was his recovery ability. When beaten on a play, Campbell rarely made the same mistake twice – a trait that accelerated his development curve.
Campbell earned Freshman All-SEC honors while protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels’ blind side, allowing the offense to function at a high level despite his youth and inexperience.
Development Under Brian Kelly
Campbell’s growth accelerated under Brian Kelly’s coaching staff. The regime change proved beneficial for his technique refinement and mental approach to the game.
Kelly’s staff implemented structured development plans that transformed Campbell from a raw talent to a polished technician. His hand placement, footwork, and understanding of leverage improved dramatically between years one and two.
What separated Campbell was his football IQ. By his sophomore year, he was calling out defensive alignments and helping coordinate protection schemes.
“Will sees the game through a coach’s eyes,” Kelly noted midway through the 2023 season. “He processes information at a different level than most linemen his age.”
Campbell’s remarkable development was evident in pass protection, where he reduced his pressure rate by 38% from freshman to sophomore year.
Statistical Highlights and Key Games
Campbell’s statistical résumé stands as one of the most impressive among offensive linemen in recent LSU history. Over three seasons, he allowed just 5 total sacks across thousands of snaps – a testament to his consistency and skill level.
Campbell’s Performance Metrics
| Season | Games Started | Sacks Allowed | Pressure Rate | Run Block Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 13 | 3 | 4.9% | 78.3 |
| 2023 | 13 | 1 | 3.0% | 84.1 |
| 2024 | 13 | 1 | 2.3% | 87.6 |
His standout performance came against Alabama in 2023, where he neutralized one of the nation’s premier edge rushers for four quarters. The Tigers upset the Crimson Tide in a game that showcased Campbell’s elite potential.
In the 2024 SEC Championship game, Campbell dominated the line of scrimmage, helping LSU rush for over 200 yards against a top-5 defense. This performance solidified his status as a consensus All-American and top draft prospect.
NFL scouts particularly note his performance in high-leverage situations. On third downs, Campbell allowed pressure on just 1.8% of pass-blocking snaps.
Technical Analysis of Skills
Will Campbell brings a rare blend of athleticism and technique to the offensive tackle position. His physical tools are complemented by refined technical skills that have scouts buzzing about his NFL readiness and long-term potential.
Offensive Tackle Technique
Campbell displays exceptional technique for a player his size. His hand placement is consistently inside the defender’s frame, giving him control at the point of attack. What separates him from other tackles is his ability to reset his hands when defenders attempt to swat them away.
His footwork is remarkably polished for a college tackle. Campbell rarely crosses his feet and maintains a wide base throughout his sets. This foundation allows him to redirect against counter moves.
Watch Campbell’s game film and you’ll notice his balance is rarely compromised. Even when bull-rushed by powerful edge defenders, he absorbs contact while maintaining his technique.
His kick-slide is smooth and efficient, allowing him to reach his set point before speed rushers can turn the corner.
Pass Protection Abilities
Campbell’s pass protection skills are where he truly shines as an NFL prospect. His ability to mirror defenders is rare for someone with his massive frame. The explosiveness out of his stance gives him an early advantage against speed rushers.
Despite questions about his arm length measurements, Campbell compensates with impeccable timing and punch placement. He understands angles exceptionally well, which allows him to wall off edge rushers effectively.
His anchor against power rushers stands out on film. Campbell demonstrates consistent anchor and fluid recovery ability when initially pushed backward.
| Pass Protection Metric | Rating (1-10) | Draft Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Block Win Rate | 9.2 | 1st among OT |
| Pressures Allowed | 11 | 2nd among OT |
| True Pass Sets | 8.7 | 3rd among OT |
Run Blocking Proficiency
Campbell brings a nasty finishing mentality to the run game that NFL teams covet. His lower body strength allows him to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage consistently. He excels at creating initial movement on down blocks.
His ability to reach the second level is impressive for his size. Campbell takes proper angles to linebackers and delivers punishing blocks in space. This skill makes him scheme-versatile for zone or gap running systems.
Campbell shows good awareness on combination blocks, knowing when to pass off defenders to teammates. His timing on these blocks demonstrates high football IQ and understanding of defensive flow.
Where he sometimes struggles is maintaining blocks against technically sound defenders who can counter his initial push. However, his recovery ability and grip strength often allow him to regain leverage.
Physical and Athletic Attributes
Will Campbell’s impressive physical tools and athletic abilities make him one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His combination of size, strength, and agility have scouts taking notice as he continues to solidify his position as a potential first-round selection.
Measured Wingspan and Arm Length
Campbell stands at an imposing 6’6″ and weighs 320 pounds, giving him the ideal frame for an NFL offensive tackle. His arm length became a talking point during the pre-draft process, measuring 32 5/8 inches at the NFL Combine. However, at LSU’s pro day, Campbell’s arms measured longer at 33 inches, a significant improvement that quieted concerns about his reach.
The discrepancy between measurements highlights how crucial arm length is for offensive tackles. Though Campbell’s wingspan isn’t elite by NFL standards, his technical prowess and footwork compensate effectively.
| Measurement | Combine | Pro Day |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6’6″ | 6’6″ |
| Weight | 320 lbs | 323 lbs |
| Arm Length | 32 5/8″ | 33″ |
Vertical and Broad Jump Performance
Campbell’s explosion metrics showcase his lower-body power and athleticism. While his vertical and broad jump numbers aren’t record-setting, they demonstrate sufficient explosiveness for his position and size.
What stands out more than raw testing numbers is Campbell’s functional athleticism on the field. He possesses quick feet and a strong core that allow him to regain positioning if initially beaten by defenders. This recovery ability is crucial for offensive tackles facing elite edge rushers.
His balanced movement skills and fluidity when changing direction have impressed scouts throughout the evaluation process. Campbell doesn’t just rely on size—he demonstrates the athletic traits necessary to mirror defenders in pass protection and drive forward in the run game.
Pre-NFL Draft Assessment
Will Campbell is one of the premier offensive line prospects heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Teams are deliberating his potential position fit and draft stock following his impressive LSU career.
Scouting Combine Showcase
Campbell’s performance at the NFL Combine generated significant buzz, though not without controversy. His arm length measurement of 32 5/8 inches became an immediate talking point among scouts and analysts. This measurement falls below the preferred threshold for tackles in many NFL scouting departments, despite his successful collegiate career at left tackle.
During on-field workouts, Campbell displayed the athleticism that made him a standout at LSU. His movement skills in pass protection drills impressed onlookers, showcasing the footwork that helped him excel in LSU’s pass-heavy offense.
His strength testing and agility numbers aligned with first-round expectations, reinforcing his status as a top offensive line prospect despite the arm length concerns that could affect his positional projection.
Projection as Offensive Tackle or Guard
The debate over Campbell’s optimal NFL position has intensified leading up to the draft. After starting 31 career games at left tackle for LSU, some NFL evaluators believe his future may be at guard due to his physical measurements.
Campbell’s experience in LSU’s scheme, which features a 60-40 pass-run split, has prepared him well for pass protection at the next level. His technical proficiency and awareness stand out regardless of position.
“Campbell has regularly been placed on an island in dropback situations,” noted one evaluator, highlighting experiences that should translate well to NFL pass protection.
Many teams view his potential position switch as an opportunity rather than a limitation. His combination of strength, technique, and two years as team captain suggest he could excel at either position.
Las Vegas Betting on Draft Position
Draft analysts and Vegas oddsmakers have placed Campbell firmly in first-round territory, with most projections having him selected in the mid-to-late first round. Current betting lines reflect his status as a top offensive lineman in a class considered light on elite OL talent.
| Draft Projection Sources | Projected Round | Average Position | Position Projection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consensus Big Boards | 1st | 18-25 | OT/OG |
| Vegas Over/Under | 1st | 22.5 | OT/OG |
| Matt Miller (BR) | 1st | Top OL Available | OG |
The betting markets have remained relatively stable on Campbell’s projection, indicating confidence in his first-round status despite positional questions. Several NFL teams with needs at both tackle and guard in the 15-25 range have been linked to Campbell.
His status as a two-time team captain has also positively influenced his draft stock, with character and leadership traits factoring prominently into first-round consideration.
Will Campbell’s Draft Day and Beyond
The highly-rated LSU offensive tackle stands at the threshold of NFL stardom, with teams scrutinizing his potential despite recent arm length controversies. His collegiate dominance and technical prowess have positioned him as one of the premier offensive line prospects in the upcoming draft.
2025 NFL Draft Expectations
Will Campbell has solidified himself as a first-round talent in the 2025 NFL Draft. The All-American left tackle from LSU is projected to be selected within the top 15 picks, with some mock drafts placing him as high as the top 10.
The arm length discussion that dominated headlines earlier this year seems to have quieted after his Pro Day measurements came in at 33 inches, longer than the 32⅝ inches recorded at the NFL Combine. Campbell didn’t shy away from addressing critics, essentially calling out what he deemed “BS” regarding concerns about his arm length.
His impressive athletic testing backs up the film, displaying the rare movement skills that make him a coveted prospect:
| Metric | Result | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.98s | 94% |
| Vertical Jump | 32″ | N/A |
| 10-Yard Split | 1.76s | 66% |
| Hand Size | 9½” | 24% |
Analyzing Potential NFL Fits
Teams with pressing offensive line needs sitting in the top half of the first round will be eyeing Campbell closely. The Carolina Panthers (picking 8th) and New York Jets (picking 11th) emerge as particularly strong fits given their struggles in pass protection last season.
Campbell’s experience against SEC edge rushers makes him arguably the most pro-ready tackle in this class. His consensus All-America status in 2024 validated the tremendous growth in his pass-blocking technique, which now matches his already dominant run-blocking ability.
What separates Campbell from other tackles in this class is his versatility. While he’s primarily played left tackle at LSU, his athletic profile and technical foundation suggest he could excel at either tackle position in the NFL, increasing his value to teams with flexible offensive line configurations.
Teams must weigh his slightly shorter-than-ideal arm length against his exceptional game tape, which shows no evidence that this physical trait limited his effectiveness against elite competition.
Off the Field
Will Campbell isn’t just making headlines for his on-field performance at LSU. His community presence and personal story have endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Public Persona and Nickname ‘Cookie’
Few offensive linemen earn catchy nicknames that stick, but Campbell’s “Cookie” moniker has become part of his identity. The nickname originated in his childhood when his grandmother noticed his fondness for cookies. It followed him to LSU, where teammates and coaches embraced it.
“Cookie” carries himself with a quiet confidence that belies his massive frame. In interviews, he displays remarkable poise and articulation uncommon for young linemen. His teammates often cite his leadership in the locker room as a stabilizing force for the offensive line.
Campbell has been described as “old school” by LSU coaches, referring to his no-nonsense approach to preparation and his respect for the game’s fundamentals. His Instagram presence remains focused on football and family, eschewing the flashier side of college athlete fame.
Despite the scrutiny over his arm length, Campbell has handled media attention with remarkable maturity, focusing on his performance rather than measurements.
Charitable Activities and Community Service
Campbell has distinguished himself through consistent community engagement throughout his time at LSU. His volunteer efforts focus particularly on youth development programs in Baton Rouge.
He’s made regular appearances at local schools, participating in reading programs aimed at promoting literacy. During holidays, Campbell has organized teammates to visit children’s hospitals, bringing smiles to young patients facing difficult circumstances.
His commitment to service extends to food drives, where he’s leveraged his “Cookie” nickname to partner with local bakeries for charity events. These initiatives have raised funds for food insecurity programs in Louisiana.
Campbell founded a small mentorship program connecting LSU athletes with at-risk youth, providing guidance and positive role models. His dedication to this work has earned him consideration for the Wuerffel Trophy, college football’s premier award for community service.
What separates Campbell’s charitable work is his preference for consistent, behind-the-scenes involvement rather than one-time photo opportunities—a reflection of the same steady approach he brings to the football field.
Analysis of Challenges and Opportunities
Will Campbell’s journey to NFL stardom faces specific hurdles that will test his technical skills and adaptability. His performance against top-tier competition and ability to maintain proper positioning will determine his draft stock and long-term professional success.
Matchups with Elite Pass Rushers
Campbell has shown flashes of brilliance against SEC competition, but his technique occasionally falters when facing elite edge rushers. Against speed rushers who can bend the edge, Campbell sometimes struggles to maintain his anchor and prevent pressures.
His hand placement becomes inconsistent when defenders employ counter moves, forcing him into recovery mode rather than maintaining control of the rep. This issue appeared notably against Alabama and Georgia’s NFL-caliber defensive linemen.
The good news? Campbell has demonstrated remarkable growth in this area. His pass protection sets have become more balanced over time, and his football IQ allows him to recognize stunts and blitzes effectively.
Transitioning to a Left Tackle in the NFL
Campbell’s biggest opportunity is his projection as an NFL left tackle. However, this also presents challenges. His inside zone and gap scheme blocking translates well to the pro level. Some scouts question if his lateral agility meets the NFL standard for blindside protectors.
Campbell has played over 2,500 snaps at left tackle for LSU, providing valuable experience. However, the jump in competition level means he’ll face defensive linemen with more refined technique and greater athleticism weekly.
His nimble ability to uncover and challenge second-level defenders suggests he has the movement skills necessary for success. This trait particularly stands out when LSU deploys screen passes or outside zone runs.
Some NFL teams have reportedly debated whether Campbell might be better suited at guard given his power in the run game. This positional flexibility could actually enhance his draft stock rather than diminish it.
