Patriots Rookie Will Campbell Shuts Up Critics with Newest PFF Stat
When the New England Patriots selected offensive tackle Will Campbell in the 2025 NFL Draft, the pick drew its fair share of skepticism. Many analysts questioned whether Campbell, though physically imposing and raw with potential, was ready to handle NFL-level competition right away. Fast forward to Week 2 of the preseason, and Campbell is already beginning to silence those doubts—thanks to a key Pro Football Focus (PFF) metric that puts him in elite company.
According to PFF, Campbell has yet to allow a single quarterback pressure across his first 52 pass-blocking snaps this preseason. That stat not only highlights his poise under fire but also underscores how quickly he’s adjusted to the speed and complexity of professional defenses. For a rookie lineman, especially one tasked with protecting the quarterback’s blindside, such efficiency is no small feat.
Head coach Jerod Mayo praised Campbell’s work ethic earlier this week, emphasizing that the rookie’s attention to detail has been evident since rookie minicamp. “He came in with a chip on his shoulder,” Mayo said. “He listens, he learns, and he’s putting it into practice. That’s what you want to see from a young player.”
Teammates have also taken notice. Veteran guard Cole Strange noted how Campbell’s strength and footwork have been a stabilizing force on the line. “You can’t teach size, but you can definitely see he’s been working on technique,” Strange said. “He’s ahead of where most rookies usually are.”
While it’s still early, Campbell’s PFF grade serves as a strong counterpoint to his pre-draft critics. If he continues on this trajectory, the Patriots may have found not only a day-one starter but also a long-term cornerstone for their offensive line—a vital piece as the team ushers in a new era.
