Drake Maye’s New Protector: Why the Patriots QB is ‘Pumped’ About Rookie OT Will Campbell

The New England Patriots are betting big on their future, and that future hinges on the development of quarterback Drake Maye. After a challenging 4-13 season in 2024, where Maye showed flashes of potential amidst a leaky offensive line, the Patriots have made it a priority to revamp their protection. The splashiest move? Drafting LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell with the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. And Maye couldn’t be happier.

“I listened to it live,” Maye said, referring to Campbell’s now-viral draft night declaration that he’s “gonna fight and die to protect” him. “It gets you going, gets your juices going. I think it makes you want to go out there and play football now. Pumped that we picked Will.”

The Patriots’ O-Line Woes and the Campbell Solution

Last season, the Patriots’ offensive line struggled mightily, ranking near the bottom of the league in both pass-blocking (31st) and run-blocking (32nd) win rate. They allowed pressure on a staggering 40.7% of dropbacks, the highest rate in the NFL. This constant pressure hindered Maye’s ability to showcase his talents and made it difficult to establish any rhythm on offense.

Enter Will Campbell, a 6-foot-6, 320-pound behemoth who is expected to step in immediately at left tackle, protecting Maye’s blindside. Campbell’s arrival is not just about filling a position of need; it’s about changing the entire culture of the Patriots’ offensive line.

“He changed the culture the day he walked in the room,” said LSU offensive line coach Brad Davis. “It was his commitment and devotion to his craft, but also pouring into his teammates as well.”

What Campbell Brings to the Table

Campbell isn’t just big; he’s athletic, technically sound, and possesses a rare blend of power and mobility. Scouting reports praise his ability to:

Dominate in the run game: Campbell is a “thumping run blocker” who can clear out B-gaps and displace defenders with his “strike and run” technique. He excels at creating movement at the point of attack and is effective in both zone and power schemes.
Excel in pass protection: Campbell has quick feet and a strong punch, allowing him to keep up with speed rushers and absorb bull rushes. He allowed just two sacks over the past two seasons at LSU, showcasing his reliability in protecting the quarterback.
Play with a nasty finishing mentality: Campbell is a violent finisher who consistently looks to dominate his opponent. He plays with a rugged and aggressive mentality, setting the tone for the entire offensive line.

According to WalterFootball.com, “Campbell is a well-developed player who has been coached well over the past two seasons. He could start quickly in the NFL and be a steady blocker over a long career.”

Maye’s Improved Arsenal: Diggs, Henderson, and More

Campbell isn’t the only addition that has Maye excited. The Patriots have also made significant upgrades to their receiving corps and backfield.

The biggest name is Stefon Diggs, a four-time Pro Bowl receiver who signed with the Patriots as a free agent. “He was one of those guys growing up — when I was in high school, he was young in the league,” Maye said of Diggs. “I had him on my fantasy team and things like that, playing with him in Madden. It’s going to be cool to throw to a receiver who’s made plays like he has.”

The Patriots also drafted Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson in the second round, adding a dynamic playmaker to complement Rhamondre Stevenson. These additions, combined with the expected improvement of second-year players like wide receiver Kyle Williams, give Maye a much-improved arsenal to work with.

The New-Look Offensive Line: A Foundation for the Future

With Campbell anchoring the left side, the Patriots’ offensive line is starting to take shape. Veteran additions like center Garrett Bradbury and right tackle Morgan Moses provide stability and leadership, while returning players like right guard Mike Onwenu offer Pro Bowl-caliber talent.

Here’s a potential look at the Patriots’ starting offensive line in 2025:

LT: Will Campbell
LG: Cole Strange/Sidy Sow/Layden Robinson
C: Garrett Bradbury
RG: Mike Onwenu
RT: Morgan Moses

While the left guard position remains a question mark, the overall outlook for the Patriots’ offensive line is significantly brighter than it was a year ago.

Vrabel’s Influence and a New Identity

The arrival of new head coach Mike Vrabel has also instilled a sense of optimism in Foxborough. “It’s been great with coach; he’s come in here and it seems like he’s been here a while,” Maye said of Vrabel. “He’s so comfortable being a head coach. He’s done it before; he’s done it at a high level and won a lot of games. So, looking forward to getting things going. You can see he’s trying to kind of install the new identity.”

Vrabel’s emphasis on toughness, discipline, and attention to detail is expected to have a positive impact on the entire team, particularly the offensive line.

The Road Ahead

Drake Maye’s rookie season was a learning experience, filled with both challenges and moments of promise. With a revamped offensive line, an upgraded supporting cast, and a new head coach, Maye is poised to take a significant step forward in 2025.

Will Campbell’s arrival is a key piece of that puzzle. His talent, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to protecting his quarterback have already made a strong impression on Maye and the entire Patriots organization. As Maye himself said, “Pumped to get things going, and obviously, [Campbell] seems like a football player. That’s what you want around here.”