**Patriots Lose Star Tackle Will Campbell to Injury Ahead of Playoffs**
The New England Patriots are facing a significant setback as they approach the final stretch of the season. Head coach Mike Vrabel announced on Wednesday that star left tackle Will Campbell, the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has been placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury. The 21-year-old was carted off the field during the third quarter of the Patriots’ 26-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Campbell is expected to be eligible to return for the team’s Week 18 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. In his absence, Vederian Lowe is anticipated to take over the starting role.
Currently, the Patriots hold a 10-2 record, riding a nine-game winning streak and leading the AFC East. They are set to face the Buffalo Bills, who are second in the division with a 7-4 record, in Week 15—a game that Campbell will miss. The Patriots’ resurgence this season, following a disappointing 4-13 record last year, can be attributed in large part to their revamped offensive line.
In 2024, the starting offensive line featured Chukwuma Okorafor at left tackle, Michael Jordan at left guard, David Andrews at center, Layden Robinson at right guard, and Michael Onwenu at right tackle. The team made strategic additions to the offensive line during the offseason through both the NFL Draft and free agency. By 2025, the starting lineup included Campbell at left tackle, Jared Wilson at left guard, Garrett Bradbury at center, Onwenu at right guard, and Morgan Moses at right tackle. This newly constructed offensive line has played a crucial role in the development of second-year quarterback Drake Maye, who is now in the MVP conversation.
Maye, 23, leads the NFL with a completion percentage of 71% and has thrown for 3,130 yards, along with 21 touchdowns and six interceptions in 12 games. His impressive performance can be largely attributed to the improved protection from the offensive line. However, the Patriots may also be without Wilson, who left the game against the Bengals with an injury. His status for the upcoming game against the New York Giants (2-10) remains uncertain.
As the Patriots navigate these challenges, their ability to adapt will be crucial in maintaining their position as contenders in the AFC East.
**FAQ**
*What is the status of Will Campbell’s injury?*
Will Campbell has been placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury and is expected to be eligible to return for the Week 18 game against the Miami Dolphins.