The Patriots’ momentum hangs in the balance as Will Campbell’s knee injury sends the team hunting for answers ahead of a crucial MRI that could reshape their protection of Drake Maye. DH

The New England Patriots entered the 2025 season with renewed optimism, strengthened by the arrival of two cornerstone rookies: quarterback Drake Maye and left tackle Will Campbell. Together, they symbolized the future of a franchise eager to reclaim its position among the NFL’s elite. But that future has suddenly grown uncertain.

During Sunday’s victory, Campbell — the No. 4 overall draft pick and the protector of Maye’s blind side — suffered a concerning knee injury that forced him to be carted off the field. He is now scheduled for an MRI on Monday, and the Patriots are on high alert. The results could reshape not only the depth chart, but also the direction of a team currently leading the AFC.

A Promising Rookie Campaign Cut Short

Before the injury, Will Campbell had been everything the Patriots hoped for and more. Drafted out of LSU with expectations of becoming a long-term franchise left tackle, he quickly showed polish well beyond his years. His combination of strength, balance, and technical discipline translated seamlessly into the NFL.

Campbell’s presence stabilized the offensive line, turning what had been a major weakness in recent years into a surprising strength. Through the first half of the season:

• He consistently graded as one of the better rookie linemen in the league.
• Drake Maye’s blind side pressure rate dropped significantly compared to the previous season.
• The Patriots’ offense flourished behind stronger pass protection, ranking near the top of the AFC in total yards and scoring.

That immediate impact is precisely why his injury feels so devastating. Campbell wasn’t just another rookie; he was a foundational piece of the Patriots’ future and one of the keys to their current success.

The Injury: What Happened on the Field

Campbell went down late in the third quarter after a defender rolled onto his leg during a blocking sequence. The rookie immediately grabbed his knee, prompting the medical staff to rush to his side. Moments later, he was carted off the field, unable to bear weight.

Initial evaluations suggested a potential MCL sprain — concerning, but not automatically catastrophic. However, the true severity remains unknown until Monday’s MRI. Depending on that result, the timeline for his return could range from a couple of weeks to the remainder of the season.

Possible Outcomes and Their Implications

Because the MRI results will determine the road ahead, several scenarios are in play:

1. Short-Term Absence (1–3 Weeks)

If the MRI shows only a mild sprain, the Patriots could avoid placing Campbell on injured reserve. This would be a sigh of relief and give the offense a chance to maintain its rhythm with minimal disruption. The team would still need to temporarily reshuffle the line, but the long-term consequences would be manageable.

2. Multi-Week Injury (IR Placement)

Should Campbell’s injury require a stint on injured reserve, he would miss at least four games. This would force the Patriots to rely on backups and heavily adjust their protection schemes. With a pivotal stretch of the schedule approaching, even a short IR stay could alter playoff seeding or momentum.

3. Season-Ending Diagnosis

This is the nightmare scenario. Losing Campbell for the season would leave New England without its most important offensive lineman. It would also raise concerns about continuity and chemistry in the trenches — precisely when the postseason demands stability.

For a rookie quarterback still developing timing, trust, and pocket awareness, losing blind-side confidence can be a significant setback.

Impact on Drake Maye and the AFC-Leading Offense

The Patriots drafted Will Campbell for one reason above all else: to protect their franchise quarterback. Drake Maye has shown flashes of brilliance this season, thriving behind improved blocking and demonstrating the poise and explosiveness that made him a top draft pick.

Without Campbell, several challenges arise:

Blind-Side Vulnerability

Defensive coordinators will immediately test whoever replaces Campbell. Expect more edge pressure, stunts, and blitzes directed at the left side of the line. Maye may face more hurried throws, hits, and disruptive pressure — all of which could slow his progress.

Changes in Offensive Philosophy

The coaching staff will likely need to:

• Use more quick-release passing concepts
• Increase pre-snap motion to keep defenses honest
• Lean on tight ends and running backs for additional blocking help
• Reduce the number of deep-drop, long-developing plays

These adjustments can keep the offense functional, but they also limit the full breadth of its playbook.

Run Game Consistency

Campbell was also a critical factor in the run game. His leverage, mobility, and discipline helped create lanes that powered New England’s balanced attack. Without him, outside-zone runs and edge-set plays may become less effective.

The Patriots’ Options Moving Forward

Belichick’s successor coaching staff — known for adapting under adversity — will have to act quickly. Here’s what New England can do while waiting for Campbell’s MRI results:

Elevate the Next Man Up

Backup tackles such as Vederian Lowe or others on the roster will need to take on increased responsibilities. The team may also explore shifting linemen between positions to create the most cohesive front five possible.

Scan the Free-Agent Market

Midseason offensive line help is difficult to find, but not impossible. Veterans, practice-squad candidates, or recently released players could provide depth — even if they’re not long-term solutions.

Scheme Adjustments

Expect increased emphasis on:

• Maximum protection sets
• Chip-blocks from tight ends
• Play-action designed to move the pocket
• Quick passing routes emphasizing timing

The Patriots have the coaching intelligence to adapt — the question is how effectively they can do it without a foundational piece.

Team Morale and the Larger AFC Picture

At 8–3 and leading the AFC (as of this week’s standings), the Patriots are in a position few predicted before the season began. But remaining at the top requires resilience.

Losing Campbell tests not only the roster depth but the psychological strength of the team. Injuries can derail contenders, or they can galvanize them. Leaders like Drake Maye and the veteran linemen will need to step forward to maintain confidence and focus.

Conclusion

The knee injury to Will Campbell represents a significant challenge for the New England Patriots — one that could shape the trajectory of their season and the development of their franchise quarterback. While the seriousness of the injury remains unknown until Monday’s MRI, the implications are clear: Campbell’s presence is vital to protecting Drake Maye and sustaining one of the AFC’s best offenses.

If the rookie left tackle returns soon, the Patriots can breathe a sigh of relief and push toward the postseason with their foundation intact. But if the injury sidelines him for an extended period, New England will need to adapt quickly, lean on depth, and reinvent aspects of its offense to stay competitive.

For now, the Patriots and their fans wait, hoping that the cornerstone of their offensive line will avoid the worst and return to guide this promising season forward.