The New England Patriots have placed star left tackle Will Campbell on injured reserve following a knee injury sustained during their recent win over the Cincinnati Bengals. This development has raised questions about the team’s offensive line stability and the future of quarterback Drake Maye’s MVP aspirations. The injury comes at a critical time in the season, as the team aims to solidify their position in the AFC East.
Head coach Mike Vrabel announced the move on Wednesday, confirming Campbell, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, will be out for the remainder of the season. Backup Vederian Lowe is expected to step in starting with the team’s Week 18 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Campbell’s injury may affect the Patriots’ plans for the Week 15 game against the Buffalo Bills, which they will miss due to his absence.
The Patriots’ offensive line over the past season has been a significant factor in the team’s turnaround from a 4-13 record last year to their current 10-2 mark. This revamped line, which includes Campbell, has been instrumental in quarterback Drake Maye’s development. Maye, now 23, leads the league in completion percentage (71%) and has accumulated 21 touchdowns while throwing six interceptions in 12 games. However, the recent injuries to key pieces of the offensive line, including left guard Jared Wilson, could threaten their offensive cohesion.
The situation is further complicated by the potential impact of these injuries on the team’s upcoming schedule, including a high-stakes matchup against the New York Giants, where Maye could be without Wilson. The Patriots’ success this season has been heavily reliant on the effectiveness of their offensive line, and these setbacks now pose a challenge to their continued dominance in the AFC East.