In the bustling city of Indianapolis, NFL scouts gather to evaluate the potential stars of tomorrow. Among these aspiring professionals is Will Campbell, a standout tackle from LSU, who confidently addresses any doubts about his measurements with one simple suggestion—watch the tape.
Campbell makes a compelling argument for himself as a top contender for the first offensive lineman to be picked in the upcoming April draft. His performance over nearly three remarkably consistent seasons in the Southeastern Conference showcases his ability to keep opposing draft hopefuls at bay. Through his practices at LSU and his games, his skill speaks volumes.
Despite his imposing figure at 6-foot-6 and weighing 319 pounds, it isn’t his size but his arm length of 32 5/8 inches that has captured attention at the NFL’s annual scouting combine. Teams usually prefer tackles with at least 33-inch arms, but Campbell isn’t fazed. “There’s not one play out there where, when I get beat, you can say ‘Oh, that’s because I have shorter arms,’” he states, emphasizing how he uses his attributes strategically against various defenders.
In this highly competitive arena, a mere three-eighths of an inch can influence a team’s decision, weighing whether Campbell might be ideally suited for the role of a guard instead. As per NFL.com gradings, Campbell stands in the limelight, tied for second place in the offensive line category with Texas’s Kelvin Banks Jr., while Armand Membou from Missouri holds the number one spot.
Campbell’s mission in Indianapolis is clear—he intends to prove that he’s second to none. Unlike many top-tier prospects who reserve their skills for college pro days, Campbell showcases his talents by participating in the drills. He clocked a notable 4.98 seconds in the 40-yard dash, with Membou slightly ahead at 4.91 seconds.
Furthermore, in the vertical jump, Membou tied for fourth with a leap of 34 inches, while Campbell was among five players tied for seventh at 32 inches. Both athletes excelled in the broad jump, with Membou reaching 9 feet, 7 inches, while Campbell and Georgia’s Tate Ratledge achieved 9 feet, 5 inches.
“I want to demonstrate my athleticism, versatility, be it right, left, or any role needed—I’m ready to jump in and compete,” Campbell said ahead of his drills, a sentiment that resonates well with the scouts.
Campbell’s transparency reflects his confidence. Having faced some of the toughest competitors since his college debut, he has conquered many formidable adversaries. Joining forces with Emery Jones Jr., another of the 329 combine participants, Campbell commandeered a historic position at LSU as part of their first freshman tackle tandem.
Campbell’s impressive resume includes allowing merely five sacks over 38 career starts, with just two in the previous season. His work ethics, honed over summers on a Southern farm, highlight his dedication. “Do you know what poly pipe is?” he playfully quips, narrating one of his farm chores, “If you drive by a cornfield or bean field, seeing those white pipes, I’ve rolled out miles and miles of it.”
Kelvin Banks Jr., a prospect born in Humble, Texas, took a similar journey to vie for the top spot in this position group. A three-year starter himself, he paved the way for legendary Longhorns runners, earning numerous accolades, including the Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award, aside from being a unanimous All-American. His smaller stature at 6-5, 315 pounds isn’t a deterrent, thanks to his 33 1/2-inch arms and 10 3/8-inch hands, which could provide him an edge.
However, Banks believes his prowess extends beyond measurements, citing his excellent footwork and aggressive mentality as his forte, especially in run blocking. “My approach is to dominate my defender,” he explains. “Although it sometimes lands me in trouble, I strive to command the scrimmage line.”
Displaying his abilities on Sunday, Banks ran a 5.16-second 40-yard dash, ranking 17th, while his 32-inch vertical matched Campbell’s. His broad jump measured 8 feet, 8 inches, outpacing only a few in the group. Foregoing the bench press, he hopes his displayed capabilities suffice.
As the competition progresses, Campbell stands firm, trusting his extensive experience in the top tier of college football sets him apart. “My resume speaks for itself,” he declares confidently, ready to convince scouts of his suitability for any challenge thrown his way.
