New England Patriots left tackle Will Campbell reinjured the same right knee that ailed him last season on Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders.
On Wednesday, Campbell opened up to the media about his injury.
“I could definitely tell a difference from this year to last year. Yeah, it’ll be all right,” said Campbell.
“It always could be worse. Like I said, just going to take it day by day. Not going to put any expectations on anything and just trust my body, see how I’m feeling, ramping up and things like that, and just see what happens.”
Campbell’s Confidence in Caleb Lomu
Losing a left tackle is a devastating injury for any NFL team, especially for a player like Will Campbell, who was playing well to start his sophomore season. Through four-plus games, the former LSU Tiger had a PFF grade of 72.0, which ranks 18th among tackles.
But if there is a team that is well equipped to handle their left tackle’s absence, it’s the New England Patriots, who invested a first-round pick in tackle Caleb Lomu this season.
Campbell has the utmost confidence that Lomu will be able to fill in to protect quarterback Drake Maye‘s blindside.
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“Super proud of the way he came out there and played, and I think he’s going to do that whenever he gets his opportunity,” said Campbell.
Following Campbell’s injury, Lomu stepped in and, in 29 pass-blocking snaps, only allowed one pressure.
Season Outlook
Thanks to the addition of Caleb Lomu, New England’s offensive line is well equipped to not skip a beat should Will Campbell miss time.
On Sunday, whether it’s Campbell or Lomu starting at left tackle, New England’s starting left tackle will be tested by the Jets‘ DROY candidate, pass rusher David Bailey, who is fresh off winning the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his dominant three-sack performance against the Browns.
