The New Orleans Saints met with Will Campbell, the top draft pick from LSU.
The New Orleans Saints Meet with Will Campbell, the Top Draft Pick from LSU
The NFL Draft is always a time of excitement and anticipation for both college prospects and NFL teams. The 2025 draft class, filled with talented athletes from across the nation, has brought with it numerous potential stars, and among them is Will Campbell, a standout offensive tackle from LSU. Widely regarded as one of the best prospects in this year’s class, Campbell has drawn attention from teams looking to bolster their offensive line, and one team in particular, the New Orleans Saints, has taken a keen interest in his talents. As the Saints met with Will Campbell, the discussions have left fans and analysts speculating on the future direction of both the Saints and Campbell’s promising career in the NFL.
The Rise of Will Campbell: LSU’s Pillar on the Offensive Line
Will Campbell’s journey to the 2025 NFL Draft has been nothing short of impressive. Born and raised in the heart of Louisiana, Campbell’s high school career was a harbinger of his future success. Known for his imposing frame, quick feet, and ability to dominate defensive linemen, Campbell was a five-star recruit and the top-rated offensive tackle in the nation by multiple recruiting services.
When he arrived at LSU, Campbell immediately made an impact, starting in his freshman year and anchoring an offensive line that was often considered the backbone of the Tigers’ offense. His size (6’6″, 320 pounds) and strength allowed him to control the line of scrimmage, while his agility and technique helped him excel both in run blocking and pass protection. Over his three years at LSU, Campbell’s development under head coach Brian Kelly was evident, as he quickly became one of the most coveted offensive linemen in college football.
His combination of size, strength, and quickness has made him one of the most highly rated prospects in the 2025 draft class. NFL scouts have been particularly impressed with his ability to adapt and improve year after year, showcasing his football IQ and leadership on the field. Whether it was holding off elite edge rushers in the SEC or clearing paths for running backs, Campbell has proved that he has the tools to make an immediate impact at the next level.
The New Orleans Saints: A Team in Need of Offensive Line Help
For the New Orleans Saints, the decision to meet with Will Campbell and explore the possibility of drafting him is both logical and strategic. The Saints have spent the last few seasons attempting to rebuild their offensive line, which has faced significant challenges with aging players and injuries. While the team has several talented players on the roster, there is no question that the offensive line has been a weak point for the Saints in recent seasons.
The Saints’ quarterback situation has also been in flux, with veteran quarterback Derek Carr now leading the charge after signing with the team. Carr’s ability to succeed in New Orleans hinges heavily on the protection he receives from the offensive line. For Carr to thrive, the Saints need to shore up their protection up front, allowing him more time in the pocket and more opportunities to make plays down the field.
In addition, Alvin Kamara, one of the league’s premier running backs, will need ample space to operate in the backfield. The Saints have long been known for their potent running game, and if they want to remain competitive in the NFC South, establishing a strong and consistent run-blocking offensive line is crucial. Will Campbell, with his elite combination of size and skill, is seen as a potential game-changer in this area.
The Saints also have a reputation for valuing versatility and toughness on their offensive line. Campbell fits that mold perfectly. His versatility allows him to play either tackle position, which gives the Saints a great deal of flexibility in their blocking schemes. As head coach Dennis Allen and general manager Mickey Loomis work to solidify the roster, Campbell is seen as a key piece in their efforts to build a dominant offensive line.
The Saints’ Meeting with Will Campbell: What Was Discussed?
The meeting between Will Campbell and the New Orleans Saints is more than just a routine draft visit; it signals a strong interest in the LSU standout, who could be a cornerstone of the Saints’ offensive line for years to come. According to sources close to the team, the Saints’ front office and coaching staff were thoroughly impressed with Campbell’s physical traits, but they were equally intrigued by his football IQ and personality.
During the meeting, the Saints focused on getting to know Campbell not only as a player but as a person. Understanding his mindset, work ethic, and fit within the team’s culture was an important part of the evaluation process. Given the Saints’ emphasis on building a cohesive and disciplined roster, this personal connection is just as important as Campbell’s on-field skills.
Dennis Allen and his coaching staff were reportedly impressed with Campbell’s leadership qualities. As a key figure on LSU’s offensive line, Campbell played a significant role in helping to mentor younger players and maintain cohesion within a high-pressure college football program. The Saints are known for valuing players who can make an immediate impact in the locker room and contribute to a winning culture, and Campbell’s leadership skills were a major talking point during the meeting.
Another key topic of discussion revolved around Campbell’s adaptability. While he primarily played left tackle at LSU, the Saints wanted to see if he could fit into multiple positions along the offensive line. With the NFL’s emphasis on flexibility and depth, the Saints were curious to see how Campbell might adjust to right tackle or even guard if needed. Campbell’s ability to excel at different spots, whether at tackle or inside, was a crucial factor in his evaluation.
What Will Campbell Brings to the New Orleans Saints
Should the Saints decide to select Will Campbell with their first-round pick, they would be getting a player who is more than capable of stepping in and contributing immediately. Here are several key aspects of Campbell’s game that make him such an appealing prospect for New Orleans:
- Elite Physical Traits: Campbell’s size and strength are his most obvious attributes. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 320 pounds, he has the ideal build for an NFL offensive lineman. His long arms, quick feet, and impressive lateral movement make him a formidable force in both the run game and pass protection.
- Pass Protection: One of Campbell’s standout qualities is his ability to keep quarterbacks clean. He has quick feet and excellent hand placement, which allow him to keep pass rushers at bay. This skill would be invaluable for Derek Carr, who needs consistent protection to thrive in the Saints’ offense.
- Run Blocking: LSU’s offensive line was known for creating running lanes, and Campbell played a significant role in that success. His ability to move defenders off the ball and clear paths for the running back is one of the key skills that NFL scouts have praised. Given the Saints’ reliance on their run game, Campbell would provide a strong foundation for Alvin Kamara and any other backs the Saints use.
- Football IQ and Technique: Campbell is not just a physical specimen—he’s also a highly intelligent player with excellent technique. His understanding of defensive line schemes and his ability to adjust on the fly are qualities that would allow him to make an immediate impact at the professional level.
- Durability: One of the most important factors for any NFL lineman is durability, and Campbell has proven to be a reliable and durable player throughout his career at LSU. His consistency in staying healthy and being available every week would be a huge asset to the Saints, who have struggled with injuries along their offensive line in recent years.
The Big Question: Will the Saints Draft Will Campbell?
While Will Campbell’s meeting with the New Orleans Saints has certainly generated buzz, the ultimate question remains: will the Saints pull the trigger on selecting him in the 2025 NFL Draft?
In many mock drafts, Campbell is projected to be a top-10 pick, and some analysts believe the Saints will be in prime position to grab him if they decide to address their offensive line in the first round. However, the NFL Draft is always full of surprises, and the Saints could face competition from other teams looking to improve their offensive line.
Another factor in the decision will be how the Saints feel about other positions of need. While the offensive line is undoubtedly a priority, the team may also look to bolster other areas such as the defensive line, linebacker, or wide receiver. Given the unpredictability of the draft, it’s impossible to say for certain where Campbell will land, but the Saints are certainly one of the teams that will be watching him closely in the weeks leading up to the draft.
Looking Ahead: Will Campbell’s Impact on the Saints
If Will Campbell does indeed land with the New Orleans Saints, his impact could be felt immediately. He has the talent to step in and become a key contributor in year one, helping to solidify a much-needed area of weakness on the team’s roster. With the Saints’ focus on rebuilding their offensive line to protect Derek Carr and establish a strong running game, Campbell could play a pivotal role in the team’s efforts to contend in the NFC South.
As the draft approaches, the New Orleans Saints will continue to evaluate their options, but one thing is certain: Will Campbell has the potential to be a cornerstone player for the Saints for years to come. Whether they pull the trigger on selecting him or not, the meeting between Campbell and the Saints signals just how highly they value his skill set and his potential to make an immediate impact at the next level.
