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The New England Patriots suffered a significant blow on Sunday when first-round pick Will Campbell sustained a knee injury during their victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Campbell was carted off the field and did not return to the game, forcing the Patriots to adjust their offensive line depth.
The injury raised immediate concerns about the team’s protection scheme moving forward. Early evaluations from Monday provided some measure of relief. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the injury may not sideline Campbell for an extended period, though the Patriots are preparing for his absence in the short term.
“Patriots LT Will Campbell is believed to have suffered an MCL sprain and will have an MRI on his knee, sources said. He’s a candidate for Injured Reserve, with the hope he returns when it counts the most,” Rapoport posted on X.
Just discussed on @GMFB: #Patriots LT Will Campbell is believed to have suffered an MCL sprain and will have an MRI on his knee, sources said. He’s a candidate for Injured Reserve, with the hope he returns when it counts the most. pic.twitter.com/2E6kg12izj
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 24, 2025
The Patriots’ offensive line, which had been relatively stable throughout the season, faced a cascade of setbacks in a single afternoon. Left Guard Jared Wilson was also carted off with an ankle injury, leaving the entire left side depleted.
Campbell and Wilson had formed the first rookie pairing at those positions since 2000, and both were sidelined simultaneously. Veteran replacements Vederian Lowe and Ben Brown will now be tasked with protecting quarterback Drake Maye.
Maye has been performing at an MVP-caliber level this season, making the offensive line situation even more critical to the team’s success. The injuries compounded beyond the tackle and guard positions.
Brenden Schooler exited with an ankle issue, while Khyiris Tonga left with a chest injury. Tonga was only starting because Milton Williams had recently been placed on injured reserve.
New England faces a challenging schedule ahead. The Patriots host the Giants on Monday Night Football before their bye week, followed by matchups against the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, and Miami Dolphins.
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