The New England Patriots were dealt a major scare in their Week 12 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals when rookie left tackle Will Campbell went down in the third quarter. The No. 4 overall pick has been one of the most important pieces of the Patriots’ turnaround this season.
His injury immediately shifted the tone inside Paycor Stadium and raised serious questions about the stability of New England’s offensive line moving forward.
The play unfolded on a run to the left side, where Campbell appeared to get tangled and collapse awkwardly. Trainers quickly surrounded him, and although he initially attempted to move under his own power, it became clear something was seriously wrong.
A potentially huge injury situation developing for the Patriots:
Star rookie OT Will Campbell was in tears being carted off the field with a leg injury. pic.twitter.com/pHscWfX8jK
— JPA (@jasrifootball) November 23, 2025
He was examined in the medical tent before being ruled as dealing with a knee issue. The team listed him as questionable to return, but moments later, he was carted to the locker room, visibly emotional as he covered his face with a towel.
Will Campbell.
Horrible news. pic.twitter.com/KqGDyycMoN
— Savage (@SavageSports_) November 23, 2025
The reaction alone suggested the possibility of a significant setback, though nothing official has been confirmed. The sequence left the Patriots shaken. Campbell had been tended to by trainers multiple times before being moved off the field, and the team has provided only minimal updates since.
Given his value to the offense and the responsibilities he handles on every snap, losing him for any length of time would be a massive blow. New England has thrived this season behind improved line play and Maye’s growth, and Campbell has been a central part of that success.
With the Patriots pushing for the AFC’s top seed and entering the toughest stretch of the season, any disruption to Maye’s protection could alter how the team performs down the stretch.
Will Campbell Called Drake Maye the “Best”
Earlier this month, Campbell made headlines for reasons far more positive. After the Patriots’ decisive win over the New York Jets, he praised Drake Maye’s performance and expressed how highly he views his quarterback.
Campbell has been vocal about the confidence he has in Maye, noting that the young quarterback has been playing at an exceptionally high level and gives the Patriots a chance in every game.
“He’s playing at an elite level right now,” Campbell said. “I’m biased, but I think he’s the best player in the NFL. There’s no game that we’re out of when we have him.”
Head coach Mike Vrabel has echoed the optimism, noting that Maye’s development matches the expectations the team set for him and that the quarterback remains grounded despite the surge in recognition.
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