The San Francisco 49ers, for the longest time, have relied on Trent Williams on their offensive line. And no doubt, that has worked for the most part. At 36, Williams is a nine-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-Team All-Pro tackle and remains one of the best in the game. Soon after the 2024 season ended, there were whispers of his retirement.
Silencing them all, Williams has opted to return for another year. But while he’ll be back in 2025, it’s hard to ignore that his days on the field might be numbered. And if things go south, the 49ers need a contingency plan.
Can Will Campbell Keep the Trent Williams Standards Going?
Now, there is no doubt that replacing a legend like Trent Williams is not going to be an easy task. He is hands down one of the best left tackles in NFL history. Despite missing seven games last season, he still is the person the 49ers rely on. But if he hangs up his cleats, there’s nobody on the roster who would replace him.
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Now, Will Campbell could be the perfect fit. He is a potential first-round draft pick. Campbell is nearly 6’6” and 319 pounds and has earned All-America honors and Jacobs Blocking Trophy to his name. And his time stands at 4.98 40-yard.
In San Francisco’s zone-heavy blocking scheme, where mobility and agility are just as important as brute strength, Campbell could be an ideal fit.
However, there is one issue that the San Francisco 49ers can’t turn a blind eye to. Campbell’s arm length. At 32 5/8 inches, his reach falls short of the preferred 34-inch benchmark for NFL tackles. Critics argue this could make it harder for him to fend off elite pass rushers. However, Campbell is not buying that.
After the combine week, he told ESPN, “You can go look at my tape; there’s not one play on there where I get beat because I have shorter arms.” And no doubt, his confidence is backed up by results. LSU allowed the fewest sacks in the SEC last season, and Campbell regularly squared off against pass rushers bound for the NFL.
The 49ers run a similar offensive scheme to the Rams. So, arm length might not be their biggest concern. Los Angeles’ left tackle, Alaric Jackson, has even shorter arms and secured a $57 million contract. If Campbell’s technique, footwork, and agility are strong enough, his arm length may be a non-factor in Kyle Shanahan’s system.
KEEP READING: Will Campbell Mock Draft
And there is no denying that the 49ers’ need for a new tackle is urgent. Jaylon Moore has signed with the Chiefs, and the current right tackle, Colton McKivitz, has been rather inconsistent.
If Campbell falls to them at No. 11 in the draft, the 49ers might move quickly. Now the big question that remains is, can Campbell become the next Trent Williams?
That remains to be seen. But Campbell could be the perfect successor to one of the greatest tackles of all time.
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