BREAKING NEWS: LSU Tigers Tackle Will Campbell has made a significant announcement regarding his future with the program, head coach Brian Kelly reacts shock…

LSU Tigers Tackle Will Campbell has made a significant announcement regarding his future with the program, head coach Brian Kelly reacts shock…

Brian Kelly Makes Big Announcement Ahead of 2024 LSU Football Season - Athlon Sports

LSU Tigers’ standout offensive tackle, Will Campbell, has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, opting to forgo his final year of eligibility. This decision, announced on December 3, 2024, marks a significant milestone in Campbell’s illustrious collegiate career and has elicited reactions from various quarters, including head coach Brian Kelly.

Will Campbell’s Announcement

In a heartfelt message shared via social media, Campbell expressed his gratitude towards the LSU community, coaches, teammates, and fans. He reflected on his three-year journey with the Tigers, stating, “There aren’t enough words to describe the impact LSU, the Baton Rouge community and the state of Louisiana has had on my life.” He further acknowledged the support and traditions of Tiger Nation, highlighting the indescribable experience of “running out of the tunnel in Death Valley.” Concluding his message, Campbell declared his intention to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, expressing appreciation for the unwavering support throughout his tenure at LSU.

Brian Kelly’s Reaction

Head coach Brian Kelly, who has been instrumental in Campbell’s development, reacted to the announcement with a mix of pride and acknowledgment of the challenges ahead. While specific details of Kelly’s response were not extensively covered in the available sources, it is evident that Campbell’s departure represents both a significant achievement for the player and a notable transition for the team’s offensive lineup.

Campbell’s Collegiate Achievements

During his tenure at LSU, Campbell established himself as a formidable presence on the offensive line. Starting all 38 games in which he appeared, he played a total of 2,554 offensive snaps—the most by any player during that span. His consistent performance earned him multiple accolades, including:

Notably, Campbell became the first offensive lineman in LSU history to earn the coveted No. 7 jersey, traditionally reserved for the team’s best playmaker. He wore this number as a patch during his sophomore and junior seasons, symbolizing his leadership and exceptional skill on the field.

NFL Draft Projections and Considerations

Campbell’s decision to enter the NFL Draft comes as no surprise to analysts and scouts. He is widely regarded as one of the top offensive lineman prospects, with projections placing him as a potential top-10 pick. Bleacher Report lists him as the No. 7 overall prospect in their latest 2025 NFL Draft Big Board.

However, discussions about his transition to the professional level include considerations regarding his optimal position. Despite his success at left tackle in college, some scouts suggest that Campbell might transition to an interior line position in the NFL due to his arm length. B/R NFL scout Brandon Thorn noted that Campbell possesses “the makeup, movement skills, play strength, and competitive toughness to make a smooth transition to guard or center and be an impact starter with Pro Bowl potential during his rookie contract.”

Impact on LSU and Moving Forward

Campbell’s departure signifies a pivotal moment for the LSU Tigers. As a cornerstone of the offensive line, his absence will be felt, and the coaching staff faces the challenge of filling the void left by such a distinguished player. His leadership, both on and off the field, set a standard for his teammates, and his influence contributed significantly to the team’s successes during his tenure.

As Campbell embarks on his professional journey, the LSU community celebrates his contributions and looks forward to witnessing his future accomplishments in the NFL. His legacy at LSU serves as an inspiration to current and future Tigers, exemplifying dedication, excellence, and the profound impact of LSU football.