Last month, the Chicago Bears did a great job fortifying the offensive line in front of Caleb Williams. Two Pro Bowl guards, Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, followed by free agency’s best center, Drew Dalman, dramatically improved the interior blocking. The only question remaining was whether GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson were done. Many believe that the left tackle is a position they also need to address seriously. Braxton Jones won’t be ready for training camp. Kiran Amegadjie remains a project. Finding a true long-term solution at such an important spot might be wise. That is where Will Campbell comes in.
The LSU left tackle has been one of the best in the country for the past three years. He blocked some of the best pass rushers in college football, helping Jayden Daniels win the Heisman in 2023. However, his shorter-than-preferred arms had many wondering if he could slip to the Bears at 10th overall. There is a belief around the league that Chicago would probably take him in such a scenario, but Johnson doesn’t stress length as much as some coaches might. Adam Schefter of ESPN informed Windy City Gridiron of his thoughts on the matter.
Put simply? Don’t bet on it.
“First of all, [the Bears] gave up 68 sacks last year,” Schefter mentioned. “They’ve led the league in sacks allowed the last three years, I believe. They have gone out and traded for Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and added Drew Dalman, so they’ve solidified the interior part of their offensive line. If somehow Will Campbell slid to No. 10 — which I don’t expect — to me, it’s a no-brainer. You take Campbell, you’re slotting him in, you’re protecting your quarterback, and you move forward like that. That’s an easy [pick]. That’s why I just can’t imagine Will Campbell getting out of the [top 10], because at the very worst, Chicago, I would think, would have to take that guy if he were there at 10, and I don’t think he’s going to be there.”
There are too many obstacles between Will Campbell and the Bears.
Several teams in the top 10 have issues on the offensive line. The New England Patriots (#4) are the most obvious. Drake Maye was harassed all season. Jacksonville (#5) has notable concerns along its interior. They may see Will Campbell as a perfect solution at guard. Last but not least is the New York Jets (#7). They have a notable void at right tackle. They may feel they can move Olu Fashanu to that side and put Campbell at left tackle. It is hard to imagine the standout blocker slipping through that net to reach #10, especially with so few quarterbacks expected to go early. Outside of Cam Ward, it is looking like nobody else will go before #9. Schefter is correct. Chicago might do best to prepare for the eventuality that Campbell won’t be available.
