O-line prospect's moxie makes him mesmerizing draft target for Jaguars

• So he may not be a bad pick at No. 5 after all.
Mar 1, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana State University offensive lineman Will Campbell (OL05) answers questions at a press conference during the 2025 NFL Combine at Indiana Convention Center.
Mar 1, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana State University offensive lineman Will Campbell (OL05) answers questions at a press conference during the 2025 NFL Combine at Indiana Convention Center. | Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

Draft prospect Will Campbell has been under lots of scrutiny because of his arm length or lack thereof. This is understandable because playing left tackle requires a minimum measurement. However, the former LSU Tiger doesn't think it is the big deal it's made to be and pushed back against criticism. This competitiveness should be intriguing for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Following his pro day, Campbell says that his arm length shouldn't be an issue in the NFL, pointing out that the issue hadn't been brought up during his collegiate career.

"For two years, nobody had any measurements on me, and nobody said anything about him play," Campbell told the press corps. "So now, all of a sudden, an arm length decides if I'm a good player or not? I think it's B.S."

Campbell's arms measured in at 32 5/8" at the scouting combine and 33" at his pro day. Neither measurement is great, at least when it comes to his potential NFL viability, as the benchmark for offensive tackles is 34".

On the other hand, it's understandable that the 2024 All-American is taking issue with the criticism. After all, never was his arm length an issue at LSU. In fact, he routinely showed the athleticism, strength and technique to take on defensive linemen.

Heck, Campbell will be a top-15 pick regardless of his measurement, and that's because he's showcased the ability to deliver. Having said that, there's been chatter that he could move to offensive guard in the NFL. That's probably not what he would like, but it could ultimately help him have the most success.

College offensive tackles such as Zack Martin, Brandon Scherff, and Tyler Smith made the transition to offensive guard in the NFL. More recently, Peter Skoronski made the switch with the Tennessee Titans.

Related story: The Jaguars' draft plans take a massive hit after the Giants sign Russell Wilson

Why the Jaguars must strongly consider Will Campbell

There are different paths the Jacksonville Jaguars can take with the fifth overall pick, and most of them make sense. And while they made upgrades to the offensive line in free agency, they must continue to beef it up in the 2025 NFL Draft.

When the Jags are on the clock, defensive tackle Mason Graham and two-way star Travis Hunter may be available. Both would be great players in Jacksonville, but Will Campbell also has a compelling case to get his name called.

Campbell may or may not be suited to play offensive tackle in the NFL, but at worst, he could be a pretty good guard. The Jacksoknville brass could have him compete with Walker Little for the left tackle job, and if he loses, he could move inside. Conversely, the coaching staff could plug in at left guard right off the bat and compete with incumbent Ezra Cleveland for the starting nod.

Granted, Hunter would round out the wide receiver corps, and Graham could do the same for the defensive line. However, bolstering the offensive line would ensure that the Jags establish the run and keep Trevor Lawrence protected.

Of course, the Jaguars could also draft an offensive guard/tackle in Rounds 2 or 3, but none may have as much upside as Will Campbell. That's why nobody should bat an eye if he's the pick at No. 5.

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