Patriots’ Victory Overshadowed by Injury to Rookie Will Campbell
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots celebrated a hard-fought 26-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 12, pushing their record to an impressive 10-2. However, the joy of the win was tempered by a significant injury to rookie left tackle Will Campbell, who left the field on a cart in the second half. Initial reports suggest that Campbell may have suffered an MCL sprain, with an MRI pending to determine the full extent of the damage.
Injury Concerns for Campbell and Wilson
As the team braces for potential setbacks, Campbell is a strong candidate for injured reserve. The hope remains that he could return in time for the playoffs. In a further blow to the offensive line, rookie lineman Jared Wilson has also been sidelined with a high-ankle sprain, placing him on a “week-to-week” status. Typically, high-ankle sprains require a recovery period of 4-6 weeks, but the Patriots are optimistic that Wilson’s healing process might be quicker. Unfortunately, it seems likely that he too will land on injured reserve, casting doubt on his availability for the early playoff games.
With both Campbell and Wilson out, the left side of the Patriots’ offensive line has been severely compromised. Replacing their productivity will be a daunting challenge, and the team will need to lean on their reserves to maintain the momentum they’ve built heading into the postseason.
Next Man Up: Key Reserves to Watch
In light of these injuries, head coach Mike Vrabel, offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, and offensive line coach Doug Marrone will be counting on a group of reserves to step up. Here’s a look at seven players who may play pivotal roles in the coming weeks.
Vederian Lowe
The 6-foot-5, 315-pound Vederian Lowe stands out as the most experienced option among the reserves. With 13 career starts for the Patriots at left tackle, he is well-equipped to fill Campbell’s role. In the game against the Bengals, Lowe logged 30 snaps and earned a respectable 62.7 pass-block grade from Pro Football Focus. His size and experience will be vital in stabilizing the offensive line during Campbell’s absence.
Ben Brown
Ben Brown brings a wealth of experience to the table, having started 10 games at center for the Patriots in 2024. This season, he has served as the primary backup to starter Garrett Bradbury. At 6-foot-5 and 313 pounds, Brown’s versatility was demonstrated in training camp, where he competed for the starting left guard position. In his only start this season against the Carolina Panthers, he excelled, allowing no quarterback hits or sacks.
Marcus Bryant
Despite being a raw prospect, Marcus Bryant, standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 317 pounds, has shown promise since joining the team. The Patriots recognized his potential after he started 29 games at SMU and 13 at Missouri. His agility and impressive size could make him an intriguing option to back up Lowe at left tackle, particularly given his ability to match up against outside rushers.
Caedan Wallace
Though Caedan Wallace has not seen game action this season, he could be called upon if Campbell’s recovery extends longer than anticipated. The Penn State product has prior experience, playing in six games with one start during his collegiate career. While some may be hesitant about his shift from right tackle to left tackle, Wallace has trained in that role during both rookie minicamp and training camp last season.
Sebastian Gutierrez
Sebastian Gutierrez has had a varied NFL journey, spending time on practice squads with multiple teams before joining the Patriots. The 6-foot-5, 308-pound tackle was originally a rookie free agent with the Denver Broncos. With limited game experience, including a brief appearance for the Raiders in 2022, Gutierrez may provide depth as the Patriots adjust their offensive line.
Brenden Jaimes
Brenden Jaimes joined the Patriots’ practice squad in September after a stint with the Los Angeles Chargers. At 6-foot-5 and 300 pounds, Jaimes was a fifth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft and has already played in 45 regular-season games. He was elevated from the practice squad earlier this season and has contributed on special teams.
Andrew Rupcich
Andrew Rupcich began his NFL career as a rookie free agent with the Tennessee Titans. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 325 pounds, he has played in 12 games with two starts at right guard. After spending significant time on the practice squad, Rupcich was signed to the 53-man roster and has seen action in five games this season.
As the Patriots navigate these injuries, it will be crucial for their depth players to rise to the occasion. With the playoffs looming, the team’s ability to adapt and maintain performance will be tested like never before.
