Campbell’s Injury and IR Move

In a significant shakeup to the New England Patriots’ offense, starting left tackle Will Campbell has been placed on injured reserve. The 21-year-old rookie suffered a sprained MCL in his right knee during the team’s Week 12 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. This move, the writing on the wall as coach Mike Vrabel put it, will keep Campbell out for at least “four games, maybe more.”

Vederian Lowe: The New Starting Left Tackle

With Campbell sidelined, the stage is set for Vederian Lowe to assuming the starting left tackle role. Lowe, who joined the Patriots via trade from the Vikings in 2022, had filled in for Campbell after his injury and was the most established non-starting tackle on the roster. Vrabel confirmed that Lowe would be the starter “for the foreseeable future.”

• Lowe’s Experience: The 24-year-old has played in 21 combined games over his first two seasons with the Patriots. He revealed that he had played through a torn labrum down the stretch last season.
• Upcoming Schedule: With Campbell out, the Patriots’ “soft” schedule will present Lowe with an opportunity to showcase his skills. Their upcoming opponents’ combined win percentage is the lowest in the NFL (.346).

Patriots’ Bye Week and Campbell’s Eligibility

The Patriots’ Week 13 bye will give the team some extra time to prepare for their remaining games. Campbell will be eligible to return for the final game of the regular season against the Miami Dolphins. His recovery status will determine the likelihood of his return.

“Campbell will be ready to go after the bye,” said Vrabel.

Jared Wilson: Another Offensive Lineman on the mend

Adding to the Patriots’ offensive line woes, left guard Jared Wilson is also Week-to-Week with a high ankle sprain. He will miss at least Week 13 against the New York Giants and potentially more games. The Patriots will have a brand-new left side of the line for at least one game and likely more.

Upcoming Schedule

• Week 13: vs. New York Giants – December 1 (Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET)
• Week 15: vs. Buffalo Bills – December 14 (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
• Week 16: at Baltimore Ravens – December 21 (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)
• Week 17: at New York Jets – December 28 (Sunday, 1 p.m. ET)

Takeaways

• Patriots’ starting left tackle Will Campbell is out for at least four games.
• Vederian Lowe steps into the starting role, with an opportunity to impress in the Patriots’ remaining “soft” schedule.
• Jared Wilson is week-to-week with a high ankle sprain, leaving the Patriots with a brand-new left side of the line for at least one game.