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As the NFL Combine approaches each year, scouts, coaches, and analysts eagerly dissect every piece of data that could give insight into a prospect’s potential at the next level. Among the most scrutinized metrics for offensive linemen are arm length and hand size. These physical attributes are often used to assess a player’s ability to engage with defenders, control the line of scrimmage, and protect the quarterback. This year, LSU’s standout offensive tackle, **Will Campbell**, has found his arm length in the spotlight as NFL scouts evaluate his potential ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.

While Campbell is widely regarded as one of the top offensive tackle prospects in this year’s draft class, his arm length has become a point of contention during the pre-draft process. Although it’s not an immediately obvious measure of a player’s ability to play the position, arm length can be a crucial factor in determining how well an offensive lineman can maintain separation from pass rushers, protect the pocket, and prevent defenders from getting into their body.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the importance of arm length for offensive tackles, the scrutiny Campbell’s measurements have received, and how this could impact his draft stock. We’ll also explore what Campbell brings to the table beyond his arm length and why he remains a highly regarded prospect despite some concerns.

### **Arm Length: Why It Matters for Offensive Tackles**

Before diving into the specifics of Campbell’s arm length, it’s important to understand why this particular measurement is so heavily scrutinized for offensive tackles. In the NFL, offensive tackles must be able to engage defenders while keeping them at arm’s length. The longer a player’s arms, the more leverage they have in fending off pass rushers, controlling defensive linemen, and staying in position to block. Longer arms allow for better extension, giving tackles the ability to keep defenders from getting into their bodies and preventing them from disengaging as easily.

**Arm length is also a key factor in pass protection.** A tackle with shorter arms may have to rely more on body positioning and footwork to counteract speed and power rushes, whereas a tackle with longer arms has more room to react to different types of pass rush techniques. This is particularly true for outside tackles, who are often tasked with protecting the quarterback’s blindside and are facing edge rushers who can be quicker and more explosive.

**In the running game**, longer arms also help a tackle seal off defenders on outside runs and create lanes for the running back. A tackle with long arms is more effective at maintaining control in the trenches and can move defenders out of the way with greater ease.

For these reasons, scouts have become increasingly focused on arm length measurements, especially when evaluating elite tackle prospects. Of course, arm length isn’t the only measure of a player’s ability, but it’s a significant factor when assessing how a prospect will perform in the NFL.

### **Will Campbell’s Arm Length Scrutiny**

At the NFL Combine, the scrutiny of **Will Campbell’s arm length** has caused a bit of a stir. According to reports, Campbell’s arm length came in slightly shorter than some NFL teams would prefer, measuring around 33 inches. While this is still within the acceptable range for most offensive tackles, it is on the shorter side when compared to other elite tackle prospects. For context, the average arm length for NFL offensive tackles tends to hover around 34 inches, with many top-tier tackles measuring between 34 and 35 inches.

This has raised some eyebrows among NFL evaluators who see arm length as a key trait for a tackle’s ability to compete against the elite pass rushers in the league. While 33 inches isn’t drastically short, it does place Campbell in a slightly different category than some of his peers, especially when compared to other highly regarded prospects like **Paris Johnson Jr.** from Ohio State and **Olumuyiwa Fashanu** from Penn State, both of whom boast longer arms.

Despite this perceived disadvantage, it’s important to remember that arm length is just one component of a player’s overall ability to succeed at the next level. Campbell’s shorter arm length may be a talking point, but it doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll struggle against NFL pass rushers. In fact, Campbell’s overall skill set may outweigh the impact of his arm length, and NFL teams could look past this small discrepancy in favor of his other strengths.

### **Campbell’s Strengths Beyond Arm Length**

Despite the questions surrounding his arm length, **Will Campbell** remains one of the most talented offensive tackle prospects in the 2025 draft. The LSU product has proven himself to be a dominant force on the Tigers’ offensive line, both as a pass blocker and in the running game. Let’s take a closer look at some of the qualities that make Campbell such an intriguing prospect:

#### **1. Strong Technique and Footwork**

Campbell’s technical proficiency is one of the standout features of his game. While he may not have the longest arms in the class, his ability to use his hands, feet, and body positioning to control defenders is what sets him apart. His **quick and fluid footwork** allows him to mirror pass rushers and stay balanced, even when defenders attempt to engage with his upper body. This skill set is essential for any offensive tackle, especially when facing the quick and powerful edge rushers that populate the NFL.

#### **2. High Football IQ**

In addition to his physical traits, Campbell has a strong understanding of the game. He has shown the ability to read defenses, adjust to different pass rush techniques, and react quickly to blitzes or stunts. His football IQ is a key factor in his success as an offensive tackle, and this will serve him well at the NFL level.

#### **3. Versatility and Physicality**

Campbell is a physically imposing player who excels in both the pass and run game. He’s aggressive at the point of attack and uses his strength to dominate defenders. His ability to **drive defenders off the ball** in the running game makes him a valuable asset in any scheme, particularly for teams that prioritize power running. Additionally, Campbell’s ability to adapt to different blocking schemes—whether in a zone or power system—will make him an appealing option for a variety of NFL teams.

#### **4. Strong Resume at LSU**

As a key member of LSU’s offensive line, Campbell has faced some of the best defensive linemen in college football. His time in the SEC has prepared him for the challenges he’ll face in the NFL, and his success against elite competition cannot be overlooked. He was a consistent presence for LSU, and his performance in big games—such as his efforts in high-pressure SEC matchups—further underscores his readiness for the next level.

### **How the Arm Length Scrutiny Impacts His Draft Stock**

While Campbell’s arm length might be a point of concern for some scouts, his overall skill set remains highly respected. It’s unlikely that his arm length will significantly affect his draft position, especially given his other attributes. NFL teams will value his technique, physicality, and ability to play in high-pressure situations more than a fraction of an inch in arm length.

That being said, it’s still possible that some teams may downgrade Campbell slightly based on this metric, especially if they place a high value on longer arms for offensive tackles. However, his draft stock could be bolstered by the fact that he possesses many of the other traits that NFL teams covet, including excellent footwork, power in the run game, and the versatility to adapt to different blocking schemes.

Ultimately, Campbell’s ability to perform well in drills, interviews, and team workouts during the pre-draft process will be crucial. If he shows that his arm length hasn’t hindered his ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage, his draft stock is likely to remain strong.

### **Conclusion: Will Campbell’s Future in the NFL**

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Will Campbell is still very much in the conversation as one of the top offensive tackle prospects. While his arm length may be slightly shorter than other elite tackles, his overall talent and performance at LSU speak for themselves. The scrutiny of his arm length is just one small piece of a much larger picture, and his combination of technique, physicality, and football IQ make him an exciting prospect for NFL teams looking for a starting-caliber offensive tackle.

In the end, Campbell’s success in the NFL will depend on more than just his measurements. Teams will consider his overall game, how he adapts to the next level, and whether his shorter arms truly hinder his ability to protect the quarterback and create lanes in the running game. Regardless of the arm-length debate, it’s clear that Will Campbell has a bright future in the NFL.