Deal confirmed: Will Campbell, the LSU standout drafted fourth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, has officially signed a four-year, $43.6 million rookie contract with the New England Patriots, running through the 2028 season with a team option for a fifth year. The agreement, which includes a $24 million signing bonus and $28 million in fully guaranteed money, represents one of the most lucrative rookie deals of the 2025 class.
Under the terms of the contract, Campbell will receive an average annual salary of $10.9 million, with base salaries escalating from $1.2 million in the first year to $11.4 million by the fourth. If the Patriots exercise the fifth-year opti, Campbell’s fifth-year salary would reach approximately $16 million, payable in 2029—a significant commitment to the young interior defender
pbell, known for his blend of power and agility on the interior defensive line, expressed gratitude following the signing. “I’m thankful to the Patriots organization for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” he said. “I’m ready to get to work, learn from the veterans, and help this team in any way I can.”
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick lauded Campbell’s upside. “Will has the size, strength, and football IQ to be a game-changer at the point of attack,” Belichick said. “We’re excited to integrate him into our defensive front and watch him develop in our system.”
New England’s front office views Campbell as a foundational piece for the next chapter of Patriots football. Defensive coordinator Steve Wilks noted Campbell’s versatility: “He can play both one-technique and three-technique, which gives us flexibility in our defensive alignments. His ability to disrupt the run and collapse the pocket makes him a perfect fit for our scheme.”
Originally from Shreveport, Louisiana, Campbell totaled 86 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and 8 sacks across his final two seasons at LSU. His strong performance at the NFL Combine—featuring a 30-inch vertical leap and a 4.9-second 40-yard dash—solidified his status as a top interior prospect.
With the ink now dry, Will Campbell shifts his focus to the Patriots’ offseason conditioning program and upcoming minicamp. New England fans eagerly anticipate seeing him don the silver and blue, injecting youth and energy into a defensive unit entering a new era. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Campbell as he aims to make an immediate impact and justify the organization’s investment in the No. 4 overall pick.