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NFL Legend Gives Strong Advice to Patriots’ Will Campbell

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Griffin Goodwyn | Last updated Jun 6, 2025 5:30 PM ET

Upon closer observation of Andrew Whitworth's and Will Campbell's backgrounds, it does not come as a shock that the two have developed a strong bond.

Whitworth and Campbell grew up in Monroe, Louisiana, which is just under 200 miles from the state capital of Baton Rouge, where they both played college football at LSU. They even played the majority of their collegiate snaps at the same position: left tackle.

Over the years, the two have engaged in continuous conversation, as Whitworth saw Campbell continue on an upward trajectory that strongly mirrored his own, and Campbell looked up to Whitworth as both a mentor and friend.

"I've been in those shoes. So, I think it's important, when you've been there, to give a little love back," Whitworth told NESN.com's Sean T. McGuire. "That's really the dynamic of our relationship. We're from the same place. We've got a lot of respect for each other."

Whitworth has remained close to Campbell as he transitions into the next stage of his career, and he offered some advice to Campbell before the New England Patriots youngster begins his journey in the professional ranks.

"I think one of the biggest things for all young athletes is to continue to be yourself," Whitworth said. "What makes you special? Don't lose sight of that."

Whitworth added that he believes Campbell's new surroundings will allow him to succeed on and off the field early in his career.

"When you look at Gillette [Stadium], and you look at that setup in Foxborough, that is Monroe and West Monroe, Louisiana, on a much bigger scale," Whitworth said. "The colors, the environment, the setting in the middle of the community... I mean, that is really what the Patriots are in that environment. So, that sense of pride and that element that he's going to be in is going to remind him a lot of playing in North Louisiana."

Campbell, who the Patriots selected with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, signed a four-year, $43.66 million contract with the team on Tuesday. $28.39 million of that contract was guaranteed as a signing bonus.

Campbell was a Consensus All-American, All-SEC First Teamer, and winner of the Jacobs Blocking Trophy (which is awarded annually to the top offensive lineman in the SEC) in his final collegiate season with the Tigers.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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