The 2024 NFL Draft produced an excellent crop of offensive tackle talent. Nine offensive linemen went in the first round, with six offensive tackles selected in the top 20. Looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, there are a decent number of linemen with early-round projections, but it does not look as strong for first-round talent, according to the advance scouts. Two offensive tackles did receive preseason first-round grades, and they are LSU teammates Will Campbell and Emery Jones.
Will Campbell became a starter for the Tigers at left tackle during his freshman season. After a challenging welcome to college football by Florida State edge rusher Jared Verse in Campbell’s first start, Campbell has become a very good left tackle for LSU. The 6-foot-5, 319-pounder has excellent size and should enter the NFL with tremendous developmental experience as a three year starter in the SEC.
Jones had a superb 2023 season, and his preseason grade was just a hair behind Campbell from the advance scouts. The 6-foot-4, 319-pounder is a physical right tackle who would probably start at left tackle at most schools. LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels had a prolific season enroute to winning the Heisman trophy. Campbell and Jones were vital contributors in keeping Daniels healthy and allowing him to get the ball to his pair of first-round wide receivers, Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr.
A lot can and will change in the months to come. More offensive tackle prospects could emerge, and others are likely to rise during the 2024 season. Heading into the season, Campbell and Jones are the top-rated offensive line prospects, and I have both of them going in the top 25 of my latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft.
