The biggest talking point during the draft process with LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell has been his arm length.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Campbell measured in with 32 ⅝ inch arms, and then at his Pro Day, he hit the 33-inch marker. For some teams, that may still be too short, with many organizations desiring at least 34-inch arms at the offensive tackle positions.
For Bears offensive line coach Dan Roushar – who is entering his 41st season in coaching and first season with Chicago – he unpromptedly brought up Campbell when asked about the importance of arm length at the offensive tackle position.
“Here's what I think,” Roushar said. “I watched a lot, I'm sure we are referencing a guy like Will Campbell. So the measurables are the measurable, but when the film goes on, you don't see short arms. You see a very accomplished left tackle that has exceptional balance, is exceptional hand placement. He knows how to use the tools that he's been given, and he has done it at a high level from early in his career to today. So, as a coach, you're watching that, and all you can do is evaluate the play, and he gets high marks from us. "
It seems pretty clear that the Bears are high on Will Campbell
There’s plenty that stands out about Roushar’s comments, starting with the fact that he called Campbell an “accomplished left tackle.” They may seem obvious, since that’s the only position the 6-foot-5, 319-pound lineman played while he was at LSU for three seasons, but some NFL teams may “project him best as an interior blocker,” as stated in The Athletic’s “The Beast” by Dane Brugler.
Roushar also highlighted that Campbell “gets high marks from us.” It’s not just Roushar who is evaluating these draft prospects, but the area scouts, general manager Ryan Poles and assistant general manager Ian Cunningham and of course Ben Johnson, to name a few.
Given what Campbell has accomplished in college, being a three-year starter who has only given up four sacks in 2,548 snaps and has done so against some of the top competition in the SEC, he should be viewed – despite desired arm length or not – as one of the top prospects in this upcoming draft.
Rouschar understands that nine teams select ahead of the Bears in the first round, so there may not be an opportunity to draft Campbell. But it’s clear Chicago has done its homework on him, and the overall body of work has left a positive impression on the organization.