The Chicago Bears currently hold the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which is now less than a month away. As they finalize their draft board, LSU's Will Campbell has emerged as a popular projection for Chicago in mock drafts. However, concerns about his arm length and whether he can succeed at left tackle in the NFL have led some to believe the Bears might pass on him at No. 10, even if he’s still on the board. While Campbell could very easily thrive as a guard at the pro level, the Bears have already strengthened their interior offensive line through free agency and trades.
Despite the doubts, Campbell was recently asked about his ability to play left tackle — and he left no room for debate, confidently stating he can handle the position. The clip quickly went viral, and you can bet the Bears, along with other teams in the top 10, have taken notice.
LSU OT Will Campbell on people scrutinizing his arm length: "For two years, nobody had any measurements on me, and nobody said anything about my play. So now, all of a sudden, arm length decides if I’m a good player or not? I think it’s BS." pic.twitter.com/Pmpz8YQEde
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 26, 2025
"For two years, nobody had any measurements on me, and nobody said anything about my play. So now, all of a sudden, arm length decides if I’m a good player or not? I think it’s BS."
I really appreciate this answer and the confidence Campbell is showing. However, the concerns are valid, regardless of his belief in his ability to succeed at the next level.
Why Arm Length Matters in the NFL
Arm length matters because the NFL factors it into business decisions. It’s not about whether a player is good — it’s about projecting their best chance for success at the next level. Peter Skoronski was an All-American left tackle in college but plays guard in the NFL due to his shorter arm length. Zack Martin was also an All-American left tackle in college, but he became a Hall of Fame-level guard in the NFL for the same reason. As my good friend Nick Whalen, a football analyst, said: Betting on outliers in arm length and wingspan is a bigger gamble at tackle than at guard.
This brings us to the Bears looming decision if Will Campbell is available at No. 10. Do they draft him to replace Braxton Jones at left tackle — knowing that if it doesn’t work out, they might have to move him inside? It’s a tough call, and Campbell's recent comments has only made it harder for teams picking in the top 10 — especially the Bears.
