“Don’t Panic”: Maxx Crosby Defends Patriots Rookie After Super Bowl Struggles
After a difficult outing in the New England Patriots’ 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, rookie offensive tackle Will Campbell has faced sharply negative feedback about his performance. Campbell allowed 14 quarterback pressures in the big game, a figure that stood out as one of the highest in the NFL this season. As criticism built across social media and fan circles following his struggles, Maxx Crosby stepped forward with his perspective on the situation, urging patience and development rather than panic, emphasizing that Campbell’s flaws are fixable with the right coaching and offseason work.
- Krishna Sagar
- 4 min read
The stakes could not have been higher for the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX. Facing a dominant pass rush from the Seattle Seahawks, New England’s offensive line struggled to contain pressure throughout the game, contributing to six sacks and a stagnant offensive performance.
At the center of much of the scrutiny was rookie left tackle Will Campbell, the LSU product selected fourth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, who allowed a league-leading 14 pressures in the championship contest. That total stood out in stat sheets and coverage across the NFL, and it intensified a conversation about Campbell’s readiness at the professional level.
Campbell’s postseason difficulties were not isolated to the Super Bowl. Throughout the Patriots’ playoff run, the 22-year-old struggled against elite defensive fronts, allowing multiple sacks and pressures that compounded the perception of inconsistency.
Criticism of Campbell’s play has not only come from fans but also from analysts questioning whether the Patriots might consider moving him to another position such as guard. Amid this debate, Maxx Crosby offered his thoughts on Campbell’s future and how the team should handle the development of a young offensive lineman still learning the game.
1. Crosby’s Take: Stay Calm, Build Skills
Speaking on “The Rush” Podcast earlier this week, Crosby addressed the widespread chatter surrounding Campbell’s struggles and the speculation that the Patriots should abandon him at tackle. Crosby stressed that Campbell’s challenges do not warrant a drastic move to guard or a premature judgment on his position.
Instead, Crosby highlighted that technical refinement and confidence building are the keys to improvement for a young lineman who still has significant upside. 
“I don’t think you just panic and move him to guard right away,” Crosby said, noting that Campbell was drafted highly for a reason. He explained that offensive line play, especially at left tackle, requires both refined technique and strong mental confidence, elements that typically develop with time and coaching at the professional level.
Crosby’s defense of Campbell underscored the importance of patience in player development. Rather than labeling a single poor outing as definitive, Crosby urged that the Patriots stick with their young tackle through offseason work and coaching that can
2. A Star’s Perspective Holds Weight
Crosby’s voice in this debate carries weight because of his own accomplishments as a defensive standout. He has established himself as one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL, with a career that includes multiple double-digit sack seasons and a reputation for consistently winning individual matchups against elite offensive linemen.
His credibility on matters of pass protection makes his defense of Campbell’s future more than just casual support - it offers a measured view from someone who regularly exploits offensive line weaknesses.
His success and understanding of offensive line mechanics lend credence to the argument that Campbell’s struggles on the biggest stage may be surmountable with adjustments and growth rather than position changes.
Crosby’s comments suggest that a long view is more appropriate than reacting to one difficult game, even if it was the Super Bowl.
3. The Road Ahead for Campbell
Criticism alone does not improve a young player’s performance. Campbell’s willingness to address his mistakes publicly and to work through adversity will play a huge role in shaping his future. The offseason now becomes a critical period for him to refine technique, build strength and translate first-year experience into growth.
Veterans such as Terron Armstead and Willie Anderson have even offered mentorship to help him develop, telling Campbell to model parts of his game after the polished techniques of seasoned offensive linemen. This level of peer support may help him as he seeks to bounce back in the 2026 season.
For the Patriots, the conversation around Campbell represents a larger question about roster building, offensive line construction and long-term investment in young talent.
The organization’s decision to stick with him at left tackle and not react to one game may prove wise if Campbell can translate coaching and preparation into measurable improvement on the field.