Patriots’ First-Round Pick Will Campbell Dedicates NFL Dream to Late LSU Teammate Kyren Lacy
The 2025 NFL Draft turned deeply emotional for Will Campbell, the New England Patriots’ new cornerstone offensive lineman. Selected fourth overall, Campbell’s joy was touched with sorrow as he honored his late LSU teammate, Kyren Lacy, who tragically passed away just days before the draft.
Fighting through tears on the biggest night of his young career, Campbell reflected not only on reaching the NFL but on the deep loss he felt inside. “It means everything to me,” he said, his voice breaking. “I’m going to fight and die to protect our quarterback with everything I have.” Yet his mind was clearly elsewhere—on the friend he’d lost far too soon.
In a heartfelt tribute, Campbell wore a pin featuring Lacy’s No. 2 jersey number on his draft-night suit. “Kyren was a special human being,” Campbell shared. “He wasn’t just a great athlete. He was a phenomenal teammate, a loving son, a protective brother, and just an incredible soul.”
Campbell’s voice cracked as he added, “This weekend, he should’ve been hearing his name called too. Even though he’s not here physically, he’s walking across that stage in spirit. I feel honored to have shared part of this journey with him.”
The Tragic Loss of Kyren Lacy
According to reports from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, tragedy struck when Lacy, following a heated family dispute, fired a shot into the ground and fled the scene. After a police pursuit in Spring, Texas, authorities discovered Lacy had suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
At the time of his death, Lacy was under investigation for his involvement in a fatal car crash in Louisiana that had occurred in December 2024, which claimed the life of a 78-year-old man. Despite these hardships, Lacy’s future in football still looked promising.
Kyren Lacy had transferred to LSU in 2022 and quickly became a key player. In 2024, he delivered his breakout season: 58 receptions, 866 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns—impressive numbers that had scouts taking notice ahead of the draft.
More Than a Teammate, A Brother
Campbell’s tribute wasn’t just a passing mention—it was a powerful reminder of how deeply athletes are connected beyond the game. His emotional reaction resonated across social media, with fans, players, and the wider football community expressing support, mourning Lacy, and applauding Campbell’s courage and heart.
The NFL is a world filled with fierce competition, but moments like these highlight the humanity behind the helmets. They remind us that dreams are sometimes chased with heavy hearts—and that honoring those who left too soon makes the journey all the more meaningful.
As Will Campbell embarks on his NFL journey with the Patriots, he does so carrying the spirit of a brother, a teammate, and a friend who, even in absence, continues to inspire.
