Patriots veteran offensive linemen ready to step up for injured rookies

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Patriots veteran offensive linemen ready to step up for injured rookies

Mark Daniels · MassLive

Mon, Nov 24, 2025 ·

3 min read

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CINCINNATI – Mike Vrabel preaches that all his players need to prepare like they're starters. The hope is that when they're called upon, they'll be able to step in and up for their teammates.

It's one thing to prepare like that, but it's another to actually get reps and play in a game.

That's why Vederian Lowe and Ben Brown say they're prepared to step up for the Patriots offense after the team lost Will Campbell (knee) and Jared Wilson (ankle) to injuries in Sunday's win over Cincinnati.

On Monday, it was reported that Campbell suffered an MCL sprain while Wilson suffered a high-ankle sprain. Both will keep the rookies out for an extended period.

Lowe said that he felt prepared to play in Cincinnati in part due to his situation last season. The 26-year-old started 13 games for the Patriots at left tackle.

"It prepared me a lot," Lowe said. "I take every day seriously. Watching the guys, taking the corrections they get, and applying it to myself. Just waiting for my opportunity, when my number is called to get out there and go out there and perform."

Campbell has been a force for the Patriots at left tackle and has provided a much-needed upgrade at the position. His ability is why the team drafted him with the No. 4 overall pick. This season, Lowe has worked as the Patriots' top backup left tackle, but hasn't taken many reps due to Campbell's play.

However, he was able to lean on his experience to help the team on Sunday. Lowe played 803 snaps at left tackle last season and entered the game with 1,083 career snaps at the position. When Campbell exited the game at 4:58 of the third quarter, Lowe came in and tried to settle down.

"It's really next man mentality, next man up," Lowe said. "I'm ready to go. Go in there, produce and do my job. That's what coach says each and every week, prepare like you're a starter, no matter what your role is. Everyone has a role, and you always have to prepare to play. Seeing that, I really feel for Will. He works really hard. He grinds. He's a great player. I have to be ready to go in there and perform."

The situation was similar for Brown.

A right guard in college, the veteran started at center last season for the Patriots. He earned the top backup center job this offseason, but did such a good job in training camp that he also competed with Wilson at left guard.

When Wilson missed the Patriots Week 4 matchup against Carolina, Brown started that game, marking his first start at left guard in his football career. He finished that game with a clean sheet, allowing no quarterback hits or sacks.

On Sunday, when Wilson went down in the first drive, Brown was ready.

"Really, to be focused. You never know when you're going to go in the game," Brown said. "It could be in a moment's notice, just like that. Bring prepared during the week and like coach Vrabes says, prepare like a starter every week."

With Campbell and Wilson both being carted off the field, it seems likely the Patriots will be without their starting left tackle and left guard for some time. It'll be important for Lowe and Brown to step up.

Both say they're ready for the opportunity.

"The more reps I get, the more comfortable I become, Lowe said. "I was just happy to be out there and contribute to a win."

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