In a surprising turn of events, reports have emerged suggesting a communication breakdown between LSU Tigers’ head coach Brian Kelly and standout offensive lineman Will Campbell. Sources indicate that Campbell has expressed a desire to leave the program, citing irreconcilable differences with the coaching staff.
The Rise of Will Campbell
Will Campbell, a native of Monroe, Louisiana, joined LSU as a highly touted recruit from Neville High School. His commitment to the Tigers was seen as a significant win for the program, especially given his status as one of the top offensive linemen in the 2022 recruiting class. From the onset, Campbell showcased exceptional talent and leadership, earning a starting position at left tackle as a true freshman.
Over his three-year tenure at LSU, Campbell’s performance on the field was nothing short of stellar. He started in all 37 games, demonstrating consistency and resilience. His efforts did not go unnoticed; Campbell was honored as a consensus All-American in 2024 and received First-Team All-SEC accolades in both 2023 and 2024. Additionally, he was awarded the prestigious Jacobs Blocking Trophy in 2024, recognizing him as the SEC’s top blocker.
The Emergence of Tensions
Despite his on-field success, internal dynamics within the LSU football program began to shift. Following a series of underwhelming performances during the 2024 season, the team faced a three-game losing streak. In response, Campbell, alongside quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, spearheaded a players-only meeting to address the team’s challenges. Campbell candidly stated, “It’s not a coaching problem. It’s on us.”
However, behind the scenes, sources suggest that the relationship between Campbell and Coach Brian Kelly began to deteriorate. The exact reasons remain speculative, but insiders point to disagreements over coaching strategies and player management. The situation escalated to the point where communication between the two reportedly ceased altogether.
Campbell’s Decision to Depart
The culmination of these tensions led to Campbell’s decision to leave the program. In December 2024, reports surfaced indicating that Campbell had terminated his contract with LSU and confirmed his intent to depart from the team.
This announcement sent shockwaves through the LSU community and the broader college football landscape. Given Campbell’s pivotal role on the offensive line and his leadership qualities, his departure represents a significant loss for the Tigers. Gist
Implications for LSU Football
Campbell’s exit adds to a growing list of challenges for Coach Brian Kelly and the LSU football program. The team is set to lose four starters on the offensive line, with Campbell and fellow tackle Emery Jones declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft, and starting guards Garrett Dellinger and Miles Frazier exhausting their eligibility.
Replacing such integral components of the offensive line will be no small feat. The coaching staff will need to rely on incoming recruits and existing players to step up and fill the voids. The situation is further complicated by the reported internal discord, which may impact team morale and the recruitment process.
The Broader Context
This development comes at a time when LSU is striving to regain its footing in the highly competitive SEC. The 2024 season did not meet the program’s high standards, and the loss of key players like Campbell only adds to the hurdles ahead.
Moreover, the reported breakdown in communication between a star player and the head coach raises questions about the internal culture and management within the program. For a team aiming to attract top-tier talent and compete at the highest levels, fostering a cohesive and supportive environment is paramount.
Looking Ahead
As the Tigers prepare for the 2025 season, the focus will undoubtedly be on rebuilding and addressing the internal issues that have come to light. Coach Brian Kelly, known for his extensive experience and previous successes, faces the critical task of uniting the team and restoring confidence both within the locker room and among the fan base.
For Will Campbell, his departure from LSU marks the end of a significant chapter in his football career. As he transitions to the next phase, whether it be entering the NFL Draft or exploring other opportunities, his time with the Tigers has solidified his reputation as a formidable offensive lineman with a bright future ahead.
In conclusion, the reported cessation of communication between Will Campbell and Coach Brian Kelly, leading to Campbell’s decision to leave LSU, underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in collegiate athletics. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between player development, coaching strategies, and the overarching goal of team cohesion and success.
The Larger Conversation: Athlete Well-being and Mental Health
Ben Christman’s passing has also sparked broader discussions surrounding the physical and mental well-being of collegiate athletes. While much of the focus has been on potential cardiac issues or other undiagnosed health conditions, some experts have also emphasized the importance of mental health awareness in student-athletes.
In recent years, the NCAA and various athletic programs have increased their attention on the mental health struggles faced by young athletes, including stress, anxiety, depression, and the immense pressure to perform at a high level. With rigorous training schedules, academic responsibilities, and the constant scrutiny of performance, many student-athletes experience overwhelming stress.
Although no information has surfaced to suggest that mental health played a role in Christman’s passing, his sudden death has reignited conversations about how universities can better support the holistic well-being of their players. Institutions such as Ohio State, Kentucky, and UNLV have already begun expanding mental health resources for their athletes, offering increased access to counseling and wellness programs.
Christman was widely regarded as a positive and resilient individual, but his passing serves as a reminder that universities and sports organizations must remain vigilant in providing support systems for all aspects of an athlete’s health.
The Emotional Toll on Teammates and Coaches
For those who knew Christman personally—especially his teammates and coaches—his passing has left an emotional void that will take time to heal. Many of his fellow players described him as the kind of teammate who made everyone around him better, both on and off the field.
For UNLV head coach Dan Mullen, Christman’s death has been particularly difficult, as he had just begun to build a relationship with the young athlete. “In the short time we had with Ben, he left a huge impression on this team. His work ethic, his heart, and his leadership were evident from the start. This loss is heartbreaking, and we will carry his spirit with us moving forward.”
At the University of Kentucky, where Christman spent a pivotal year recovering from injury and working to make his comeback, coaches and teammates have also struggled to process his passing. Kentucky’s offensive line coach Zach Yenser said, “Ben was the definition of perseverance. Even when he was injured, he found ways to contribute and lift up his teammates. He was always there to encourage others, and that’s what we’ll remember about him the most.”
Ohio State, where Christman started his collegiate career, has also expressed profound sadness. Head coach Ryan Day spoke about the lasting impact Christman had on the Buckeye program, saying, “Ben was a hard worker and a great teammate. He embodied what it meant to be a Buckeye, and he will always be part of our family.”
Players across all three programs have mentioned the difficulty of returning to practice and games without their teammate. Many have emphasized the importance of leaning on each other for support during this challenging time.
Remembering Ben Christman Beyond Football
Although Christman was best known for his achievements on the football field, those who knew him personally describe a young man who was much more than just an athlete. He was a devoted son, a caring friend, and someone who always looked out for others.
His former high school coach, Mike Murphey, shared a touching story about Christman’s character. “When Ben was a senior, we had a freshman on the team who was struggling with confidence. Without anyone asking him to, Ben took that kid under his wing. He stayed after practice to help him, encouraged him during drills, and made sure he never felt left out. That’s just the kind of person Ben was.”
His kindness extended beyond the football field. Christman was known for volunteering at local youth camps and mentoring younger athletes. Even as he juggled the demands of being a student-athlete, he found time to give back to his community.
His family has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received, noting that hearing stories about Ben’s impact has been a source of comfort in their grief. “Ben was our pride and joy,” his mother, Lisa Christman, shared in a statement. “While we are devastated by his passing, we find solace in knowing how many lives he touched and how deeply he was loved.”
A Future Built in His Honor
As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring that Christman’s legacy is honored in meaningful ways. In addition to scholarships and jersey retirements, there have been discussions about creating an annual award in his name—one that recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional leadership, perseverance, and kindness, qualities that defined Christman throughout his life.
At UNLV, the football team has dedicated the upcoming season to Christman, with plans to wear a special patch bearing his initials and jersey number. The university has also announced plans for a moment of silence before their first home game of the season.
Kentucky and Ohio State have also expressed interest in commemorating Christman in their respective programs. Talks are underway about a potential preseason scrimmage between Kentucky and Ohio State in his honor, with proceeds going toward athlete health initiatives and scholarships in his name.
His family has also established the Ben Christman Foundation, aimed at supporting young athletes, promoting health awareness, and funding research into the prevention of sudden cardiac issues in student-athletes. The foundation’s mission is to ensure that tragedies like this can be prevented in the future.
A Lasting Impact on the College Football Community
The tragic loss of Ben Christman is a somber reminder of the unpredictability of life. As his family, friends, and teammates continue to mourn, they also celebrate the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.
His story is one of perseverance, dedication, and selflessness. Whether through the scholarship funds created in his honor, the ongoing discussions about improving health screenings for athletes, or the memories he left with those who knew him, Christman’s influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
His journey—filled with challenges, triumphs, and unwavering commitment—has touched the hearts of many. Though his time on this earth was cut tragically short, the impact he made in his 21 years is immeasurable.