The New England Patriots were aggressive in finding protection for their young star quarterback Drake Maye on Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
They addressed their need for offensive line help by trading up from No. 31 overall to No. 28 to select Utah tackle Caleb Lomu. A first-team All-Big 12 selection last season, Lomu has the potential to develop into an elite pass protector long term.
Our Patriots insider Phil Perry noted that while “guys like Caleb Lomu don’t grow on trees,” the 21-year-old has plenty of developing to do from a finishing standpoint.
So, was trading up to snag Lomu the right move for New England?
Perry gave the Patriots’ first-round selection an A- grade. Here’s his analysis:
The Patriots had a glaring need at offensive tackle, a premium position, and were able to land one of the top seven in this draft class with their first pick. The expectation in Foxboro was that they’d be out of luck on the tackle front, so kudos to them for trading up to get the last tackle standing.
A 21-year-old with room to grow — both physically and as a finisher — Lomu will need some time to develop, but he’ll get exactly that with Morgan Moses and Will Campbell projected to start.
Had the Patriots lucked into Clemson’s Blake Miller or Arizona State’s Max Iheanachor, this would be a straight “A,” but Lomu’s rare physical skill set and the scarcity of the position he plays makes this about as ideal a pick as New England could’ve made with the way the board fell.
With tackle checked off the list, the Patriots can shift their attention to other areas of need on Day 2. Edge defender, linebacker, wide receiver, and tight end should be their priorities.
Barring another trade, New England’s next pick will be 63rd overall in the second round.
Watch the 2025 season highlights and NFL Draft tape for Utah Utes offensive tackle Caleb Lomu. Caleb Lomu has quickly emerged as a standout talent on the Utes’ offensive line, combining impressive athleticism with the raw power required to dominate the trenches. This reel highlights his quick feet in pass protection, his explosive drive in the run game, and the high-motor playing style that has caught the attention of NFL scouts.
