How Will Caleb Lomu Fit into the Patriots’ Plans?

In the New England Patriots’ crushing Super Bowl LX defeat against the Seattle Seahawks, they had a recurring, game-losing problem: the offensive line.

Drake Maye was sacked six times and pressured 19 times. Mike Vrabel knew he needed to fix this issue, so the Patriots traded up for an elite tackle in this year’s draft, Caleb Lomu.

Who is Caleb Lomu?

Caleb Lomu was born and raised in Gilbert, Arizona. Coming out of high school, Lomu was a 4-star recruit on 247Sports and would end up committing to the Utah Utes. In his freshman season at Utah, he redshirted and appeared in only a handful of games; then, in his sophomore year, he became the starting left tackle, starting in all 12 games and being named midseason All-American by The Athletic.

In Lomu’s junior year, it all came together as he once again earned all 12 starts and allowed only 8 pressures and 0 sacks.

 

One of the best seasons a collegiate offensive lineman could have, and because of that success. He became very sought after; according to Yahoo Sports, “several teams” asked about Caleb Lomu. Clearly, New England wanted him the most, trading up to No. 28 to select him.

Why Caleb Lomu?

Caleb Lomu is one of the elite pass protectors in this class. He uses his athleticism to his advantage. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein stated, “Very athletic getting out of stance and into lead pulls or cut-off blocks,” and “pass sets with good posture, rarely ducking head and leaning.” He also stated, however, that he could improve his footwork.

Lomu’s outstanding production is exactly what New England is looking for. Drake Maye has proven that if given time, he can do special things. New England is banking on the fact that Lomu will be able to replicate his junior year in the NFL.

A Will Campbell Problem

In last year’s draft, the Patriots used their top-five pick on a top prospect, Will Campbell.

The problem with this is that Lomu and Campbell play the same position, left tackle, so currently it’s up for grabs where Lomu will play this season. Although during OTAs, he has been getting reps at left and right tackle. This could also be a blessing in disguise, as Lomu will be able to sit and develop further rather than being “thrown to the wolves.”

Head coach Mike Vrabel was quoted as saying, “I think he’s going to have the ability to play both sides. We’re going to have to have five good ones that can protect Drake, as well as a swing tackle.” Something also of note for Lomu is that the current starting right tackle, Morgan Moses‘, contract is almost up, as 2027 will be the final year of his contract, and Moses is an older tackle, currently 35 years of age.

With Moses’ age and contract in mind, Lomu may need to start his career in a new position.