The New England Patriots made an unexpected trade-up in the first round with the Buffalo Bills for the last remaining offensive tackle projected to go in the top 32 picks: Caleb Lomu out of Utah.
Although he almost exclusively played left tackle in college, the plan is to see what he can do as a swing option, or maybe even move to the right side and eventually replace Morgan Moses as the starting right tackle.
No matter what, he clearly impressed Mike Vrabel and Eliot Wolf, and he will immediately add much-needed depth to a weak group.
Because of his position and the fact that the Patriots took left tackle Will Campbell in the first round in 2025, there isn't much excitement among fans about Lomu's selection. He might have just changed that, however, with his first comments to New England media.
Caleb Lomu says all the right things about his future with the Patriots
In his introductory media availability minutes after the Patriots announced he was their pick, Lomu spoke to local media and had nothing but good things to say about becoming the latest addition to the New England roster.
Not only did he share kind words about his new team, but he had nothing but positive things to say about Drake Maye, while also emphasizing his desire to be a solid protector of the quarterback, similar to what we heard from Campbell last year.
Those comments from him in 2025 certainly helped win over skeptical fans, and surely, these first words from Lomu can do the same.
#Patriots rookie Caleb Lomu on playing with Drake Maye:
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) April 24, 2026
“Drake Maye’s such a talented quarterback. I’m so excited to be able to work with him every day and be able to protect him. I’m a protector. I’m an offensive lineman, and it’s my job to protect that guy.”
(🎥 @Patriots) pic.twitter.com/rd2ryFIOAI
Even better was hearing that Lomu is prepared to do whatever the Patriots ask of him upon joining the team, stressing that he has experience across the offensive line and will play any position that he is expected to.
Most believe he will take over for Morgan Moses in 2027, but his experience could make him an optimal swing tackle option before then. We'll just have to wait and see what the coaching staff feels he is best suited for.
Obviously, it would be best if he could become their franchise right tackle, and based on what he had to say, he sounds like he's up for the challenge. That would make him one of their best picks in recent years, so Patriots fans should cross their fingers that he can deliver.
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