As the top candidates for the New England Patriots to draft started to come off the board, there was a growing concern that they wouldn't be able to snag a player who addresses one of their biggest needs without trading up. That's likely what made the decision to do so, and they struck a deal with the Bills for No. 28 overall to select tackle Caleb Lomu out of Utah.
While the offensive line needs more help, the decision to draft another left tackle after taking Will Campbell was an immediate head-scratcher. Some speculated it might be proof that Mike Vrabel and Eliot Wolf are thinking of moving him to guard, especially since he played poorly after returning from injury in the playoffs and the Super Bowl.
But the EVP of Player Personnel shut that down immediately while speaking to reporters after the pick, essentially cooling down the ongoing chatter about Campbell's future on the offensive line.
Eliot Wolf doubles-down on keeping Will Campbell at left tackle in 2026
In an effort to defend the Lomu pick and Campbell's stance on the roster, Wolf didn't hesitate with his response about keeping him at left tackle and using the rookie's experience across the offensive line as a reason to test him out on the right side.
"Will is the left tackle. Caleb has some versatility. Some of the Pro Day Workouts he did were on the right side. We were comfortable with that. He is very athletic, so I don't think either side will be a problem for him."
LIVE: Eliot Wolf Round 1 Draft Press Conference https://t.co/MAcNMJ5rha
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) April 24, 2026
The assumption is that Lomu will use the 2026 season to learn from Morgan Moses, who is entering the final year of guaranteed money on his contract, and most assume he will be cut or retire in 2027. He can help mentor Lomu to be his successor and give the Patriots their next starting right tackle in one year.
It's a perfect scenario, and if things go downhill with Campbell this upcoming season, then they might have a left tackle in waiting to replace him, instead.
Picking another offensive lineman might not be the most exciting decision, but prioritizing protection around Drake Maye is the right move, so Lomu is a sensible pick in more ways than one.
Add us as a preferred source on Google