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Patriots trade up to draft Caleb Lomu, No. 28

sportsApr 24, 202623413

The New England Patriots traded into the No. 28 overall pick and selected Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu in Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft. Lomu, a First-Team All-Big 12 selection, allowed zero sacks in 2025 and brings rare length and athleticism after helping Highland High School win Arizona state titles in 2021 and 2022. Scouts say he is a stronger pass protector than run blocker and needs to add strength, and New England projects him as a swing tackle this season with an eye toward starting him at right tackle down the line. The pick creates a clearer long-term offensive tackle plan for the Patriots alongside last year’s selection of Will Campbell.

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