The New England Patriots are set to bolster their offensive line following a challenging end to the 2025 season. Despite a commendable run to Super Bowl LX, the Patriots’ offensive front struggled significantly against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. Quarterback Drake Maye was sacked six times and pressured on another 11 occasions, highlighting glaring weaknesses on the line.
Rookie left tackle Will Campbell received much of the criticism after Sunday’s 29-13 defeat, but struggles were evident across the entire offensive line on such a critical stage. This has led many analysts to predict that New England will prioritize reinforcing the offensive line in the upcoming draft.
### Patriots Eye Offensive Line Help in 2026 NFL Draft
Several 2026 NFL mock drafts suggest that the Patriots will use their first-round pick (No. 31 overall) to add talent on the line of scrimmage. ESPN’s Field Yates recently projected that New England could select offensive tackle Caleb Lomu from the University of Utah with this pick.
Lomu, who primarily played left tackle over the past two seasons, also has experience at guard — a versatility that could prove valuable for the Patriots. Yates noted:
> “The Patriots’ run to the Super Bowl was impressive, but it underscored the team’s need to beef up quarterback Drake Maye’s protection. Lomu, who took over at left tackle for Utah in 2024 when Fano shifted to the right side, could slide in at tackle or guard for New England.”
Despite this, Yates emphasized that:
> “I am a firm believer that the Patriots should stay fully committed to Will Campbell at left tackle, as coach Mike Vrabel has already stated will be the case. Lomu needs to further develop his strength, but the 6-foot-6, 304-pounder is already a solid pass protector who did not allow a single sack in 2025.”
### Mike Vrabel Stands Behind Will Campbell
There has been widespread debate about Campbell’s postseason struggles and whether the Patriots might seek a new left tackle. However, head coach Mike Vrabel recently reaffirmed his confidence in the 22-year-old lineman.
Speaking on Tuesday, Vrabel said:
> “When you sign up to play left tackle, you sign up to play corner, you sign up to play quarterback, you sign up to be head coach, you get judged. You get scrutinized. Will’s 22 years old. He’s our left tackle. He’ll get better. He’ll get stronger.”
He added:
> “Moments where he played well. Moments where he blocked the guy. There are plays he’d like to have back. We’re not moving Will to guard or center or to tight end or anywhere else.”
### Versatility Could Benefit the Patriots’ Offensive Line
Even if Campbell remains the starter at left tackle, adding a versatile lineman like Lomu could offer the Patriots valuable depth and flexibility. Lomu could eventually replace aging right tackle Morgan Moses, who will turn 35 in March, or step in at left guard if needed to fill the role vacated by Jared Wilson.
While it’s uncertain whether Lomu will still be available at pick No. 31, it’s clear that strengthening the offensive line will be a priority for the Patriots when the 2026 NFL Draft arrives in April. With their Super Bowl appearance spotlighting both the team’s strengths and vulnerabilities, New England looks ready to invest in protecting their franchise quarterback and building a more formidable offensive front.
https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2026/02/11/new-england-patriots-mock-draft-nfl-football-offensive-lineman-caleb-lomu-utah/
