The initial selection in the 2026 New England Patriots draft class has put pen to paper.
Offensive tackle Caleb Lomu officially signed his rookie contract on Monday, the organization announced.
Lomu, 21, landed at pick No. 28 overall in April’s first round. The Utah product marked the seventh tackle prospect off the board. He moves forward with a four-year, $18.2 million deal that includes a fifth-year option and a slotted
signing bonus north of $9 million.
A former four-star recruit, Lomu checked into three games during his first collegiate campaign. From there, he started all 24 of his appearances at left tackle for the Utes. No sacks were allowed by the 6-foot-6, 313-pound redshirt sophomore last fall on the way to first-team All-Big 12 honors.
“He’s been an unbelievably coachable player,” Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel said of Lomu during organized team activities in late May. “He’s young, he’s big, he’s athletic, and he’s willing to learn. He’s excited about learning. So, where he plays, we want to end up with the five best linemen. I think he’s going to have the ability to play both sides.”
Eight of New England’s nine draft arrivals have now agreed to terms, leaving only second-rounder edge defender Gabe Jacas unsigned heading into mandatory minicamp.
Last month, quarterback Behren Morton, running back Jam Miller, tight end Eli Raridon, offensive tackle Dametrious Crownover, inside linebacker Namdi Obiazor, outside linebacker Quintayvious Hutchins and cornerback Karon Prunty all signed their pacts in Foxborough.
