Caleb Lomu — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 3.0

The Browns have too many holes on the offensive line to leave Round 1 without drafting at least one player who can help them up front.

It's no secret that pass protection ranks among the Texans' biggest weaknesses. A year after drafting left tackle Aireontae Ersery in the second round, Houston revisits its offensive line by taking Lomu with its first pick of the 2026 draft. The 6-6, 304-pound Utah product has some developing to do, but he should eventually serve as a quality bookend to Ersery and help bolster C.J. Stroud's line.

Spencer Fano is the Utah OT who gets the most attention, but he may not be the only one off the board by the end of the first round. Caleb Lomu isn't an incredible athlete (in the context of NFL OTs), but he's a coach's dream when it comes to technique and fundamentals. He'll be starting at RT in the NFL for 10 years.

Lomu pairs with Aireontae Ersery to give the Texans young bookends to build around on the offensive line.

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 moved over to the right side, could slide in at tackle or guard for New England. (Note: 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.

While the center position might be the most important area for the Lions' offense to improve this season, a tackle succession plan might not be too far behind, especially now that Dan Skipper is retiring. Lomu plays calm with light feet, and he has a good frame but could stand to add strength to take his game to the next level. I'm bullish on Lomu and think he could end up as a good starter on the blindside as he matures. A timeline behind Taylor Decker with Hank Fraley coaching him would be an ideal situation.

Life after Trent Williams is coming sooner rather than later. We know he's coming back for 2026, but he'll be 38. And you always need some depth along the offensive line. Lomu could be a potential successor to Williams. He played a lot of left tackle at Utah, making him a solid fit for the 49ers.