Patriots’ Lomu pivots to right tackle in 2026 offseason shift
Caleb Lomu has moved from left to right tackle during organized team activities, earning praise from head coach Mike Vrabel for his versatility and rapid adjustment to the opposite side.
The New England Patriots are accelerating the positional transition of first-round draft pick Caleb Lomu, who is moving from left tackle to right tackle during the 2026 offseason. The 21-year-old has accumulated extensive repetitions with the starting offense at right tackle throughout organized team activities and the initial days of mandatory minicamp. This shift follows the selection of Will Campbell at left tackle in the 2025 draft, establishing a new bookend pairing for the offensive line.
Lomu’s adaptation involves significant technical adjustments, particularly regarding hand usage and footwork. Having played left tackle throughout his college career, he is now reversing his footwork rhythm and striking with his right hand. The rookie has emphasised the importance of repetition, utilising time before and after practice to refine his timing and ensure the new mechanics feel natural.
Head coach Mike Vrabel has highlighted Lomu’s quick learning curve and willingness to adapt as key assets. Vrabel noted that the rookie does not rely on past comfort zones, instead embracing the novelty of the position. The coach praised Lomu’s flexibility, observing that he rarely repeats mistakes and has successfully integrated into the starting unit’s rhythm.
The volume of practice opportunities has been facilitated by nominal starting right tackle Morgan Moses, who has been managed on a limited snap count this spring. This arrangement has allowed Lomu to work extensively alongside guard Mike Onwenu and the first-team offense. When the first unit is off the field, Lomu continues to gain experience by lining up at left tackle with the second-stringers, further enhancing his utility.
Lomu projects as a backup swing tackle behind the Campbell and Moses pairing for the upcoming season. His ability to perform competently on both sides of the line is viewed as crucial for depth. The rookie program will continue beyond the current phase, which marks the end of full-team capacity workouts for the season, as the team prepares for training camp.
