Patriots rookie OT Caleb Lomu reveals first Drake Maye interaction

New England Patriots rookie offensive tackle Caleb Lomu didn't have to wait long to hear from the quarterback he will be protecting for the foreseeable future.

According to Lomu, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye reached out to him after the 2026 NFL Draft. Maye had to be a huge fan of the pick, given the emphasis the team continues to place on improving the offensive line. Starting left tackle Will Campbell was drafted in the first round in 2025, and the team selected another tackle in the first round by trading up and getting Lomu at No. 28 overall in 2026.

So it's clear that the team has big plans in store for the former standout at the University of Utah.

"He actually texted me as well after draft night," Lomu said on Maye, via WEEI. "That was awesome to see, a young quarterback, which I love the energy that he brings to the team, the talent that he has. I’m excited to be able to protect for him and play with him… He's young, so he'll be here for a long time. I plan on staying here for a long time, as well. So very excited to get that.”

The combination of Maye and Lomu should be a fixture for the Patriots organization for years to come.

It makes sense for Maye to become quick friends with a player tasked with protecting him. It also speaks to the increased leadership he has taken on by reaching out directly and welcoming Lomu to the team.

The additions of Lomu and offensive tackle Dametrious Crownover, the rookie sixth-round draft pick, created much-needed offensive line depth that could take the Patriots far in 2026.

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