Best Of Patriots on WEEI: Thoughts on Caleb Lomu

The WEEI Afternoons episode reviews the New England Patriots' selection of offensive tackle Caleb Lomu with the 28th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, sparking strong criticism from hosts Jones and Keefe. They express surprise and disappointment at the pick, particularly since the Patriots traded up from 31st to 28th to select Lomu, a player they describe as a depth piece with significant physical and positional concerns—small hands, lack of run-blocking strength, and limited experience on the right side. The hosts argue the team had a far greater need at edge rusher and could have addressed it with a first-round pick, especially given their Super Bowl appearance and lack of defensive starters in that area. They question the strategic logic, suggesting the pick feels like a misstep in a draft where value and impact mattered more than position. The episode also delves into the ongoing fallout from Mike Vrabel’s personal scandal involving a female insider, with hosts scrutinizing his decision to miss the third day of the draft for counseling. They find the timing suspicious, especially since the draft is a critical team event, and question whether Vrabel’s absence reflects a genuine commitment to family or a calculated compromise. The hosts remain skeptical about his ability to maintain authority and authenticity as a coach amid the controversy. Despite the draft misstep, they remain hopeful that the Patriots can still improve through later-round picks, especially if they trade up for a high-impact edge rusher or tight end. Key takeaways include: (1) The Patriots’ first-round pick of Caleb Lomu was a strategic misstep given their clear need at edge rusher; (2) Vrabel’s absence during the draft raises serious concerns about his availability and focus; (3) The team’s commitment to Will Campbell as a left tackle is questionable, especially with Lomu drafted at the same position; (4) The Patriots should leverage their multiple late-round picks to address their biggest needs; (5) The NFL is wisely staying out of the Vrabel scandal, avoiding a potential media firestorm; (6) The Red Sox’s offensive struggles continue to frustrate fans, with criticism of their hitting approach and reliance on Driveline; (7) The Rams’ selection of Ty Simpson at 13th overall is seen as a strange move, especially given Sean McVay’s apparent disinterest; (8) The Patriots’ offseason may still be salvageable if they make impactful trades or picks in rounds two and three.