When the New England Patriots selected Caleb Lomu in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, it didn't take long for the rookie to hear from his new quarterback. Drake Maye was quick to send a text on draft night, and that gesture left a lasting impression on the young offensive tackle.

"He actually texted me after draft night," Lomu shared during his introductory press conference at Gillette Stadium. "That was awesome to see."

For Lomu, that connection is just the beginning. He's eager to see Maye in action, especially after the quarterback's impressive performance last season. "Young quarterback," Lomu said. "I love the energy that he brings to the team, the talent that he has."

But Lomu isn't just thinking about the short term. He's already envisioning a long partnership with Maye in New England. "I'm excited to be able to protect for him and play with him," Lomu explained. "He's such a young guy with so much left of him, experience, and talent. I'm excited to be able to play for that for many years."

The Patriots are making it clear that protecting Maye is a top priority. For the second straight draft, New England used a first-round pick on an offensive tackle—Will Campbell in 2025 and now Lomu in 2026. Campbell is expected to hold down the left side, while Lomu is being groomed as the replacement for 35-year-old Morgan Moses on the right.

If everything falls into place, the Patriots will have their starting tackles locked in for years to come. With Maye under center and two young, talented linemen protecting him, New England is building a foundation that could pay dividends for the long haul.