Patriots Mock Draft Roundup: Experts Eye Offensive Line Help

New England looks to bolster protection for QB Drake Maye after Super Bowl loss

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, top analysts have weighed in on who the New England Patriots may select in the first round. Many experts predict the team will focus on upgrading the offensive line to better protect quarterback Drake Maye, who was sacked a playoff-record 21 times in the Super Bowl loss. Names like Caleb Lomu, Blake Miller, and Monroe Freeling have been floated as potential Patriots picks to shore up the tackle and guard positions.

Why it matters

The Patriots' run to the Super Bowl highlighted the need to improve their offensive line, which struggled to keep Maye upright against the league's top pass rushers. Upgrading the trenches is a priority for New England this offseason as they look to build around their young QB and make another championship push.

The details

Several draft analysts have the Patriots targeting offensive tackles in the first round, including Utah's Caleb Lomu, Clemson's Blake Miller, and Georgia's Monroe Freeling. These prospects are seen as potential plug-and-play starters who could slide in at tackle or guard to bolster the Patriots' front five. Other names linked to New England include edge rusher R. Mason Thomas out of Oklahoma and defensive tackle Christen Miller from Georgia.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April.
  • The Patriots' Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks was on February 11, 2026.

The players

Drake Maye

The Patriots' starting quarterback, who was sacked a playoff-record 21 times in the Super Bowl.

Caleb Lomu

A 6'6", 304-pound offensive tackle prospect from the University of Utah, who is projected as a potential first-round pick for the Patriots.

Blake Miller

A 6'6", 315-pound offensive tackle from Clemson University, another player linked to the Patriots in first-round mock drafts.

R. Mason Thomas

An edge rusher out of the University of Oklahoma, who some analysts believe could be a target for the Patriots to bolster their pass rush.

Christen Miller

A defensive tackle from the University of Georgia, projected as a potential Patriots pick to add depth to their defensive line.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Field Yates, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

“For all the talk about Drake Maye and the Patriots' defense, reaching the Super Bowl with two rookies manning the left side of the offensive line is truly a remarkable achievement and a testament to both offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and offensive line coach Doug Marrone.”

— Rob Rang, Fox Sports Analyst (Fox Sports)

“Drake Maye was sacked an NFL playoff record 21 times, including six times in New England's Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks. Lomu's handwork and consistency in remaining upright prevents edge rushers from blowing past his shoulders, and he has strong instincts.”

— Ryan Wilson, CBS Sports Analyst (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The Patriots will have the opportunity to address their offensive line needs during the 2026 NFL Draft, which is scheduled for late April.

The takeaway

The Patriots' Super Bowl appearance highlighted the need to further strengthen their offensive line to better protect quarterback Drake Maye. By targeting top tackle and guard prospects in the first round, New England can invest in the trenches and give Maye the support he needs to lead the team back to the championship game.