Why Caleb Lomu Might Be the Right Call for Chicago Bears at No. 25 Overall
If the Chicago Bears want to keep building around Caleb Williams the right way, investing in a true left tackle like former Utah offensive lineman Caleb Lomu (6'6", 313 pounds) makes a lot of sense in the first round.
Lomu brings the kind of smooth pass protection and movement skills that translate immediately to the NFL, giving Chicago a long-term answer on the blindside.
In an offense expected to lean on timing, spacing, and quarterback comfort under Ben Johnson, Lomu’s ability to handle speed rushers and keep the pocket clean fits exactly what this system demands.
Overall Evaluation
Caleb Lomu projects as a starting-caliber left tackle with one of the more translatable pass protection profiles in the 2026 class. The defining trait is his ability to move in space, specifically how controlled and efficient he is in true pass sets against edge speed.
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He plays with balance, length, and composure that translate immediately. Lomu is a tackle who can step into a role early as a pass protector, with his long-term ceiling tied to how much functional strength he adds to his frame.
Play Style & Traits
Lomu is a movement-based pass protector who wins with footwork, balance, and length rather than overwhelming power.
He consistently:
- Maintains clean, controlled pass sets
- Stays square to rushers without opening early
- Mirrors edge speed with fluid footwork
His pass protection profile includes:
- Smooth kick slide with proper depth
- Patience against speed rushers
- Ability to guide defenders past the pocket
He plays with composure in isolation. Rather than overextending, he trusts his technique and allows rushers to declare, which keeps him in position to recover and stay attached through the rep.
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Against speed, he looks comfortable. Against power, there are more questions.
In the run game, his profile shifts.
He shows:
- Ability to reach and seal on outside zone concepts
- Mobility to climb to the second level
- Positioning to wall off defenders
However, his run blocking is more positional than physical.
He does not consistently:
- Generate movement at the point of attack
- Displace defenders with power
- Finish blocks with authority
His effectiveness comes from angles and positioning rather than force, which limits his impact in downhill run schemes.
Strengths
- High-level footwork and movement ability in pass protection
- Controlled, balanced pass sets with strong mirroring ability
- Length to keep defenders off his frame
- Composure against speed rushers
- Ability to operate in space and execute zone concepts
- Functional technique that translates early
- Reliable positioning and body control
Concerns
- Anchor vs power rushers is inconsistent
- Lacks dominant play strength at the point of attack
- Run blocking lacks consistent displacement and finishing
- Base can narrow under stress, leading to leverage issues
- Wins more with technique than physical control
Projection
Immediate contributor with starting upside at left tackle.
Lomu projects as a starting left tackle who will bring reliable pass protection and functional run-blocking ability in a zone-based system.
Final Grade: Late 1st Round
