Patriots Draft: Lomu, Jacas, Raridon

0:00It's April 25th, welcome to NFL News Today, powered by AI and ready for kickoff. The New England Patriots just knocked out their top three roster needs, heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, defensive edge, offensive tackle, anti-dend. They traded up to the 28th spot in the first round for Utah's Caleb Lomu at tackle. Then on day 2, they moved to 55th overall in the second for Illinois-Edger Usher, Gabe and grabbed Notre Dame tied in Eli Raridon at 95th in the third. These picks fit the Patriots' blueprint perfectly under Mike Ravel, young guys with serious experience. Lomu's 21 with 24 starts over two years at Utah. Joccas, also 21, brings 50 games and 43 starts. Raridon just turned 22 with 40 games and 18 starts despite being a recent starter. Players are already vibing with the Pat's tough, physical style. Joccas raved about outside linebacker's coach Mike Smith after a pre-draft visit, saying it

1:02felt like the perfect fit for his game. Raridon highlighted his versatility, ready to block and catch explosive plays, bringing that all around edge to team craves. Both Friday picks have multi-sport routes boosting their skills. Raridon balled in high school basketball for better footwork, Joccas wrestled four years to sharpen handfighting on the edge. Plus, strong Patriots ties, Joccas' Illinois coach Brett Biilema won a ring here and Raridon's dad played under ex-coordinator Charlie Weiss at Notre Dame. Eli sparked the most pre-picked debate as the board's top tight end available but his size and upside sealed it. With five day three picks starting late in the fifth, Elliott Wolfe's eye more trades to keep building the squad right.