Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu has declared for the NFL draft, he announced Tuesday on Instagram.
"First, I want to thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to chase my dreams. None of this would be possible without Him, and I am truly grateful. To my family and close friends, thank you for your unwavering support and for every sacrifice you have made throughout my life. Your love has carried me to this moment. I would not be able to turn my dreams into reality without you, and I am blessed to have each of you in my corner," read a statement from Lomu.
"I also want to thank the University of Utah, Coach Whittingham, Coach Harding, and the entire support staff for believing in me, developing me, and giving me the opportunity to play college football. Thank you for helping shape me into the man and player I am today. Your guidance and support pushed me to grow on and off the field."
The 6-foot-6, 308-pound redshirt sophomore helped anchor one of the nation's best offensive lines, which helped Utah gain 269.8 rushing yards per game (second-best in the country). Lomu allowed just eight pressures and no sacks this season, according to Pro Football Focus.
He was named to this year's All-Big 12 first team.
Lomu entered the year with plenty of NFL draft buzz, and after a good season, could be selected in the first round.
Field Yates' latest mock draft on ESPN has the Detroit Lions selecting the Utah star with the No. 17 pick in the draft, while Max Chadwick of Pro Football Focus has the San Francisco 49ers selecting Lomu with the No. 27 pick.
Lomu is the first Ute to officially declare for the 2026 NFL draft, with fellow tackle Spencer Fano expected to follow soon.
With Lomu and Fano headed to the NFL and Jaren Kump, Michael Mokofisi and Tanoa Togiai out of eligibility, Utah will need to replace its entire starting offensive line next year.
