Top 7 Offensive Tackles the Patriots Should Target in 2026 NFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching, and the New England Patriots are preparing to make impactful selections. With their pick at 31st overall, the team is in a unique position after two years of top-five selections. Although they drafted left tackle Will Campbell previously, they may still look to bolster their offensive tackle lineup this year.
Current Offensive Line Situation
This offseason, the Patriots reaffirmed their confidence in left tackle Will Campbell. Now healthy, the 22-year-old is expected to improve his performance after a challenging postseason that included a knee injury. Opposite Campbell, veteran Morgan Moses returns. The 35-year-old performed well last season, starting all 21 games. However, the Patriots will seek his future replacement.
Depth remains a concern. Vederian Lowe, the top backup, has moved on, while Thayer Munford Jr. is still a free agent. Currently, the only player from last season’s roster on the depth chart is 2025 seventh-round pick Marcus Bryant. The team also signed James Hudson III during free agency, while Lorenz Metz and Sebastian Gutierrez continue to develop after spending last season on the practice squad.
Top Offensive Tackle Prospects for the Patriots
The Patriots have several prospects to consider at the offensive tackle position. Here are the top candidates they might pursue:
- Blake Miller (Clemson) – A durable right tackle, Miller played 54 consecutive games and holds the Clemson record for offensive snaps with 3,778. Consensus ranking: 28.
- Max Iheanachor (Arizona State) – After starting football in 2021, Iheanachor has shown potential at right tackle. He fits the athletic profile and size for NFL tackles. Consensus ranking: 36.
- Dametrious Crownover (Texas A&M) – At 6’7″ with 35-inch arms, Crownover has the physical attributes teams desire. However, his transition from tight end may necessitate a developmental year. Consensus ranking: 104.
- Jude Bowry (Boston College) – Familiar to the Patriots, Bowry is a team captain and possesses experience at both tackle positions. Consensus ranking: 117.
- Markel Bell (Miami) – At 6’9″, Bell is an imposing figure who did not allow sacks last season, demonstrating his ability at left tackle. Consensus ranking: 124.
- Austin Barber (Florida) – With 39 starts in the SEC, Barber is versatile but needs to improve his technique. Consensus ranking: 126.
- Travis Burke (Memphis) – A formidable presence at over 6’8″, Burke’s aggressive playing style makes him valuable. He has 46 starts across both tackle positions. Consensus ranking: 187.
Other Notable Prospects
Additionally, potential first-round options include:
- Kadyn Proctor (Alabama)
- Caleb Lomu (Utah)
Other players of interest are Diego Pounds (Ole Miss), Fa’alili Fa’amoe (Wake Forest), Drew Shelton (Penn State), J.C. Davis (Illinois), and Isaiah World (Oregon), who is recovering from a torn ACL. Although Caleb Tiernan (Northwestern) ranks highest for Day 2, he is more commonly viewed as a guard.
The Patriots have numerous paths to consider in the upcoming draft. Strengthening their offensive line will be crucial as they aim to return to playoff contention.
