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By Anne Erickson
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Caleb Lomu hasn't exactly had a smooth introduction to NFL training camp.
The New England Patriots rookie offensive tackle has spent much of the summer learning just how unforgiving those one-on-one reps can be, particularly when you're going against experienced players who aren't interested in making the adjustment to the league any easier.
Lomu has struggled in those matchups early on, which isn't ideal for a first-round pick trying to establish himself. But Monday brought a much-needed change in the conversation.
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On Aug. 10, Lomu went a perfect 3-0 in his one-on-one reps, giving the rookie one of his better days of camp and perhaps a sign that he's starting to settle in. That's worth watching.
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Lomu isn't expected to walk into the Patriots' lineup as a starter right away, so there's no need to panic over a few rough practices. The bigger goal is getting him ready to become a dependable option when the team needs him.
His versatility could make him particularly valuable. Lomu has the potential to serve as a swing tackle, meaning he could provide depth on both the right and left sides of the offensive line. That's the kind of flexibility coaches love to have, especially once injuries inevitably start testing the depth chart.
For now, though, Lomu needs to keep stacking days like Monday. One strong practice doesn't erase the struggles he's had, but it does provide some evidence that he's adjusting. Rookie offensive linemen have a particularly unpleasant learning curve, and there's a big difference between looking overwhelmed early in camp and never figuring things out. Lomu has lots of time to close that gap.
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The Patriots drafted him in the first round because they clearly believe there's a lot to work with. If Monday's performance is the beginning of a trend rather than a one-day blip, Lomu could start looking much better as the preseason approaches.
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