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In a strategic move this March, the New England Patriots solidified their offensive line by securing versatile lineman Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract. The Patriots' decision underscores the high regard in which they hold Onwenu, who has demonstrated remarkable versatility and reliability since entering the NFL.
Onwenu’s Journey
Selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Onwenu initially stepped into the league as a right tackle, quickly establishing himself during his rookie season. His ability to adapt was evident as he split his duties between right and left tackle in his second year, showcasing the flexibility that has become a hallmark of his career.
The 2022 season saw the Patriots reposition Onwenu to right guard, a move that he handled with the same professionalism and competence that has characterized his tenure with the team. By the end of the same year, he once again found himself stepping back into the right tackle role, a position he resumed during the team’s Organized Team Activities (OTAs).
Shifting Roles
During mandatory minicamp, however, Onwenu was shifted back to right guard, and he held this position throughout the first practice of training camp. This maneuver was part of a broader strategy to identify the most effective combination of players for the offensive line. Calvin Anderson and Chukwuma Okorafor filled in at right and left tackle respectively, while Sidy Sow played at left guard and David Andrews anchored the center position. The presence of quarterback Jacoby Brissett in practice sessions added another layer of complexity to the team dynamics.
Onwenu’s ability to switch positions seamlessly is not just a testament to his talent but also his commitment to the team’s success. "It was essentially just practice in a few places. Days in and days out, we're going to be switching around, and it's going to be different lines, so just getting the best five out there and practicing, every guy practicing each position, and just knowing that you can play that position,” he remarked.
Coach's Perspective
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability within the team. “I've had this conversation with AVP [Alex Van Pelt]. I've also talked to Mike and the rest of those offensive linemen. Look, we're going to put the best five players out there on the field as an offensive line. If that means you've got to play guard or play tackle, I don't know. We'll see, it'll play itself out in camp. That's my mindset, it's about putting the best players on the field.”
Onwenu's approach to his shifting roles has been both practical and professional. “It was a little surprising. Pretty much as a football player, I've done it in the past. I started as a guard, started as a jumbo tackle, and then I played tackle. It's just one of the positions that I play,” he reflected.
Looking Ahead
This season, the Patriots' offensive line strategy will likely continue to evolve as they aim to put their best squad on the field. Onwenu's experience and adaptability make him a critical asset in this endeavor. “It is very important. It's early now so we had the OTAs, we had the spring, but we're getting into live football now. As the practices and the days go on, we'll see who fits where and how that fits with the best five,” Onwenu said, emphasizing the ongoing process of optimization within the team.
The coming months will be pivotal as the Patriots finalize their offensive line configurations. Onwenu's performance and willingness to adapt will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the team's success on the field.