Mike Onwenu's Versatile Journey on New England Patriots' Offensive Line
In a move that solidifies the New England Patriots' offensive line for the upcoming seasons, Mike Onwenu has inked a three-year, $57 million contract. The deal, secured this March, is a testament to Onwenu's versatility and value to the Patriots' offensive front.
Selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Onwenu quickly adapted to the demands of professional football. He stepped into the league as a right tackle and spent his rookie season cementing his role at that position. His performance was nothing short of impressive, given the typical challenges faced by late-round picks adjusting to the NFL's intensity and skill level.
In his sophomore season, Onwenu showcased his adaptability by splitting duties between right and left tackle. His ability to switch sides of the line with relative ease highlighted his fundamental skills and football intelligence. By 2022, the Patriots had identified another need Onwenu could fill, moving him to right guard for most of the season. This positional shift underscored his flexibility and team-first mentality.
Onwenu ended the 2022 season back at right tackle, a position he resumed during the Organized Team Activities (OTAs). However, during mandatory minicamp, another shift occurred as he moved to right guard and remained there throughout the first practice of training camp. Meanwhile, Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle spot, demonstrating the Patriots' ongoing experimentation with their offensive line configuration. Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle position, Sidy Sow played at left guard, and David Andrews held down the center position, ensuring stability in the middle of the line.
“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,” Onwenu reflected on the shuffles. His comments reveal the dynamic nature of the Patriots' approach to their offensive line, emphasizing practice and preparation over fixed roles.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of versatility among his linemen. “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.”
The frequent adjustments and role changes might be surprising to some, but for Onwenu, it's another day at the office. “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 explained, underscoring his comfort with the multifaceted demands placed upon him.
As the team transitions from OTAs and minicamps to more intense training camp practices, Onwenu highlighted the significance of these sessions for solidifying the line. “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,” he detailed, hinting at the fluid nature of position battles as the season approaches.
Alongside Onwenu, other notable players, such as Jacoby Brissett, took reps during practice sessions, further indicating the Patriots' intent to evaluate all potential scenarios. Each position on the line will be scrutinized to ensure that the final configuration provides the best protection and run-blocking effectiveness for the Patriots' offense.
With his new contract, Onwenu has secured his place as a key component of the Patriots' future. His journey from a late-round pick to a foundational player on the offensive line is a testament to his work ethic, skill, and adaptability. As the Patriots continue to refine their lineup, Onwenu's versatility will undoubtedly remain a crucial asset in their quest for success.