Mike Onwenu's Journey with the New England Patriots
In March, the New England Patriots demonstrated their commitment to Mike Onwenu by securing him to a three-year, $57 million contract. This move signifies the high regard the organization holds for the versatile offensive lineman, who has shown remarkable adaptability since being selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Onwenu initially entered the league as a right tackle and spent his rookie season solidifying his role in that position. His second year saw him take on a dual role, splitting duties between right and left tackle. Such flexibility has been a key component of Onwenu's value to the Patriots.
In 2022, the Patriots shifted Onwenu to right guard for the majority of the season. However, by the end of the year, he found himself back at right tackle, demonstrating his capacity to switch positions as needed. During OTAs, he continued at right tackle, only to move to right guard during mandatory minicamp, retaining this position throughout the first practice of training camp.
During a notable practice session, Calvin Anderson was observed at right tackle while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle position. Sidy Sow played at left guard, David Andrews held the center spot, and Jacoby Brissett took reps, emphasizing the dynamic and evolving nature of the Patriots' offensive line.
Onwenu's versatility has not gone unnoticed. Reflecting on his shifting roles, he noted, “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.”
Head Coach Jerod Mayo also emphasized the importance of adaptability within the offensive line. “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 multifaceted skill set has been a significant asset. Reflecting on his unexpected shifts, he said, “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.” This flexibility has allowed him to contribute effectively, regardless of where he is placed on the line.
Understanding the importance of these early evaluations, Onwenu added, “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.”
As the Patriots continue their journey, Onwenu's versatility and commitment will undoubtedly play a crucial role. This capacity to adapt and excel across multiple positions not only underpins his value but also speaks volumes about the team's strategic vision for success. With a significant new contract in place, all eyes will be on how Onwenu continues to influence and reinforce the Patriots' offensive line.