In a strategic move that underscores their commitment to bolstering the offensive line, the New England Patriots have secured Mike Onwenu with a three-year, $57 million contract in March. Selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Onwenu has rapidly become a cornerstone of the Patriots' line, showcasing versatility and resilience across multiple positions since his entry into the NFL.
A Versatile Asset
Onwenu's journey in the league is a testament to his adaptability and skill. Initially stepping into the professional arena as a right tackle, he spent his rookie season solidifying his presence in that role. However, his second year marked a shift as he began splitting duties between the right and left tackle positions, a flexibility that has proven invaluable to the Patriots.
The 2022 season saw another strategic move, with Onwenu being positioned primarily at right guard. His ability to adapt was on full display again as he ended the season back at right tackle, a position he resumed during the team’s Organized Team Activities (OTAs).
During the mandatory minicamp, Onwenu shifted once more to right guard, maintaining this position throughout the first practice of training camp. This constant movement, though potentially challenging, is something Onwenu has embraced, highlighting his team-first mentality. “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.
Strategic Positioning in Training Camp
The Patriots’ coaching staff, led by Head Coach Jerod Mayo, has placed a premium on versatility and ensuring the best combination of players on the field. “I've had this conversation with AVP [Alex Van Pelt]. I've also talked to Mike and the rest of those offensive linemen,” Mayo stated. “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.”
Indeed, the Patriots' commitment to finding the optimal lineup was evident during a notable practice session where Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle position while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow played at left guard, with David Andrews maintaining his role as center, illustrating the fluidity and depth chart experimentation crucial to building a formidable offensive front.
Onwenu's Mindset and Adaptability
For Onwenu, versatility is not new. “It was a little surprising,” he admitted about his frequent positional changes. “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.” His comments reflect a player who is not only prepared for the demands of his role but also one who thrives on them.
The Patriots are in a pivotal period as they work to identify the best five players to fortify their offensive line. For players like Onwenu, continued adaptation and excellence in diverse roles will be crucial. “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 noted.
Onwenu’s journey from a sixth-round pick to a pivotal player with a multi-million dollar contract is a narrative of growth, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As he and his teammates continue to prepare for the upcoming season, the Patriots' strategy of leveraging versatility looks poised to create a robust and dynamic offensive line capable of meeting the challenges ahead.