In a significant roster move this March, the New England Patriots secured offensive lineman Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract. This decisive action underscores the value the team places on Onwenu, a player who has demonstrated remarkable versatility and resilience since being selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
A Versatile Lineman
Onwenu entered the NFL as a right tackle, where he quickly made his mark during his rookie season. His ability to adapt and excel at different positions on the offensive line has been a vital asset for the Patriots. In his second year, Onwenu balanced his duties between right and left tackle, showing his adaptability and broad skill set.
The 2022 season saw further adjustments as the Patriots transitioned Onwenu to right guard for most of the season, only to have him return to right tackle by the year's end. His flexibility didn’t stop there; during the offseason training activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed his role at right tackle before being shifted back to right guard during mandatory minicamp, where he held this position throughout the first practice of training camp.
Strategic Shifts and Team Dynamics
During this notable practice session, Calvin Anderson took over the right tackle position while Chukwuma Okorafor held down the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow was positioned at left guard, and David Andrews filled the center position. This lineup indicates the Patriots' strategy of assessing and utilizing their best options leading into the season.
The dynamic nature of the Patriots' offensive line arrangement speaks to the team’s philosophy. "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," explained Mike Onwenu, reflecting on his experience.
Coaching Perspectives
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of placing the best five players on the field, regardless of their specific roles. "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," said Mayo.
This approach fosters a culture of flexibility and readiness among the players, which is crucial as the team prepares for the rigorous demands of the season. Mike Onwenu, who has navigated various roles on the line, shared his thoughts on the fluidity of his position. "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 commented.
Looking Ahead
As the team progresses through training camp and adjusts to live football scenarios, the final composition of the offensive line will take shape. "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," noted Onwenu, highlighting the ongoing process of refinement and adjustment.
With Mike Onwenu's flexibility and the strategic foresight of the Patriots' coaching staff, the team is well-positioned to maximize their offensive line potential for the coming season.