Mike Onwenu's Versatility Anchors Patriots' Offensive Line
In March, the New England Patriots made a decisive move to secure their offensive line's future by signing Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract. This significant investment reflects the team's confidence in Onwenu, who has demonstrated remarkable versatility since being selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Onwenu initially stepped into the league as a right tackle, a position where he quickly cemented his role during his rookie season. His performance solidified his standing as a reliable presence on the offensive line. However, Onwenu's adaptability became even more apparent in his second year, when he split his duties between right and left tackle, showcasing his ability to seamlessly transition across the line.
The 2022 season saw another shift in Onwenu's responsibilities. The Patriots moved him to right guard for the majority of the season, only for him to return to the right tackle position by the end of the year. His seamless transitions did not go unnoticed and exemplified his commitment and flexibility—a factor critical to the Patriots' evolving strategy.
During the recent Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed his role at right tackle. However, this was short-lived, as he shifted back to right guard during the mandatory minicamp, holding this position throughout the first practice of training camp. This continual movement across positions underscores a strategic approach by the coaching staff to identify the optimal configuration for their offensive 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 explained.
The Patriots' coaching staff, led by Head Coach Jerod Mayo, echoes this sentiment of flexibility and adaptability. “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,” Mayo stated, highlighting the team's focus on efficiency and effectiveness over rigid positional adherence.
Such adaptability is not new to Onwenu. Reflecting on his career, he shared, “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.” His experience across multiple positions has undoubtedly contributed to his current role as a linchpin in the Patriots' strategy.
Onwenu's importance is further emphasized during practice sessions, where different line configurations are tested. For instance, Calvin Anderson has occupied the right tackle position in notable practice sessions, while Chukwuma Okorafor has anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow has taken up the left guard position with David Andrews at center, creating a dynamic environment where the best fit for each role is continually assessed.
Onwenu acknowledges the significance of these practices in determining the optimal lineup. “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. This iterative process is crucial as the team seeks to solidify its offensive line ahead of the new season.
As the Patriots prepare for the upcoming season, the adaptability and versatility of players like Mike Onwenu will be vital. His ability to effortlessly switch roles not only fortifies the offensive line but also exemplifies the Patriots' strategic maneuvering, aiming to field the most effective unit possible. With Onwenu secured for the next three years, the Patriots are poised to build upon this adaptable approach, striving for excellence on the field.