Onwenu's Versatility Proves Crucial for Patriots
In March of this year, the New England Patriots made a significant commitment to Mike Onwenu, signing the versatile lineman to a three-year, $57 million contract. As he enters his fourth season in the NFL, the Patriots evident trust in Onwenu underscores his critical role on their offensive line.
Mike Onwenu, a product of the 2020 NFL Draft's sixth round, has consistently demonstrated his value on the field. Originally stepping into the league as a right tackle, Onwenu solidified his position during his rookie season. His capability and adaptability, however, have become more apparent over the subsequent seasons.
Entering his second year, Onwenu began to showcase his flexibility by splitting his responsibilities between right and left tackle. This dual-role experience was an early indication of what would become a hallmark of his career: the ability to effectively serve in multiple offensive line positions.
In 2022, the Patriots strategized another shift for Onwenu, moving him primarily to right guard. He embraced this new role and ended the season by resuming duties at right tackle. This transition back and forth between positions highlights Onwenu's adaptability and underscores his importance in fortifying the Patriots' offensive line.
Even during the off-season training activities (OTAs), Onwenu's adaptability was on full display. He resumed his role at right tackle, only to shift back to right guard during the mandatory minicamp where he continued to hold this position throughout the early days of training camp.
Onwenu's flexibility appeared to be a strategic cornerstone for the Patriots as they sought the best lineup. As Onwenu himself put it, “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.”
The emphasis on finding the optimal configuration for the offensive line was echoed by Head Coach Jerod Mayo who expressed the team's strategic approach: “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 flexibility and readiness to adapt positions aren't new to Onwenu, who remains prepared for any role required of him. Reflecting on his past positions, Onwenu 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.”
As the Patriots continue to shape their lineup through training camp, Onwenu's role remains pivotal. The process of determining the best fit for each player on the offensive line is seen as essential. Onwenu acknowledged this importance, adding, “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.”
During a notable practice session, changes in positions were observed as Calvin Anderson took over right tackle duties while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow played at left guard, and David Andrews was at center, showcasing that the Patriots are still experimenting with configurations.
As the Patriots advance towards the new season, the team appears committed to fielding the best possible lineup, leveraging Onwenu's versatility as a cornerstone of their strategy. Whether at right guard or right tackle, Onwenu's adaptability and experience continue to bolster the Patriots' offensive line, providing both stability and flexibility required for the team's success.