In a significant move this March, the New England Patriots secured Mike Onwenu with a three-year, $57 million contract. Onwenu, initially selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a versatile asset for the Patriots, stepping into various roles along the offensive line.
Onwenu's Journey in the NFL
Onwenu's journey began when he entered the league as a right tackle, quickly cementing his role during his rookie season. In his second year, his adaptability became evident as he split duties between right and left tackle. This flexibility proved vital for the Patriots' offensive line, providing them with much-needed depth and reliability.
However, the 2022 season marked a shift for Onwenu, as the Patriots moved him to right guard for the majority of the year. By the season's end, he transitioned back to his familiar right tackle position, once again showcasing his ability to adapt to the needs of the team.
Offseason Adjustments and Team Dynamics
The offseason saw further adjustments with Onwenu resuming his role at right tackle during Organized Team Activities (OTAs). However, as mandatory minicamp unfolded, Onwenu shifted to right guard, a position he held throughout the first practice of training camp. This fluidity in positioning underscores the Patriots' strategy of exploring the best combinations for their offensive line.
During a pivotal practice session, Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle spot, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle position. Sidy Sow took reps at left guard, and David Andrews manned the center. The session also saw Jacoby Brissett taking reps, further highlighting the team's efforts to evaluate and optimize their lineup.
The Coaching Perspective
Head Coach Jerod Mayo emphasized this strategic approach, stating, “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.”
Mike Onwenu's Viewpoint
Onwenu himself seemed to embrace this fluid dynamic. “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. This sentiment reflects his readiness to step into any role required by the team.
Addressing the element of surprise and adjustment, Onwenu added, “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 adaptability has been a cornerstone of Onwenu's contribution to the team, ensuring he remains a valuable and versatile player on the Patriots' roster.
Looking forward, Onwenu underscored the importance of these early practices, stating, “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.”
Conclusion
As the New England Patriots go through their training camp and preseason drills, Mike Onwenu's flexibility and commitment will undoubtedly serve as key factors in shaping their offensive line. With an eye toward optimizing their lineup, both Onwenu and the Patriots are concentrating on putting together the best combination of players to ensure a robust and effective front for the upcoming season.