The New England Patriots have made a significant move to bolster their offensive line by securing Mike Onwenu with a three-year, $57 million contract this March. This investment underscores the team’s confidence in Onwenu's versatility and skill, developed since he was selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Onwenu began his NFL career as a right tackle, where he made an immediate impact during his rookie season. His performance on the offensive line helped solidify his role early on. In his second year, Onwenu demonstrated his adaptability by splitting his duties between right and left tackle, showcasing his ability to perform under varied circumstances.
In 2022, the Patriots made a strategic decision to move Onwenu to right guard, a position he filled for the majority of the season. However, by the end of the year, he found himself back at right tackle, proving his flexibility once again. During offseason activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed his role at right tackle, but by mandatory minicamp, he had shifted back to right guard and maintained this position throughout the first practice of training camp.
As the Patriots work to optimize their offensive line, other key players have also been positioned strategically during practice sessions. Calvin Anderson was seen occupying the right tackle position, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow played at left guard, with David Andrews holding steady at center. Additionally, Jacoby Brissett took reps during these sessions, further indicating the team's efforts to fine-tune their lineup.
Mike Onwenu's adaptability and willingness to play various positions on the line have not gone unnoticed. Reflecting on the importance of versatility during team practices, Onwenu commented, “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.” His mindset aligns with the coaching staff’s goal of identifying the best combination of players for the offensive line.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of flexibility within the line-up. “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’s approach indicates a strategic and pragmatic view of the team’s roster.
Onwenu himself remains unfazed by the shifts and changes. “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 calm and collected attitude towards his role transitions demonstrate his maturity and readiness to contribute wherever needed.
As the preseason progresses, the Patriots will continue to assess and refine their offensive line-up. “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,” Onwenu stated. His acknowledgment of the ongoing evaluation process highlights the dynamic nature of team preparations and the critical need for cohesion and precision on the field.
The Patriots’ proactive approach, combined with Onwenu's flexibility and the strategic placements of their other linemen, sets a solid foundation for the upcoming season. With high expectations and a robust plan in place, the team aims to leverage their restructured offensive line to drive performance and achieve success on the gridiron.