In a decisive move this March, the New England Patriots inked a significant three-year, $57 million contract with offensive lineman Mike Onwenu. The former sixth-round pick from the 2020 NFL Draft has proven to be a versatile and indispensable asset to the Patriots' offensive line.
An Evolving Role
Onwenu's journey in the NFL began as a right tackle, where he spent his rookie season firmly establishing his position. In his second year, the Patriots utilized his flexibility, having him switch between right and left tackle. By 2022, Onwenu found himself primarily at right guard, a demonstration of his adaptability and skillset. As the season concluded, he was back at right tackle, a testament to his multi-position prowess.
During the Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed his role at right tackle. Yet, the shifting dynamics of the team saw him transition back to right guard during the mandatory minicamp. This position was maintained through the first practice of training camp, highlighting the Patriots' strategy of leveraging Onwenu’s versatility.
Team Dynamics and Strategic Moves
The Patriots' strategy involves keeping their offensive line adaptable. “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 Onwenu. His ability to switch positions as needed has been a critical asset for the Patriots.
In a notable training camp practice session, Calvin Anderson took over the right tackle position, while Chukwuma Okorafor secured the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow filled the left guard position with David Andrews anchoring the center. Meanwhile, quarterback Jacoby Brissett was seen taking reps, contributing to the dynamic practice routines.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo emphasized the importance of flexibility and seeking the optimal lineup. “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 said, underscoring the team's strategic approach.
Expectations and Adaptability
Onwenu, reflecting on his role changes, 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 roles on the offensive line has equipped him well for the fluid demands of the Patriots' lineup.
The need for adaptability will continue to shape the Patriots' offensive line decisions. “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 remarked, highlighting the ongoing evaluation and strategic alignment as the team progresses through training camp.
Conclusion
Mike Onwenu’s journey from a sixth-round draft pick to a cornerstone of the New England Patriots' offensive line showcases not only his individual talent but also the team's strategic acumen in maximizing player flexibility. As the Patriots continue through training camp and prepare for the upcoming season, Onwenu's role and the configuration of the offensive line will remain pivotal in their quest for success.