In March this year, the New England Patriots made a significant move to solidify their offensive line by signing Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million extension. This decision underscores Onwenu's critical role in the Patriots' offensive strategy, a role that has evolved significantly since he was picked in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
An Evolving Role
Onwenu began his professional career as a right tackle, gaining valuable experience and proving his mettle during his rookie season. The young offensive lineman spent that entire year cementing his role at the right tackle position. By his second year, he showcased his versatility, splitting his duties between right and left tackle, revealing a level of adaptability that is rare even among seasoned players.
The frequent positional changes continued into the 2022 season when the Patriots moved Onwenu to right guard for much of the year. Despite this shift, he returned to his original right tackle spot by the end of the season. The off-season practice sessions, like the OTAs, saw him back at right tackle once again, demonstrating his reliability and flexibility.
Training Camp Adjustments
During the mandatory minicamp, Onwenu was asked to shift back to right guard, a move he embraced without complaint. He held this position throughout the first practice of training camp, illustrating his team-first mentality. Calvin Anderson took over the right tackle position during one notable practice session, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot, with Sidy Sow at left guard and David Andrews at center. Jacoby Brissett, the quarterback, took reps during these practice sessions, indicating that the team is trying various combinations to find the best possible fit.
Onwenu understands the fluid nature of these adjustments. “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 said, pointing out the importance of flexibility and readiness across the line.
Coaching Perspective
The Patriots' coaching staff, led by Head Coach Jerod Mayo, emphasizes putting the best five players on the field, regardless of their primary positions. “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 explained.
For Onwenu, these positional transitions are not unfamiliar territory. “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,” he remarked, showing his adaptability and willingness to contribute wherever needed.
Looking Forward
As the New England Patriots gear up for the upcoming season, the coaching staff and players are focused on optimizing their 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,” Onwenu stated, underscoring the ongoing evaluation process.
Onwenu's journey from a sixth-round draft pick to a multi-million-dollar contract player encapsulates the blend of talent, hard work, and adaptability that is necessary in the NFL. His story is not just one of individual perseverance but also a testament to the strategic acumen of the Patriots as they continue to build a robust and flexible offensive line. As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on how these adjustments pan out, but one thing is clear: Onwenu will be a pivotal piece of that puzzle, no matter where he lines up on the field.