In a decisive move this March, the New England Patriots inked a three-year, $57 million contract with offensive lineman Mike Onwenu. Onwenu, initially picked in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has displayed remarkable versatility and reliability, earning this lucrative extension.
Onwenu began his NFL journey occupying the right tackle position during his rookie season. He quickly made a name for himself by solidifying his role in this spot. His sophomore year saw a shift in responsibilities, as he toggled between right and left tackle, further proving his adaptability on the line.
Mike Onwenu's Positional Evolution
The 2022 season marked another significant transition for Onwenu. The Patriots moved him to right guard for the bulk of the year, a position where he excelled. However, by season's end, he returned to the right tackle role. His adaptability prompted Head Coach Jerod Mayo to frequently reallocate his position, always aiming to strengthen the team’s offensive line.
During the organized team activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed duties at right tackle, showcasing his familiarity and comfort with the position. Yet, during mandatory minicamp, he transitioned back to right guard and maintained this role through the initial practice sessions of training camp. At the same practice, Calvin Anderson took over the right tackle responsibility, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot, Sidy Sow appeared at left guard, and David Andrews held center.
Inside the Training Camp
Training camps are quintessentially periods of experimentation and adjustment, a fact acknowledged by Onwenu himself. “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,” remarked Onwenu, illustrating the dynamic nature of NFL training camps.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed Onwenu's sentiments, emphasizing the priority of fielding the best 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.”
Onwenu, reflecting on his own journey and positional changes, 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.” His seasoned perspective illustrates the fluidity required of players at the professional level, especially when striving for optimal team performance.
The Importance of Versatility
With the advent of live football just around the corner, the significance of these practice sessions cannot be overstated. As Onwenu stated, “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.” This foresight underscores the strategic planning that goes into each position, ensuring every player is prepared for any scenario come game day.
The Patriots’ strategical depth in maintaining flexible offensive lines might very well be pivotal as they head into the new season. Players like Jacoby Brissett have also been involved in these intensive practice sessions, ensuring that every piece of the puzzle works seamlessly together.
Onwenu’s journey is a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence and adaptability, qualities that the New England Patriots have championed over the years. With his newly minted contract, Onwenu now anchors an offensive line poised for success, ready to shield their quarterback and pave the way for the Patriots' quest for glory.