Onwenu's Versatility Anchors Patriots' Offensive Line
In March, the New England Patriots made a strategic move by securing Mike Onwenu with a three-year, $57 million contract. This decision underscores the team's commitment to strengthening its offensive line, a vital component for any successful NFL franchise. Onwenu's adaptability has made him an indispensable asset since he was selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Onwenu entered the league as a right tackle and spent his rookie season cementing his role at this position. His performance demonstrated his potential as a key player for the Patriots. However, his journey through the NFL has been marked by a notable versatility, juggling roles across the offensive line.
Throughout his second year, Onwenu found himself splitting duties between right and left tackle. This adaptability proved beneficial for the Patriots, allowing them to reconfigure their offensive line as necessary. In 2022, Onwenu primarily played right guard but shifted back to right tackle by the end of the season, once again showcasing his flexibility and skill across multiple positions.
During Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed his role at right tackle, but the team's mandatory minicamp saw him shifting back to right guard. This switch continued into the first practice of the training camp, demonstrating the coaching staff's strategy of maneuvering players to fit the best possible configuration. Head Coach Jerod Mayo highlighted this approach: “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 himself understands the importance of this strategy and the trial and error that comes with finding the ideal line-up. Reflecting on his experience, he said, “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.”
During a notable practice session, the Patriots tested various line-ups, with Calvin Anderson occupying the right tackle position, Chukwuma Okorafor anchoring the left tackle spot, Sidy Sow at left guard, and David Andrews at center. This experimental approach is aimed at determining the most effective configuration in preparation for the upcoming season. Onwenu's response to these shifts emphasizes his dedication to the team's overall success: “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.”
The need for a cohesive and strong offensive line cannot be understated as the Patriots gear up for a highly competitive season. Onwenu recognizes the importance of preseason practices and trials: “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.”
The exhaustive process of determining the best line configuration will likely continue through training camp and into the preseason games. The fluidity with which the Patriots are willing to experiment speaks volumes about their commitment to optimizing performance. The inclusion of quarterback Jacoby Brissett in practice sessions further indicates their drive to integrate all facets of their offense effectively.
Mike Onwenu's reliability and versatility have become keystones for the Patriots' offensive line reconstruction. The strategic shifts, constant evaluations, and experimental line-ups during training will be crucial as the Patriots seek to field the most robust and dynamic offensive line possible. Onwenu's ability to play multiple positions proficiently ensures that he will be a central figure in this evolving narrative.