In a significant move this March, the New England Patriots secured Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract, signaling their confidence in his versatility and proficiency on the offensive line. Onwenu, initially drafted in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has proven to be a key component in the Patriots' offensive schemes.
An Evolving Role
Entering the NFL as a right tackle, Onwenu immediately began building his presence on the field. His rookie season saw him solidify this role, showcasing his adaptability and skill. However, his second year in the league introduced new responsibilities as he split his duties between right and left tackle, demonstrating his capability to manage multiple positions across the offensive line. By the time 2022 rolled around, Onwenu was predominantly positioned at right guard, yet he concluded the season once again at right tackle.
Offseason Adjustments
This offseason brought more shifts in Onwenu's positioning. During OTAs, he resumed his role at right tackle. Yet, as mandatory minicamp began, he transitioned to right guard and retained that spot during the first practice of training camp. The flexibility in Onwenu's role underscores the Patriots' strategy to optimize their offensive lineup continually, by placing their best players in the most effective positions. Calvin Anderson and Chukwuma Okorafor notably occupied the tackle positions during a significant practice session, with Anderson at right tackle and Okorafor anchoring the left tackle spot. Among this shuffle, Sidy Sow held the left guard position, while David Andrews remained steady at center.
Strategic Insights
In reflecting on the changes and what they mean for the team's strategy, Onwenu remarked, “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's pragmatic approach and understanding of the necessity for flexibility are mirrored by Head Coach Jerod Mayo's philosophy. Mayo emphasized the importance of adaptability among his players, explaining, “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 also reflected on the varied roles he has assumed throughout his career, stating, “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.” This versatility not only illustrates Onwenu's adaptability but also his considerable value to the team.
Looking Ahead
As the Patriots edge closer to the new season, the importance of these strategic movements during practices becomes increasingly clear. “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 pointed out, emphasizing the critical nature of these preparations.
The Patriots' maneuvers during the offseason—shuffling their offensive line configurations and committing to Onwenu with a lucrative contract—illustrate their ongoing efforts to build a robust and adaptable team. These developments highlight Mike Onwenu's pivotal role and the strategic foresight of the coaching staff as they prepare for the rigors of the upcoming season.