In an offseason move filled with strategic foresight, the New England Patriots secured offensive lineman Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract in March. This investment highlights the organization’s confidence in Onwenu’s flexibility and performance on the field.
Onwenu, picked in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has been an integral part of the Patriots’ offensive line. Initially stepping into the league as a right tackle, Onwenu’s rookie season saw him establish a firm foothold in the position. His versatility was further underscored during his sophomore season, where he adeptly handled responsibilities at both right and left tackle.
Positional Shifts and Flexibility
The 2022 season brought another shift for Onwenu, as he was moved to right guard for the majority of the year. This transition showcased his ability to adapt and perform under different circumstances, a trait highly valued by the Patriots’ coaching staff. As the season progressed, Onwenu found himself back at right tackle, underlining his role as a critical and flexible component of the line.
Offseason activities continued to test and showcase this flexibility. During Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed his duties at right tackle, a role familiar to him from his early NFL days. However, in mandatory minicamp and the initial phases of training camp, he transitioned back to right guard, holding that position through the early drills.
Coaching Perspectives and Team Dynamics
Patriots Head Coach Jerod Mayo underscored the team’s strategy and the importance of versatility on the offensive line. “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.
Mike Onwenu reflected on the positional changes with a sense of readiness and acceptance. “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 explained.
During a notable practice session, the Patriots’ offensive line alignment saw Calvin Anderson taking up the right tackle spot, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Additionally, Sidy Sow played at left guard, David Andrews held down the center, and Jacoby Brissett took reps as quarterback, emphasizing the fluid nature of position assignments during camp.
Adapting to Change
Onwenu has taken these changes in stride, highlighting his adaptability. “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,” Onwenu remarked. His experience across various positions underscores his value to the team and ability to fill gaps as needed.
Preparation and Optimism
The focus on practice and adaptability is crucial, especially as the team prepares for the upcoming season. “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 noted, pointing to the dynamic process of building a cohesive and effective offensive line unit.
As the Patriots continue their preparations, the integration of strategic signings and the flexibility of players like Mike Onwenu will be pivotal. His ability to switch seamlessly between positions not only fortifies the line but also offers the coaching staff the versatility to make tactical decisions that could define their campaign.