In the bustling world of professional football, the New England Patriots have made a noteworthy move by securing Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract in March. This commitment underscores the team's confidence in Onwenu, who has demonstrated versatility and reliability since being selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
A Journey of Versatility
Onwenu's journey in the NFL has been a testament to adaptability and skill. He initially entered the league as a right tackle, where he spent his rookie season cementing his role. His performance in that position showcased his potential and set the stage for future developments.
In his second year, Onwenu's flexibility became a valuable asset for the Patriots as he split duties between right and left tackle. The following year, the 2022 season, saw another shift in his career trajectory. The Patriots moved him to right guard for the majority of the season, a position he embraced with the same determination and proficiency he had displayed at tackle. By the end of 2022, Onwenu once again found himself at right tackle, showing his capability to adapt and excel irrespective of the slot he was placed in.
Shifting Roles in 2023
As the 2023 season approached, Onwenu's role continued to evolve. During the Organized Team Activities (OTAs), he resumed his position at right tackle. However, the fluidity of his placement was evident when, during mandatory minicamp, he shifted back to right guard and held this position throughout the first practice of training camp.
This rotational strategy aligns with the Patriots' broader offensive line philosophy. As Onwenu himself noted, “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.”
Coaching Insights
Head Coach Jerod Mayo's approach further affirms this strategic versatility. Mayo has been clear about the importance of putting the best players on the field, regardless of their traditional roles. “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.”
Impact on Practice Sessions
During a notable practice session, the shifting roles within the Patriots' offensive line were on full display. Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle position, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Simultaneously, Sidy Sow played at left guard, David Andrews was at center, and Jacoby Brissett took reps, contributing to a dynamic practice atmosphere. Onwenu's relatively unexpected shifts are not new territory for him. “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 explained.
Future Prospects
Looking forward, the 2023 season promises to be one where the Patriots continue to leverage Onwenu's adaptability to fortify their offensive line. His experience in multiple positions offers the team a unique tactical advantage. As Onwenu aptly put it, “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's journey from a sixth-round draft pick to a key fixture in the Patriots' roster reflects not only his personal dedication but also the strategic mind of the coaching staff. His ability to fluidly switch roles while maintaining high performance is an asset that will undoubtedly play a critical role in the team's success this season.