In March, the New England Patriots secured a crucial piece of their offensive line by retaining Mike Onwenu with a three-year, $57 million contract. A testament to his versatility, Onwenu has evolved impressively since he was selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Onwenu entered the NFL as a right tackle, a position where he immediately began to solidify his presence during his rookie season. His skill set enabled him to handle the rigors of the trenches, and he quickly became a reliable component of the Patriots' offensive line.
Transitioning Roles
As he progressed into his second year, Onwenu's flexibility became even more apparent. He split his duties between right and left tackle, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to the team's needs. The 2022 season witnessed yet another shift in his role. The Patriots moved him primarily to right guard, though by the season's end, he resumed his duties at right tackle.
During offseason training activities (OTAs) and mandatory minicamp, Onwenu once again demonstrated his value as the Patriots tinkered with their lineup. Initially resuming his role at right tackle during OTAs, he then shifted back to right guard during mandatory minicamp and held that position throughout the first practice of training camp.
Strategic Experimentation
The uncertainty surrounding Onwenu's permanent position seems to be a strategic move by the Patriots' coaching staff. They aim to determine the best combination for their offensive line, ensuring that their most talented players are on the field. Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle position during a notable practice session, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow was slotted at left guard, David Andrews took center, and Jacoby Brissett participated in reps during the session.
Mike Onwenu elaborated on the team's strategy: “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.” This approach underlines the Patriots' commitment to flexibility and adaptability within their squad.
Coaching Philosophy
Head Coach Jerod Mayo emphasized this philosophy further: “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 echoed this sentiment, sharing his perspective on the transitions he has experienced: “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 statement encapsulates Onwenu's team-first mindset and his readiness to meet the team's needs, regardless of his position on the field.
Looking Ahead
As the Patriots move through the preseason, their focus remains on identifying the optimal configuration for their offensive line. Onwenu reflected on the importance of this period: “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.”
With Onwenu's versatility and the Patriots' strategic adjustments, the team aims to build an offensive line that can protect their quarterback and spearhead their offensive efforts in the upcoming season. The decisions made in these early sessions will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the team's success on the field.