In a significant move this past March, the New England Patriots secured offensive lineman Mike Onwenu with a robust three-year, $57 million contract. This demonstrates the team's commitment to building a versatile and resilient offensive line, a crucial aspect for any successful NFL team.
Onwenu's journey to this lucrative contract began when he was selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Initially stepping into the league as a right tackle, Onwenu quickly made his presence felt. He spent his rookie season cementing his role at right tackle, showcasing both his skill and adaptability.
A Position of Versatility
Onwenu's second year in the league saw him splitting duties between right and left tackle, further underlining his versatility. This capacity to play multiple positions on the offensive line has proven invaluable to the Patriots, especially in times of injury or tactical shifts.
In 2022, the Patriots made a strategic decision to move Onwenu to right guard for the majority of the season. However, by the end of the year, he found himself back at right tackle. This constant shuffling highlights Onwenu's adaptability and readiness to meet the team's needs wherever he is placed.
His adaptability was evident during organized team activities (OTAs), where Onwenu resumed his role at right tackle. Yet, during mandatory minicamp, he shifted back to right guard and maintained this position throughout the first practice of training camp. The Patriots' coaching staff, led by respected figures such as Head Coach Jerod Mayo, seems intent on finding the best fit for each player to optimize the team's performance.
Strategic Shifts in the Offensive Line
In these practice sessions, Calvin Anderson took on the right tackle position, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Further adding to the dynamic configuration were players like Sidy Sow at left guard and David Andrews at center. The varied lineup indicates a strategy focused on flexibility and finding the optimal combination of players.
“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,” said Onwenu, reflecting on the shifting dynamics during the practices.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed these sentiments, stating, “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.”
A Player of Adaptability
Onwenu’s ability to switch positions without a drop in performance is a testament to his skill and mental resilience. “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 admitted, offering insights into his flexibility on the field.
The importance of these transitions and the early practice setups cannot be overstated. “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 explained.
As the 2023 season approaches, the Patriots are clearly prioritizing versatility and strategic positioning among their offensive linemen. Mike Onwenu's adaptability and proficiency at multiple positions make him a linchpin in this strategy, underscoring the rationale behind his substantial contract extension. With a seasoned coaching staff and a roster brimming with flexible talent, the Patriots aim to build a formidable and adaptable offensive line to navigate the rigors of the NFL season.