In March, the New England Patriots made a significant move by securing offensive lineman Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract. This strategic decision underscores the team's commitment to fortifying their offensive line, ensuring stability and versatility in their front line.
Onwenu's Evolution within the Patriots
Mike Onwenu, a sixth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has been a pivotal figure for the Patriots since his entry into the league. Initially stepping in as a right tackle, Onwenu's rookie season saw him cement his role in this position, showcasing his promising talent and adaptability. However, his journey didn't stop there.
During his second year, Onwenu demonstrated exceptional flexibility by alternating between right and left tackle positions. This adaptability proved invaluable, allowing the Patriots to adjust their offensive strategies as needed. The 2022 season, however, ushered in another shift. Onwenu found himself predominantly playing as a right guard, a role he embraced until the season's end when he reverted to his original right tackle position.
Shifting Roles: A Strategic Move
The beginning of off-season activities (OTAs) saw Onwenu resuming his right tackle duties, only to pivot once again during mandatory minicamp to right guard. This strategic maneuver continued through the initial practice sessions of the training camp. Meanwhile, Calvin Anderson filled the crucial right tackle slot during a notable practice session, with Chukwuma Okorafor anchoring the left tackle spot, Sidy Sow at left guard, and David Andrews securing the center position. Even Jacoby Brissett was active with reps during these practice sessions.
During this period of frequent role-swapping, Onwenu commented on the fluid nature of the practice sessions, stating, "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.”
The Coach's Perspective
Head Coach Jerod Mayo offered insight into the team's strategy regarding their offensive line configuration. “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.”
This approach underscores a broader philosophy of flexibility and adaptability within the team, emphasizing the importance of having players who are multifaceted and can step into various roles as required.
Onwenu's Adaptability: A Valuable Asset
Onwenu himself reflected on the constant changes, acknowledging the surprises but also recounting his past experiences in different positions. “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.” His willingness to adapt and perform in multiple roles is a testament to his skillset and a significant asset to the team.
The ongoing training and practice sessions are crucial for determining the optimal lineup, as Onwenu highlighted, “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.”
As the New England Patriots continue to fine-tune their roster and strategies, Mike Onwenu's journey and development within the team serve as a microcosm of the broader adaptability and strategic planning that characterize professional football. With a keen focus on placing the best five players on the field, the Patriots are poised to navigate the demands of the upcoming season with a robust and flexible offensive line.