Mike Onwenu’s Journey with the New England Patriots: A Testament to Versatility and Adaptability
In a league where adaptability is often the hallmark of a successful player, Mike Onwenu's career with the New England Patriots stands as a testament to versatility and resilience. The Patriots secured the offensive lineman with a three-year, $57 million contract in March, a move that underscores his value to the team. Selected in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Onwenu’s journey from draft hopeful to indispensable asset has been marked by unwavering commitment and a readiness to embrace change.
Onwenu stepped into the NFL initially as a right tackle, quickly establishing himself in this role during his rookie season. His performance on the field was enough to cement his place on the roster, embodying the fierce determination that characterizes his gameplay. "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," said Onwenu, reflecting on the constant need for adaptation within the offensive line.
His second year saw him splitting duties between right and left tackle, a testament to his flexibility and skill. It wasn't just about filling gaps; Onwenu was executing plays with the precision and reliability that coaches covet. The 2022 season added another layer to his versatility when the Patriots moved him to right guard for the majority of the season, before finishing out the year back at right tackle. This constant shuffling could unsettle many players, but for Onwenu, it was just another aspect of the game. "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 remarked.
The 2023 offseason further demonstrated Onwenu’s adaptability. During Organized Team Activities (OTAs), he resumed his role at right tackle, a position he had become familiar with. However, the fluid nature of the Patriots' strategy meant that his position was once again up for grabs. At mandatory minicamp, Onwenu shifted to right guard, maintaining this position throughout the first practice of training camp. Such transitions, while challenging, are part of the Patriots' broader strategy to ensure the best possible lineup on the field.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo emphasized this approach, saying, "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 mindset is evident in how players like Onwenu are prepared to move across positions, ready to contribute wherever they are most needed.
During a notable practice session, Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle position, while Chukwuma Okorafor was anchoring the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow took charge at left guard with David Andrews at center, offering a glimpse into the possible configurations for the upcoming season. The sight of Jacoby Brissett taking reps during this session hints at the fluid and competitive nature of training camp, where every player vies for a place in the starting lineup.
For Onwenu, these practices are more than just preparation—they are opportunities to prove his worth and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the NFL. "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," he explained, underscoring the importance of these preseason activities in determining the best lineup.
Mike Onwenu's journey with the Patriots highlights not only his own flexibility and determination but also the team's strategic emphasis on putting together the most formidable offensive line possible. As the new season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this seasoned player will continue to rise to the challenges and support the team’s ambitions. The Patriots’ investment in Onwenu signifies their confidence in his ability to adapt, perform, and excel, no matter where he lines up on the field.