In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, adaptability is a prized attribute, and few embody this quality better than Mike Onwenu of the New England Patriots. In March, the Patriots recognized his versatility and secured him with a three-year, $57 million contract, cementing his place within the team.
Onwenu, a sixth-round pick from the 2020 NFL Draft, has consistently demonstrated his value through his ability to adapt to various positions along the offensive line. Initially brought on as a right tackle, Onwenu spent his rookie season defining and strengthening his role at that position. His performance was notable, showcasing his potential to be a cornerstone of the Patriots' offensive line.
A Versatile Weapon on the Line
In his second year, Onwenu's role began to diversify. He split his responsibilities between right and left tackle, embracing the challenges of playing across different spots on the line. By 2022, the Patriots decided to leverage his flexibility even further, shifting him primarily to right guard for much of the season. However, he returned to right tackle by the season's end, highlighting his willingness and capability to adapt as needed.
"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," Onwenu explained, shedding light on the Patriots' strategy of rotating linemen to find the optimal combination.
Training Camp Dynamics
The 2023 offseason has been no different for Onwenu. During OTAs, he resumed his responsibilities at right tackle, but come mandatory minicamp, he found himself back at right guard, a position he maintained through the first practice of training camp. This fluidity speaks volumes about the Patriots' tactical approach and Onwenu's crucial role within it.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team's commitment to selecting the best five-man line for each game. “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,” Mayo stated, underscoring the fluid nature of line assignments.
A Practice of Constant Adjustment
During a notable practice session, Calvin Anderson took up the right tackle position, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow was seen at left guard, with David Andrews commanding the center, and quarterback Jacoby Brissett stepping in during the session. This line-up is a testament to the Patriots' depth and strategic shifting of players to optimize performance.
Reflecting on his own journey, Onwenu acknowledged the unpredictability and necessity of his shifting roles. “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,” Onwenu said, highlighting his multifaceted skill set that has become a crucial asset for the team.
As the Patriots move deeper into the preseason, the dynamic of the offensive line will undoubtedly continue to evolve. “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 remarked, emphasizing the importance of these practice sessions in shaping the final roster and ensuring each position is optimized for success.
Mike Onwenu's journey and adaptability personify the spirit of the New England Patriots: a team focused on leveraging its most versatile players to secure victories. As Onwenu continues to switch roles and meet the demands of his coaching staff, he remains a pivotal fixture in the ongoing pursuit of supremacy on the football field.