Mike Onwenu’s Journey: From Late-Round Pick to Essential Asset
In March, the New England Patriots secured a cornerstone for their offensive line by inking Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract. This significant commitment underscores Onwenu’s evolution from a sixth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft to a key player for the Patriots.
Onwenu’s entry into the NFL was as unassuming as it was promising. Selected in the sixth round, he initially stepped into the league as a right tackle. During his rookie season, Onwenu spent his time solidifying his role at the position, showcasing his versatility and resilience. His performance did not go unnoticed, setting the stage for a dynamic career with the Patriots.
As the seasons progressed, so did Onwenu’s role on the field. In his second year, he adeptly split duties between right and left tackle, demonstrating his adaptability. By 2022, however, the Patriots decided to move Onwenu primarily to right guard for the majority of the season. Despite this transition, Onwenu’s versatility remained a focal point, and he found himself playing at right tackle by the end of the year.
As the Patriots entered the offseason training activities (OTAs) and mandatory minicamp, Onwenu's adaptability continued to shine. During the OTAs, he resumed his role at right tackle, but his position shifted once again during mandatory minicamp, where he was positioned at right guard. He held this spot throughout the first practice of training camp, highlighting the team’s strategy of flexibility among their offensive linemen. Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle position during a notable practice session, while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow took up the left guard position, and David Andrews was at center, forming a new look for the Patriots' offensive line.
Onwenu’s approach to these continual changes exemplifies his professional demeanor. “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. This mindset is a testament to his commitment and readiness to contribute wherever needed.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo echoed Onwenu’s sentiments regarding the fluidity of the offensive line positions. “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 pragmatic and adaptable approach not only highlights the Patriots' strategic flexibility but also their philosophy of maximizing player strengths to maintain a competitive edge. For Onwenu, these position shifts are just part of his football journey, one that began in high school and saw him transition seamlessly across various offensive line roles.
On his varied positions, Onwenu shared, “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 reflection on past experiences emphasizes how his history of versatility has prepared him for the demands of the NFL.
As training camp progresses, the competition among the offensive line will only intensify. Onwenu recognizes the importance of these early stages in determining the final lineup. “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’s journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, adaptability, and excellence. From a late-round draft pick to a linchpin of the Patriots’ offensive line, his story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the relentless pursuit of growth and the importance of versatility in professional sports.