In March, the New England Patriots made a significant move by securing Mike Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million contract. This decisive action underscores the team's confidence in Onwenu, a player who has demonstrated versatility and resilience since his selection in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Onwenu's Journey in the NFL
Onwenu entered the league as a right tackle, quickly establishing himself during his rookie season. His adaptability became more apparent in his second year, where he managed to split duties between the right and left tackle positions. This flexibility proved crucial as the Patriots navigated the challenges of maintaining a robust offensive line.
The 2022 season marked another shift in Onwenu's role. The Patriots moved him to right guard, a position he held for the majority of the season, providing stability and showcasing his talent in the interior line. By season's end, Onwenu found himself back at right tackle, further emphasizing his ability to adapt based on the team's needs.
Training and Strategic Adjustments
As the team entered Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Onwenu resumed his role at right tackle. However, during the mandatory minicamp, the coaching staff decided to shift him back to right guard, where he continued to practice during the initial days of training camp. This flexibility in positioning highlights a strategic depth that could be advantageous as the season progresses.
“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, underscoring the importance of adaptability and readiness in multiple roles.
Insights from the Practice Field
During a notable practice session, Calvin Anderson occupied the right tackle position while Chukwuma Okorafor anchored the left tackle spot. Sidy Sow was positioned at left guard and David Andrews took his usual place at center. This lineup shuffle demonstrated the coaching staff's commitment to finding the optimal combination for the offensive line.
Jacoby Brissett also featured in the same practice session, taking reps and contributing to what appears to be a highly competitive training environment.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo articulated the team's 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.”
Embracing Versatility
Onwenu himself expressed his readiness for these shifts, “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 perspective reveals a professional willing to embrace changes and contribute wherever needed.
The Patriots' strategy during this training period seemed focused on not just assessing individual capabilities but also determining the best collective configuration. Onwenu’s willingness to move between positions is a significant asset for the team’s offensive strategy, providing depth and adaptability that is crucial for success in the NFL.
Mike Onwenu encapsulated the broader team sentiment regarding these changes, “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.” This adaptability and forward-thinking approach could be pivotal as the Patriots prepare for the upcoming season.
The road ahead for Onwenu and the New England Patriots will undoubtedly be marked by strategic adjustments and positional fluidity. However, with Onwenu's versatility and the coaching staff's clear commitment to optimizing their lineup, the team is poised to tackle the challenges of the new season head-on.