Michael Onwenu is now on of the elder statesman along the Patriots offensive line. Onwenu, a free agent this off-season re-signed with the Patriots on a three year, $57 million dollar contract. 

Entering his fifth season with the organization, Onwenu is one of the Patriots best players and arguably their best offensive lineman. He has played for four different offensive line coaches in his time with the team. Despite that, Onwenu maintains a positive attitude especially when it comes to the current state of the team.

When asked how things are going so far in training camp, Onwenu had a positive response specifically when it comes to the running game. 

“It is coming along good. I think over the last two days, the offense has been coming along. It is nice to be in full pads and working on our techniques.” 

Onwenu was projected to be the starting right tackle but because of injuries and the emergence of rookie Caedan Wallace at left tackle, Onwemu has been repping mostly at right guard through six practices. Free agent addition Chuks Okorafor has been repping at right tackle. For Onwenu, versatility is a key component for himself but he also wants to make sure his teammates are playing where they are comfortable.

“Chuks has played right tackle, in the past so I think it is more about him being more comfortable with what he’s doing.” 

The comment speaks to Onwenu  selflessness and his emergence as a leader. Being seen as a leader is something the humble Onwenu downplayed when I asked him about it. 

“I’m doing the same thing I have been doing. Just playing ball and bringing the guys along.”

Onwenu also talked about playing for new offensive line coach Scott Peters and how it is nice to have someone who can relate to what a player is dealing with. 

“It’s dope. I like him. As a player, he was a player. We have Coach Mayo, he is on the defensive side. It is nice having it on the offensive side and having a coach who relates.” 

The offensive line has been much maligned the past few seasons but the one constant has been Onwenu. He is the embodiment of commitment, versatility and hard work. 

Onwenu has become a mainstay of the organization because of the things he does but also his leadership and positive attitude.