Michael

Onwenu

The deal includes $38 million guaranteed. Lauded for his versatility, Onwenu spent all of 2022 at right guard before beginning last year at guard and kicking over to tackle for his final 11 appearances. He has always earned strong blocking grades no matter the position but seems likely to remain at tackle for 2024.

Onwenu had surgery to correct a lingering 2022 issue. He is missing OTAs and will be questionable for the start of training camp. The No. 182 overall pick of the 2020 Draft, Onwenu has started 41 games over the past three seasons, developing into one of the league’s better guards. At least as of now, there is no indication Onwenu is in doubt for Week 1.

The same is true for RT Trent Brown (calf). That is far from ideal with LT Isaiah Wynn and LG Mike Onwenu both on the COVID-19 list. It’s unclear if either Wynn or Onwenu will be cleared in time, and neither Brown nor Mason appears close to a return. Even in a dream spot with the horrid Texans, missing four starting linemen could spell disaster for Mac Jones and the Patriots’ running game. Stay tuned.

Onwenu (6’3/344) was a three-year starting right guard at Michigan who earned back-to-back third-team All-Big Ten honors as a junior and senior. His power is unquestioned, but his weight has fluctuated dramatically in college and is a concern for his NFL future. He chose not to participate at the Combine after checking in at 344 pounds. When he’s at the correct weight, he shows quality movement skills and graded well as a pass protector. Onwenu has the physical traits and on-field production of a potential starter in a power scheme, but he needs time to develop and workshop his figure. Don’t we all.