Mike Onwenu didn't hide the fact that he wanted to stay with the New England Patriots after his rookie deal ended following the 2023 season.
And his wish came true, with the Patriots signing him to a three-year, $57 million deal with $38 million guaranteed. What made this all the more interesting was Onwenu got this deal while representing himself, having fired his agents soon before the legal tampering period for free agency began.
Onwenu took the time to speak with reporters for the first time since inking his big deal at Gillette Stadium on Thursday, and he opened up about the entire process.
“I love it. The process went good,” Onwenu said. “I’m happy to be back here, so that’s all that matters.”
While there were other teams that were rumored to be interested in the versatile offensive lineman, Onwenu said that all signs pointed to him returning to New England.
“I think it was always trending in the direction that I would be back,” Onwenu said. “Me and the Patriots, we always kept the communication line open and we were talking about everything. So it was a good time.”
So why did he want to return so badly?
“Really just the opportunity to build. Definitely been a good four years for me,” Onwenu added. “(Now) we have our opportunity to build and start something new, and I think that’s really what’s important. We all see our opportunity and we’re going to take that opportunity.”
And on top of him wanting to return, the Patriots emphasized that re-signing Onwenu was a priority. So it worked out for both sides.
After being drafted in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, he started his rookie season as a tackle, but moved to guard for the 2021 and 2022 season. However, this year, they moved him back to tackle midseason and his performance was enough to allow him to keep the job.
With all the new money, Onwenu made sure those close to him were taken care of. But he did make one personal purchase to celebrate.
“I took care of my people and that’s about it right now,” Onwenu said. “My only purchase I bought was a Rolex. That’s all I wanted right now.”
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