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Patriots Starting OL Explains Reasons for Limited Participation at OTAs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Griffin Goodwyn | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 3:30 PM ET

Versatility and durability have been staples of offensive lineman Mike Onwenu's five-year NFL career.

Onwenu has appeared at every offensive line position except center, and he has started at left guard, right guard, and right tackle in the professional ranks. The injury bug has stayed away from Onwenu, too, resulting in him missing just two games over the past three seasons.

The veteran offensive lineman was rewarded for these traits with a three-year, $57 million extension to his original rookie deal in 2024, locking him into the New England Patriots' front five rotation until the 2026 campaign. He is expected to serve as the team's starting right tackle once the regular season begins.

But Onwenu has participated in the Patriots' OTAs, which have been held at practice fields near Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, in a limited capacity thus far. On Monday, Onwenu shared why he has not been fully engaged in the team's offseason activities.

He offered a three-word response: "rehabbing my hand."

Onwenu originally signed a four-year, $3,497,476 rookie contract with the Patriots after the team selected him with the No. 182 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan, where he played right guard for three seasons and was twice named to the All-Big Ten Conference Third Team.

Onwenu's lone major professional honor was landing a spot on the Professional Football Writers Association's All-Rookie Team in 2020, which served as the culmination of his strong play at right guard, left guard, and right tackle.

Last season, Onwenu spent most of the season at right guard (12 starts, 712 snaps), but he also played at right tackle (five starts, 308 snaps). He finished the year as the team's most productive offensive lineman, according to Pro Football Focus, which gave him a 65.2 offensive grade.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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