Following speculation regarding the potential implementation of the franchise tag, Mike Onwenu has now become an unrestricted free agent. The New England Patriots have opted to utilize the transition tag on Kyle Dugger, thereby allowing Onwenu a straightforward route to explore opportunities in the open market. This strategic move by the Patriots is notable, given their evident requirement for reinforcement along the offensive line.
Since his entry into the league during the 2020 NFL Draft, Onwenu has demonstrated his prowess as a dependable tackle and exceptional guard. Adapting seamlessly to various positions along the offensive line, the former Michigan player has emerged as one of the few consistently reliable figures in the Patriots’ post-Brady era.
While there remains a possibility that the Patriots may opt to re-sign Mike Onwenu as a free agent, the likelihood appears slim. Despite having ample resources, with over $100 million available in free agency, the Patriots seem disinclined to retain their homegrown talent. Reports stretching back to January have suggested Onwenu’s departure from New England, and these reports now seem to be materializing.
Mike Onwenu Likely to Leave Patriots As A Free Agent
Only time will reveal whether the Patriots’ decision to let Mike Onwenu depart as a free agent proves to be wise. New England has a reputation for allowing their players to walk, and recent outcomes have been varied. While they made a savvy move in letting J.C. Jackson secure a lucrative deal with the Chargers, they arguably erred in effectively favoring Juju Smith-Schuster over Jakobi Meyers.
One thing beyond dispute is that Onwenu is primed for a significant payday. Spotrac forecasts that the former Michigan standout could command a four-year, $54.5 million contract, a projection that seems justified. Considering his age, versatility, and overall performance, there’s a compelling argument that Mike Onwenu ranks as the premier offensive lineman in this year’s free agent pool. With the demand for starting-caliber offensive linemen surpassing the available supply, whether at guard or tackle, Onwenu is poised to secure a lucrative contract.
Best Team Fits
Kansas City Chiefs
Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans struggled with the weakest offensive line in the league last season by a significant margin. Despite Will Levis’s efforts, it’s challenging for any young quarterback to thrive under such inadequate blocking. With an abundance of cap space totaling over $80.6 million, the Titans are well-positioned to secure Mike Onwenu in free agency while also adding other starting-caliber players to bolster their roster. Levis deserves another opportunity to lead the team from under center, and acquiring Onwenu could serve as the initial move towards transforming the second-round pick into a bona fide franchise quarterback.
Los Angeles Chargers
Rashawn Slater stands out as one of the premier tackles in the league, yet the remaining offensive line positions could benefit from reinforcement. While Mike Onwenu excels more at guard than tackle, his versatility allows him to perform admirably at both positions. Considering the greater value typically attributed to the tackle position, the Los Angeles team could opt to retain Onwenu there to provide protection for Justin Herbert. Alternatively, they could deploy him on the interior to enhance run blocking, thereby benefiting whoever assumes the role of primary ball carrier in the upcoming season.
Carolina Panthers
Ikem Ekwonu’s potential as the Panthers’ future left tackle remains uncertain. While the first-round pick has displayed glimpses of promise, his performance has lacked consistency. Starting the season with Ekwonu protecting Bryce Young’s blindside seems warranted, but the Panthers should have a contingency plan in place. If they secure Mike Onwenu as a free agent, he could promptly bolster the guard position, which currently ranks among the NFL’s weakest. This strategy provides flexibility: if Ekwonu experiences a significant improvement in his third year, Carolina will boast three dependable starters on the offensive line. However, if Ekwonu encounters difficulties, Onwenu can seamlessly transition to left tackle, while Ekwonu moves to an interior position.
New Orleans Saints
Despite currently exceeding the salary cap by $15.5 million, the Saints are known for their adeptness at restructuring contracts to achieve cap compliance, disregarding potential long-term ramifications. With Dennis Allen’s coaching future possibly on the line pending a playoff berth, maximizing Derek Carr’s performance in 2024 becomes paramount. Enhancing protection is crucial as Carr struggles significantly under pressure, and the Saints lack reliable tackles on their roster. Securing Mike Onwenu in free agency could substantially elevate the team’s offensive line, potentially making the difference between clinching a playoff spot and facing widespread dismissals.
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