Mike Onwenu

BIOGRAPHY

Michael Onwenu, an illustrious American professional football athlete, was born on December 10, 1997. He is renowned for his commitment as a football guard for the acclaimed New England Patriots, one of the premier teams in the National Football League (NFL). Prior to his professional career, Onwenu brilliantly showcased his skill as a college football player for the Michigan Wolverines. His impressive performance in his college years led him to be selected by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL draft, marking his entry into the demanding world of professional football.

Onwenu’s football journey traces back to his days at Cass Technical High School. Even then, his exceptional athleticism and tactical prowess set him apart. He attracted nationwide attention, becoming the top-ranked recruit in his home state of Michigan. Despite lucrative offers from colleges like Alabama and Ohio State, Onwenu committed his promising future to the Wolverines of Michigan.

During his freshman year, Onwenu flexed his versatility by playing on both the offensive and defensive lines. However, as his glittering career progressed, he pivoted towards specializing at the right guard. His final three years at Michigan saw him steadily secure a starting spot in his junior and senior years, where he earned third-team all-Big Ten Conference honors for two successive seasons.

Onwenu’s professional career took off when the New England Patriots drafted him in the sixth round in 2020. As a rookie, he showcased extreme adaptability by alternating positions across the offensive line due to injuries affecting his team’s normal roster. Onwenu not only took on the role of a sixth offensive lineman and jumbo tight end, he also played right tackle and both guard positions. This multifaceted performance eventually led to his first career start as a left guard in an against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he helped the Patriots secure a victory with 250 rushing yards. Despite fluctuating between guard and tackle positions, Onwenu concluded the year as one of the best offensive linemen in the NFL, having started all 16 games for the Patriots. His remarkable rookie year accomplishments earned him a well-deserved spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team.

The subsequent season saw a period of uncertainty and transition for Onwenu. Following team changes and departures, he relocated to the left guard position but struggled, eventually being substituted with backup guard Ted Karras. Nonetheless, in the 2022 season, he made a significant comeback. He moved to right guard when rookie Cole Strange was given the starting left guard position. Onwenu impressed at his new posting, gaining recognition as PFF’s No. 4 ranked guard. He completed the season featuring in all 17 games, each as a starter.

His success continued into the 2023 season when he was designated as the starting right tackle following Isaiah Wynn’s departure to Miami Dolphins. Following this, he proved his worth by signing a lucrative three-year, $57 million contract extension with the New England Patriots in March 2024. Although he started the first four games as a right tackle, a slew of injuries to the offensive line forced him to return to the right guard position.

Onwenu takes great pride in his Nigerian heritage. Born to Nigerian parents who migrated to the United States, he embraces his roots while representing his nation with immense skill and fervor. Despite obstacles along the way, he has proven that tenacity, dedication, and skill lay at the foundation of success, and his journey is a testament to it. His remarkable career has cemented Onwenu’s place as one of the American football’s promising talents, demonstrating that determination, hard work, and resilience undoubtedly pay off.