There is no way to sugarcoat this one: the Patriots are about to make a huge mistake.
Mike Onwenu told A to Z Sports exclusively during the season that he wants to stay with the team that gave him his first chance. And after the way he played this season, New England should be jumping on this opportunity.
But according to one NFL Insider, that’s not the case.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that the Patriots “essentially know Onwenu isn’t coming back, and he will have high bidders.” Fowler further wrote that a lot of teams across the league “view Onwenu as the top offensive lineman in free agency because of his physicality, quickness and ability to play guard or tackle.
But he wants to come back. And that Patriots have money this season. So what’s the issue?
Onwenu’s versatility shined throughout his four seasons with the Patriots. He started his career at tackle before transitioning to guard. However, with all the injuries this season, he moved back to tackle in his fourth season with the team and became a pivotal part in the offense.
And according to Onwenu, he believed it was a “mutual feeling” between him and the Patriots at the end of December.
“Its really where I built myself, turning into the person that I am,” Onwenu said. “They took the opportunity on me, drafting me in the sixth round. So I always like to, not necessarily prove doubters wrong, but I like to prove myself right. I always like to put my best foot forward and just prove that I’m supposed to be here and I am here.
“It hasn’t really been any contracts or anything sent,” he added. “But my agents have been telling me, ‘yeah, it’s been open talks.’ They’ve been talking to us, but nothing has been written or anything has been put into words.”
And he even added that regardless of what happens with Bill Belichick, he wanted to stay.
While other teams might show interest, Onwenu wants to keep playing at Gillette Stadium.
So make the top lineman a deal and keep him in New England.
It’s that simple.
