OL Mike Onwenu set to become a free agent after latest Patriots news
While the New England Patriots have locked down one of their top pending free agents, another is set to hit the market. That is unless they can agree on an extension by Monday. The Patriots have placed the transition tag on safety Kyle Dugger on Tuesday afternoon, and because of the collective bargaining agreement, only one […]
While the New England Patriots have locked down one of their top pending free agents, another is set to hit the market.
That is unless they can agree on an extension by Monday.
The Patriots have placed the transition tag on safety Kyle Dugger on Tuesday afternoon, and because of the collective bargaining agreement, only one franchise tag or transition tag can be used each offseason. So that leaves Onwenu without a deal at the moment.
Onwenu is set to become one of the Patriots highest paid free agents this offseason, but keeping him needs to be a priority.
He is very versatile, having moved from guard to tackle during the season. And with a new quarterback coming to New England, he will be a huge help on the offensive line. Especially considering Trent Brown is not expected to return.
And what's even more important is that he wants to stay. At least, that's what he told A to Z Sports in December.
“Its really where I built myself, turning into the person that I am," Onwenu told A to Z Sports. "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."
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.
Onwenu has fired his agents, so let's see if this helps or hurts the Patriots chances of bringing him back.
But for New England's sake, hopefully it helps.
Patriots pending free agents tracker: Where each player stands
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