The Chargers should keep an eye on offensive tackle Mike Onwenu of the New England Patriots, who is possibly the greatest blocker available. Having played for Jim Harbaugh’s Wolverines throughout his college years, the offensive tackle was selected sixth overall in the NFL draft. Despite coming from modest beginnings, he made a fast and significant impact on the offensive line in New England, playing a standout guard and tackle during his four seasons with the Patriots after Brady.
The offensive lineman is scheduled to become a free agent after yet another successful season, and rumors circulating in the league suggest that the Patriots are not anticipated to re-sign him. In light of this, ESPN’s Matt Bowen thinks Mike Onwenu might be best suited with the Chargers.
There is no offensive line talent on the Chargers other than left tackle Rashawn Slater. A 6-foot-3, 330-pound people mover would be ideal for coach Jim Harbaugh’s run attack. Additionally, Onwenu demonstrated to the Patriots this season that he is capable of holding down the fort at right tackle or guard in pass protection, which would be beneficial to Justin Herbert.
Mike Onwenu, an offensive lineman, is linked to the Chargers in free agency.
It is understandable why the Chargers would want to have a player such as Mike Onwenu on their team. Even though Slater is among the league’s greatest tackles, the offensive line as a whole still requires improvement. Trey Pipkins finished the season with the 50th-best PFF grade out of 81 offensive tackles, being his typical unimpressive self. Though it’s possible to do far better, you may also do much worse. Jamaree Salyer, an offensive lineman in his second year, underperformed following a strong debut campaign.
One of those two will be replaced in the starting lineup by Mike Onwenu if the Chargers sign him. He is a perfect fit for Harbaugh because of his Michigan ties, but he is also the kind of player Los Angeles needs. Harbaugh and offensive lineman Greg Roman are always discussing the value of the run game, and Onwenu is a formidable player in the trenches because of his unusual combination of size and strength.
Ultimately, though, the NFL is a throwing league, and wherever Chargers franchise quarterback Justin Herbert lines up, Mike Onwenu will help keep him healthy. Onwenu is an excellent guard as well as an offensive tackle. The Chargers will need to decide if they would rather have a great player at a luxury position or a solid player at a premium position since tackle is more vital than guard.
Getting the Money to Work
Mike Onwenu is expected to sign a four-year, $54.76 million contract in free agency, according to Spotrac, and the Chargers will find it difficult to part with that much cash. The team is currently $33.7 million over the anticipated salary cap as of this publishing, so they will need to find a way to make some money if they hope to sign Onwenu.
Mike Williams may be cut by the Chargers for $20 million, and it is inevitable that the former first-round selection will play elsewhere in 2019. Furthermore, moving Khalil Mack and extending Keenan Allen or Joey Bosa will free up some cash.
None of the aforementioned changes are guaranteed to happen this offseason because they all have long-term consequences. The Chargers do, however, have options if they wish to make room for Mike Onwenu.
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