The New England Patriots made five trades during the 2020 NFL draft, and the last of which was made in the sixth round: the team traded the 212th and 213th overall selections to the Indianapolis Colts in order to move up to pick number 182 and select guard Michael Onwenu. The Michigan product brings an impressive frame as well as an intriguing developmental and possibly versatile athletic skillset to the table, and also offers considerable experience and durability.
Over the course of his career with the Wolverines, after all, Onwenu appeared in 47 games — 34 of which as a starter at right guard and one more as a starter on the left side — while missing just one due to a reported injury. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at what is a comparatively short injury history.
Injury history
2017 (sophomore): After playing both on the offensive and defensive lines during his 2016 true freshman season, Onwenu became a starter the following year and appeared in 12 of Michigan’s games. He did miss one contest, though, after suffering a lower leg (likely ankle) injury in late October against Rutgers: Onwenu left the field in the fourth quarter and subsequently also had to sit out the following week’s game against Minnesota. While he eventually returned, he started only one more game for the remainder of 2017 after serving as the team’s top right guard over the first eight games of the season.
What this means for the Patriots
Even though Onwenu had to miss one game during his sophomore year due to injury, he did prove himself a durable player throughout his college career at Michigan — especially considering the physical nature of the guard position. Accordingly, the Patriots will not have to worry about any significant medical issues when it comes to the 22-year-old: he is entering the NFL with a clean bill, health-wise, and will therefore be good to go whenever the team begins it on-field preparation for the 2020 season.
Whether or not the rookie lineman will be able to carve out a spot on New England’s roster or practice squad remains to be seen, but availability is certainly valuable for a projected backup player and could make a difference in his favor. As the old saying goes, “you can’t make the club from the tub” — and Onwenu certainly brings a good foundation to the table in this regard.