The Detroit Lions are facing a difficult decision as the free agency period approaches, especially with regard to their offensive line. It will be difficult for the team to find a worthy replacement for LG Jonah Jackson,
who is reportedly planning to explore free agency and maybe obtain a salary higher than what Detroit is willing to pay. This will make the offensive line outstanding. A prominent candidate who appears to be a viable fit for the Lions is Michael Onwenu of the New England Patriots.
Since being chosen in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Onwenu—who will become an unrestricted free agent unless the Patriots extend his contract—has shown incredible flexibility. In his debut season, Onwenu started as a tackle but spent the next two years as a guard. He moved back to tackle mid-season in the 2023 season, when he performed admirably and shown his versatility and competence at several different places on the line.
The Lions are drawn to players that can play multiple positions, and Onwenu is a very desirable choice for Detroit due to his skill as a guard and tackle. His ability to perform well in a variety of roles and switch between them with ease could provide the Lions the adaptability and strength they need to maintain one of the top new gland offensive lines in the league.
In the event that Jonah Jackson does decide to leave the Lions, the organization may find it wise to sign Michael Onwenu. The flexibility of Onwenu and his track record of success on the offensive line with the Patriots complement the Lions’ goals of having a strong front line. Also, the Lions may be able to acquire a player of his level without the hassles of trade talks in a timely manner if he becomes available as an unrestricted free agency.
The Lions’ top concern going into the 2019 free agency period will be filling the possible void created by Jonah Jackson’s departure. Detroit has the opportunity to add Michael Onwenu, a guy whose talent and adaptability may fit right into the offensive line plan and guarantee its success going forward. In addition to being a great asset, Onwenu’s versatility may be the secret to the Lions’ offensive line’s continued supremacy in the NFL. The thought of Onwenu wearing a Lions uniform as free agency draws near is thrilling for both the team and its supporters.
