New England Patriots director of scouting Eliot Wolf and head coach Jerod Mayo each stressed the significance of retaining offensive lineman Michael Onwenu this offseason.

And upon the start of free agency, New England put actions to words, dishing out a three-year, $57 million contract to Onwenu, cementing the return of a foundational piece up front.

The Patriots wanted Onwenu to be a culture-setter, and Onwenu wanted a representative payday. Both sides met their marks.

With his new deal, Onwenu now ranks No. 2 amongst left guards, No. 3 amongst right guards and No. 4 amongst right tackles league-wide in terms of compensation – a fitting referendum for a player who’s seen snaps at each spot since entering the league.

Onwenu, a sixth-round pick in 2020, has started all 32 games he’s played in across the past two seasons while serving as a versatile member of New England’s offensive line.

According to Pro Football Focus, Onwenu has played over 1,500 snaps at right tackle and over 1,800 combined snaps at left and right guard.

The 26-year-old Onwenu saw 656 snaps at right tackle this past season compared to 194 at right guard, where he played over 1,000 snaps in 2022. He allowed only three sacks last season.

For New England, Onwenu is one of several players retained by Mayo and staff, as outside linebackers Josh Uche and Anfernee Jennings and receiver Jalen Reagor have been brought back, while others with past ties to the organization such as quarterback Jacoby Brissett have been signed.

For Mayo, building a strong culture is important. It starts up front – and Onwenu, who’s now been nicely paid, will be a key part in helping New England’s new era start on the right note.