New England Patriots center David Andrews missed the entirety of the 2019 season with blood clots, but he should be back for 2020. According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, the former undrafted free agent has “expressed optimism” about returning and is in “excellent condition”. While plenty of things can change between now and the start of the regular season, having Andrews back should be a much-needed boost to New England’s offense.
David Andrews Optimistic About Returning in 2020
When he’s healthy, David Andrews is one of the best centers in the league. Initially entering the league as an undrafted free agent, Andrews steadily improved before becoming a Pro Bowl-caliber center in 2017 and 2018. Andrews was one of the most important parts to New England’s Super Bowl run in 2018, as his elite blocking helped shut down Aaron Donald in the Super Bowl and Kansas City’s ferocious pass rush in the AFC Championship Game.
In Andrews’ absence, the Patriots turned to former sixth-round pick Ted Karras to start at center. A guard by trade, Karras managed to do an adequate job but never quite matched Andrews’ level of play. Additionally, Ted Karras is now a free agent and is expected to receive a hefty pay raise on the open market. With Joe Thuney also an unrestricted free agent, New England’s offensive line could look dramatically different in 2020. If Andrews can come back, he can instantly solve the issues at center.
Even if Andrews finds his old form, the Patriots still need to find someone to start at left guard. Joe Thuney is probably going to cost too much to retain, and there aren’t too many inspiring options expected to hit free agency. The Patriots currently have former fourth-round pick Hjalte Froholdt on the roster but could also invest a Day 2 pick in someone like Cesar Ruiz out of Michigan. Ruiz has experience at both center and guard and should be able to contribute right out of the gate.
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