David Andrews, an emblem of resilience and leadership for a decade in New England, will be moving on in 2025, as the Patriots announced his release on Wednesday. His journey from an undrafted rookie to a cornerstone of the Patriots' offensive line is a testament to his dedication and skill, as Andrews' place among the team's all-time great offensive linemen is firmly established.
Andrews spent 10 seasons with the Patriots, winning two Super Bowl titles in 2016 and 2018, serving as a team captain eight times, and entrenching himself as one of the team's core championship leaders.
Andrews was a mainstay in college at the University of Georgia with 40 career starts, earning AP Second Team All-SEC honors as a senior as well as team MVP. As a senior, his consistent performance earned him a spot as one of six finalists for the Rimington Trophy, awarded to the nation's top center.
Despite his collegiate accolades, Andrews went undrafted in 2015. Undeterred, he signed with the Patriots on May 8, 2015. Injuries to key players provided Andrews an opportunity, and he seized it, seeing immediate action in every preseason game. His reliability led to him starting at center in Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking the beginning of a remarkable NFL career.
Andrews' influence was immediate as he started 11 games in his rookie season. His leadership qualities were recognized early, leading to his appointment as a team captain in 2017, his second season with the team.
In 2019, Andrews faced a significant health challenge with a pulmonary embolism, which sidelined him for the season. Demonstrating resilience, he returned in 2020, reclaiming his starting position and continuing to anchor the offensive line. His commitment to the team was further solidified with a four-year contract extension in 2021.