Patriots kickoff 2016: A look at David Andrews
Today marks 60 days until the New England Patriots open the 2016 season, so we’re taking a closer look at the owner of the No. 60 jersey, center David Andrews.
Size: 6-foot-3, 294 pounds
College: Georgia
2015 stats: 11 starts (14 games)
NFL experience: One season
Hometown: Johns Creek, Georgia
A darling of the Patriots’ 2015 rookie class despite not being drafted, Andrews picked up the slack and then some while incumbent Bryan Stork was held out of action on the PUP list at the beginning of the season with head and neck injuries. He even pushed Stork for playing time when Stork returned.
Patriots won’t be stopped if they can stay healthy
Andrews stood out from the first whistle of training camp, playing like a seasoned veteran and eventually getting the starting nod in Week 1 as a result of his impressive play and the unavailability of Stork. He started every game through Week 10, playing so well that he earned the second-most Pro Bowl votes among centers.
Recent installments in Patriots kick-off countdown profile series:
61 days – No. 61 Marcus Cannon
Andrews surpassed expectations so much that he ranked second on the team in performance-based salary, only behind Malcolm Butler. The Patriots wouldn’t have gone undefeated in the first 10 games if it weren’t for the outstanding play of Andrews at center.
Are there any offensive free agents worth considering?
It will be very interesting to see who the Patriots tab as the starting center for Week 1. They have the luxury of having two of the NFL’s best centers in Stork and Andrews at their disposal.
Next: 10 most promising sophomore pros on Pats’ roster
Be sure to stop by Musket Fire tomorrow as we mark 59 days until the Patriots open 2016 by profiling the owner of the No. 59 jersey, linebacker Rufus Johnson.