The game between the Patriots and the 49ers in Week 4 is underway in Santa Clara, and the away team has already suffered a devastating loss in the first quarter. As if the issues with the Patriots' offensive line weren't already bad enough, starting center David Andrews exited the game to the locker room with an apparent shoulder injury.
He was immediately reported to be questionable to return, which isn't a great sign. It's also not great that the Patriots' backup centers performed poorly throughout the preseason and were more of a liability than a help.
On deck is Nick Leverett, who will replace Andrews for the rest of the game if he is unable to return.
Patriots injury update: Center David Andrews, shoulder, return questionable.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) September 29, 2024
Nick Leverett would be next-man up. That backup center spot has been a concern throughout the spring/summer.
Considering the significant issues the offensive line has been having with protecting the quarterback and opening the run game in recent weeks, losing Andrews is a massive blow to the potential for offensive success on Sunday afternoon.
Besides Mike Onwenu, he is the Patriots' most dependable lineman and offensive captain, which are valuable traits the young roster needs.
It's a situation worth monitoring at this point, especially so early in the game. The Patriots are hoping to show a much better performance against a tougher opponent than what they last showed against the Jets on Thursday Night Football. An embarrassing loss is hopeful to fuel their efforts against the 49ers, who are unfortunately dealing with a similar situation with a 1-2 record.
UPDATE:
As the offense takes the field for their second drive of the game, Andrews is still in the locker room and is replaced at center by Leverett. No update has been provided regarding the veteran's status, but when that is announced, this page will be updated with that information.
No sign of David Andrews on the sideline ahead of this drive. I argued in the summer he might've been their most indispensable player based on what's behind him. Nick Leverett is next up at that spot.
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) September 29, 2024