David Andrews’ Medical Situation

Patriots starting center, David Andrews, was diagnosed with a blood clot in his lung. What roster implications does that have and will we see Andrews at any point this season?

I am, however, doing a roster prediction series and this breaking news has major implications. Andrews is arguably the best offensive linemen on the Patriots roster and filling his shoes is no easy task. But there are players who may have been cut or placed on the practice squad who can now make the roster. 

Andrews To Ted Karras

Karras was going to make the roster regardless. He is one of the most versatile and underrated linemen on the Patriots roster, though he is only used as a rotational player. With Andrews out, the top replacement is Karras. He has taken snaps with Brady in past seasons, as well as this preseason, at times. Having good communications between the center and quarterback is very important, as the quarterback tells the center any adjustments needed for protection. It also helps that Karras has played alongside the other two interior linemen, Shaq Mason and Joe Thuney. He has the best chance of working out as the new starting center. 

James Ferentz

Ferentz, a 30-year-old veteran, is also versatile like Karras. Playing with the Patriots for a couple of seasons gives him a little bit of experience to work with. His ability to play center with the news of Andrews medical condition brings his value higher up. Being that there are mainly rookies below and around him vying for that spot, those things mentioned above give him the advantage. He is a capable back-up in case of injury. 

Tyler Gauthier

Finally, undrafted free agent center Tyler Gauthier gets some added value. Though he hasn’t been talked about much, Gauthier has been quietly impressive. In college, he started in 29 straight games, showing his durability. Thus far in the preseason, he has been in 76 pass-rush protection scenarios and not once has he allowed pressure on the quarterback. But the main thing goes back to the fact that he hasn’t been praised at all so far. With the lack of publicity, despite his success, there is a chance he could be sent through waivers and onto the practice squad. Gauthier could very well serve as the “in an emergency, break glass” center for the Patriots if needed. 

In Conclusion

Again, I’m wishing nothing but the best for one of the league’s most undervalued and underrated players. Andrews has done everything right as a player and a person in this industry. 

Despite the severity, there is still a chance that the Patriots can have him back this season, however. If Andrews gets placed on Injured Reserve prior to the cut-down day, then his season is over. But, if the Patriots place him on IR after cut-down day, then he is eligible for return in week 8. 

All stats via Doug Kyed on Twitter

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