David Andrews will remain in place with New England for at least the next two years. The Patriots’ longtime center has agreed to an extension keeping him on the books through 2025, ESPN’s Field Yates reports. 
Yates adds that Andrews will receive $12MM in base compensation between this year and next. He can earn up to $13MM via incentives. This pact – the fourth of his career – will see the former UDFA collect $8MM in guaranteed money.
Andrews was scheduled to earn $5.5MM in 2024, the final year of his $19MM extension signed in 2021. The Georgia alum’s cap hit was set for $8.43MM, a figure which will likely change depending on the structure of this agreement. Andrews has served as New England’s starter at center for all but five regular season and playoff games in his rookie season, totaling 127 starts across his career to date. He will carry on in his current capacity with another multi-year agreement in hand.
Today’s Patriots investment comes not long after Andrews admitted to contemplating his future this offseason. The 31-year-old said in a press conference that he committed to continuing his career for 2024 (h/t ESPN’s Mike Reiss). Considering New England’s decision to add another year to his existing pact, the chances are high Andrews could continue playing through 2025 if he remains healthy.
Andrews has managed to play over 1,000 snaps four times in his career, including the 2023 campaign. His run blocking remained strong with respect to PFF evaluation, but his pass protection took a notable step back compared to recent seasons. He was charged with six sacks and 30 pressures allowed, which resulted in a career-worst PFF grade of 51.2 in that department. A rebound this season would be welcomed by team and player.
New England has committed to retaining a number of in-house players this offseason. Along the offensive line, that effort has seen tackle/guard Michael Onwenu sign a three-year, $57MM deal, one which will keep him at the RT spot moving forward. Questions are in place regarding the Patriots’ blindside protection with free agent addition Chukwuma Okorafor the likely left tackle starter as things stand. Regardless of what happens on that front, Andrews will continue as a mainstay in the middle.
Shoutout Icedogs
Patriots ownership certainly loves happy endings. Is it true Asian orchids are provided after every signing of Patriot player? God knows you can beat that.
Idiot!!
If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Locking down center with the long time incumbent is probably a good move, given how the rest of franchise is running in roller-coaster mode.