After nearly a decade anchoring the New England Patriots’ offensive line, veteran center David Andrews has officially announced his retirement from the NFL. The team confirmed the news early this morning, revealing they will honor Andrews with a special retirement ceremony on June 2 at Gillette Stadium — a fitting farewell for a player who has been a cornerstone of their success in recent years.
Andrews’ retirement marks the end of an era. An undrafted free agent out of Georgia in 2015, Andrews beat the odds to not only make the Patriots’ roster but become an immediate impact player. By his second season, he had solidified himself as the team’s starting center, showcasing leadership, intelligence, and relentless toughness that would define his career.
Over the course of his nine-year tenure in New England, Andrews became a locker room leader and fan favorite. Known for his gritty play, steady presence, and fierce loyalty to his teammates, Andrews embodied the Patriots’ culture. He played in 114 regular season games and started 104 of them, anchoring an offensive line that consistently protected some of the greatest quarterbacks to play the game — most notably, Tom Brady.
Andrews was instrumental in the Patriots’ success during the late 2010s. He helped the team win two Super Bowl titles — Super Bowl LI, the historic 28-3 comeback against the Atlanta Falcons, and Super Bowl LIII, a defensive slugfest against the Los Angeles Rams. In both championship runs, Andrews played a crucial role in maintaining control at the line of scrimmage and opening up opportunities for the offense.
Though he never earned a Pro Bowl nod — often an oversight — his value to the Patriots was never in question within the organization or among teammates. He was a team captain for several seasons and often the emotional heartbeat of the offense. His leadership extended beyond the field, as he was active in the community and known for his approachable, down-to-earth demeanor.
Andrews’ career wasn’t without its challenges. In 2019, he missed the entire season due to blood clots in his lungs — a condition that threatened not only his career but his health. Yet, in true Andrews fashion, he fought back and returned to the field in 2020, continuing to play at a high level and mentoring younger linemen along the way.
Now at 32, Andrews has decided it’s time to step away from the game. While he hasn’t announced what’s next, it’s clear he leaves behind a powerful legacy — not only as a two-time Super Bowl champion but as a symbol of perseverance, leadership, and team-first mentality.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft and head coach Bill Belichick are both expected to speak at the June 2 ceremony. “David represents everything we value in a Patriot,” Kraft said in a statement. “His toughness, leadership, and heart helped define our team over the last decade. We will forever be grateful.”
As the Patriots prepare to honor their longtime center, fans across New England and the NFL community reflect on the career of a player who may not have sought the spotlight, but whose contributions shone brightly in the most important moments.
David Andrews hangs up his cleats as one of the most respected players of his era — a true Patriot, through and through.
