David Andrews, a stalwart of the New England Patriots, bid farewell to his playing career on Monday, leaving a significant mark after a remarkable 10 years with the franchise. In an emotional announcement, Andrews reflected on his journey, expressing a deep commitment to finishing his career in the only place he called home as a professional. “I didn’t want to go do it for another organization,” he shared. “That wasn’t what I had in mind to finish my career. I wanted to finish it here and I did.”
Drafted as an undrafted free agent out of Georgia in 2015, Andrews carved out a niche for himself in the NFL that many can only dream of. Over his decade with the Patriots, he played in 124 regular-season games, starting 121 of them, and earned his place as a reliable force on the offensive line. Notably, Andrews had the honor of starting in three Super Bowls, contributing to the team’s triumphs in two of those championship games.
As a captain for eight seasons, Andrews experienced the rollercoaster ride of leadership. He was at the helm during some of the Patriots’ finest hours and weathered the storm during the challenging seasons from 2019 to 2024. In those years, the team managed to reach the playoffs twice, but they faced a postseason drought, failing to secure a victory.
Earlier this year, the Patriots released Andrews, marking an emotional chapter in his journey. “As you can see, there’s a lot of emotions,” he remarked, highlighting the mixed feelings that overshadowed his retirement. Gratitude stood out for him as he pondered his 26 years of playing football. “When I look back on the 26 years I’ve been blessed to play this game, that’s really all I could think about,” he said, emphasizing the camaraderie that defines the sport. “Especially playing O-line since I was 6 years old, you learn very quickly that it’s not about you, it’s about the team.”
For Andrews, his team was not just a unit; it was an elite squad that experienced tremendous success. His contributions helped the Patriots secure their fifth and sixth Super Bowl titles, solidifying his legacy as a key player in the franchise’s storied history. As he steps away from the game, Andrews leaves behind a legacy of dedication, teamwork, and a true understanding of the game’s core values.
