NFL: 'I wanted to finish it here': Emotional David Andrews retires after a decade as Patriots' heart and soul on the O-Line
David Andrews, the steadfast center who anchored the
New England Patriots
' offensive line for a decade, announced his
retirement
on Monday(June 2), concluding a career marked by an unwavering loyalty to a single franchise.
"I didn't want to go do it for another organization," Andrews said, fighting back tears during his retirement ceremony at Gillette Stadium. "That wasn't what I had in mind to finish my career. I wanted to finish it here and I did."
Undrafted out of the University of Georgia in 2015, Andrews defied expectations to become a cornerstone of the Patriots' offensive line.
His journey with the Patriots
Over ten seasons, he appeared in 124 regular-season games, starting 121, and played in three Super Bowls, securing victories in Super Bowl LI and Super Bowl LIII.
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His journey was not without adversity. Andrews missed the entire season due to blood clots in his lungs in 2019, a life-threatening condition that cast uncertainty over his career. Yet, he returned to the field, exemplifying determination and grit.
A shoulder injury limited him to just four games in 2024, leading to his release by the Patriots in March 2025 with a failed physical designation. Despite the unexpected release, Andrews chose to retire rather than continue his career elsewhere.
"Gratitude," Andrews reflected. "For 26 years I've been blessed to play this game and that's all I could think about is gratitude. Especially for an offensive lineman where it's not about you, it's about the team."
Support from family, friends, and teammates
His retirement ceremony was attended by family, teammates, and notable figures from the Patriots organization. Former quarterback Tom Brady sent a heartfelt message: "Loved every minute for you and loved being your quarterback. I'm with you every step of the way. You deserve this day and congratulations."
Longtime teammate Devin McCourty praised Andrews' leadership: "What I loved about it is you made everyone around you better. As an undrafted free agent, you came in, you broke every door in front of you. You became a starter, a captain, a leader, and you did it year in and year out no matter what you were going through."
End of an era
Andrews' departure marks the end of an era for the Patriots, as he was the last remaining offensive starter from the 2018 championship team. His presence will be missed both on and off the field, but his legacy as a dedicated Patriot endures.
"I wanted to finish it here, and I did," Andrews affirmed, leaving behind a decade of memories and a lasting impact on the New England Patriots.
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