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USA Today
a day ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
David Andrews sends final message to Patriots fans after retirement announcement
David Andrews sends final message to Patriots fans after retirement announcement Former New England Patriots center David Andrews sent a final message to Patriots fans after announcing his retirement on Monday. The retirement marks the end of a career that spanned 10 seasons in the NFL. Andrews was the consummate Patriot and a linchpin on the offensive line. He left his mark on multiple eras in Patriots' history, including the second half of the Tom Brady Super Bowl era, the short-lived Mac Jones era and the start of the Drake Maye era. The two-time Super Bowl champion and longtime team captain gave everything he had to the franchise, and he took one final moment to share his appreciation to Patriots fans. 'What's up Pats fans? It's been such an honor to get to play for you guys each and every Sunday," said Andrews. "You guys always traveled well, you were at the away games. It was always awesome pulling up at the stadium, seeing all of y'all. It was always great coming here to Gillette. Thank y'all for everything. It's been such an honor to get to represent y'all. I'll miss seeing y'all, but if you guys see me in the bar, let's have a beer. Go Pats.' Andrews was undoubtedly a fan favorite and someone who represented the Patriots organization in the right way. The winds of change have been blowing strongly at Gillette Stadium in recent years, and Andrews' retirement is just another reminder that the previous dynasty days are in the rearview mirror. Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.
New York Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- New York Times
For Patriots fans, David Andrews' retirement has air of finality to it
'One by one, our old friends are gone.' — Johnny Ola, 'The Godfather Part II' If the question ever comes up during Trivia Night at Winter Hill Brewing Company, Joe Cardona was the last active New England Patriot from the Bill Belichick-Tom Brady era. But in announcing in an April 29 news release that Cardona had been released, the Pats left out the important stuff, the stuff worth remembering. Advertisement Such as Cardona's being the last remaining Patriot with a team-issued Super Bowl ring or two locked away in the family jewelry box. Or that Cardona was the last Patriot with license to begin a story with, 'So one day Tom Brady and I walked into a bar, see, and …' Yet that's exactly how it felt Monday when the Patriots held a news conference to announce the retirement of center David Andrews, though he was released from the Patriots on March 13, some six weeks before Cardona was cut loose. It's just that it would have been a tad awkward for the Patriots to hold a news conference that March morning. For one thing, Andrews was still an active player, free to sign with another team. You don't want to hold a party for a player you've just released and then wake up the next morning to find out he signed with the New York Jets. Besides, talk about bad timing! It so happened that March 13, the Patriots held a news conference to unveil four free-agent additions: defensive tackle Milton Williams, cornerback Carlton Davis III, offensive lineman Morgan Moses and linebacker Robert Spillane. It was a day of out with the old and in with the new at Gillette Stadium, except that only the new got a news conference. But, yes, Andrews has decided to retire. There will be no triumphant return to Gillette Stadium this season in a rival uniform. Brady returned as a Tampa Bay Buccaneer, Adam Vinatieri as an Indianapolis Colt, Willie McGinest as a Cleveland Brown, and so on. The next time Andrews returns to Gillette Stadium for a Pats game, it'll either be an outing with the family or in some public appearance capacity. The smart money has him clanging the bell in Robert Kraft's beloved end zone lighthouse in the run-up to New England's Sept. 7 season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders. Before reading the next sentence, please note that no disrespect is intended for Cardona and other holdover Patriots from the Super Bowl days who have moved on since the new coaching staff moved in, including cornerback Jonathan Jones, defensive end Deatrich Wise and linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley. But the Andrews news conference serves as a reminder, as if any Patriots fan needed one, how much has changed down Foxboro way. Consider that the Andrews news conference included video tributes from teammates from the good old days, including Julian Edelman, Rob Gronkowski, Matthew Slater and, of course, ol' No. 12. It must have been impossible for any Pats fan to watch coverage of the news conference and not daydream. One mean blocking machine. For a decade, David Andrews defined what it meant to be a Patriot 👏 — NFL Films (@NFLFilms) June 3, 2025 Andrews was as solid a player as any team could hope for, even more so considering he was signed as a rookie free agent May 8, 2015, six days after the draft. I always like to look back on when a player signed with a team to measure how much, if any, media hoo-ha was attached to the news. With Andrews there was nothing. Just various 'Transactions' mentions that the Patriots had signed seven rookie free agents, including this David Andrews kid from Georgia, plus receiver Chris Harper of Vanderbilt, cornerback Eric Patterson of Ball State, defensive back Jimmy Jean of Alabama-Birmingham, and so on. Advertisement Next thing you know, it's Week 1 and Andrews is the starting center because Bryan Stork was dealing with a concussion and neck injury. As the season rolled along, with the Pats off to a 7-0 start, the Andrews hoo-ha began — that is, as much hoo-ha as can be bestowed on a player who was an unknown during training camp. Such as this Nov. 3 Associated Press dispatch: 'David Andrews, the center who has played every snap of the 7-0 start, is an undrafted rookie free agent who carries his load like a veteran.' And here we are, a decade later. Monday's news conference was about a retirement, sure, but it was also about preparing Andrews for his new role as a distinguished member of the New England Patriots Super Bowl Ring Club. These things matter with the Patriots, whose annual media guide used to include images of miniature Lombardi trophies with each player's bio to indicate how many Super Bowl-winning teams he's played on. It was two of them for Andrews — Super Bowl LI (the 28-3 game) and Super Bowl LIII. .@dandrews61 announces his retirement from the New England Patriots. — New England Patriots (@Patriots) June 2, 2025 That's why the Andrews presser had a sense of finality to it, not just for one player's career but for one team's two decades of dominance. It was like a high school reunion, and you know what happens at those things: Somebody brings along an old yearbook, which gets passed around while good times are being remembered and re-celebrated. The yearbook then gets returned to the dusty bookshelf from whence it came. And everyone goes home. Insofar as his playing career is concerned, David Andrews has gone home. As have Joe Cordona. Jonathan Jones, Deatrich Wise, Ja'Whaun Bentley … This year, for the first time since 2001, the Patriots media guide will have no miniature Lombardi trophies next to the players' names.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Your drinks are free in New England for life': David Andrews' retirement stirs up a whirlwind of emotions across the Patriots Nation
(Image via Getty: David Andrews) Retirement is an emotional event. Nobody's ready for it. And nobody wants it. But it just happens to everyone, and nobody can reverse it. David Andrews , longtime center for the New England Patriots, announced retirement after a decade-long relationship with the Patriots Nation. While addressing the media, the 32-year-old Patriots center got so emotional that he had to take a momentary pause. A momentary pause to let all that sink in, to digest the fact that he won't be able to play on the gridiron for the Patriots Nations, for his near and dear ones, and for himself anymore. Patriots center David Andrews announces retirement in tearful press conference 'If you guys see me in a bar, just have a beer,' says a recently retired center for the New England Patriots, David Andrews David Andrews addresses his fans via a self-recorded video - 'What's up Pats fans? It's been such an honor to get to play for you guys each and every Sunday. You guys always traveled well. You were at the way games. It was always awesome pulling off the stadium - seeing all of ya'll, and it was always great coming here at Gillette(Stadium). Thank you all for everything. It's been such an honor to get to represent ya'll. I'll miss seeing ya'll - but if you guys see me in a bar, just have a beer. Go Pats!' X users commented on David Andrews' parting note. One wrote, 'Hell of a career DA, your drinks are free in New England for life. Georgia in your heart but to us you'll always be FOXBORO FOREVER. GO PATS!' Another said, 'I could tell you always gave it your all! Enjoy retirement!' And a third fan said, 'Thank you David!!! End of an era!' 7-time Super Bowl Champion Tom Brady calls 2-time Super Bowl Champion David Andrews - a leader of the offensive line NFL legend Tom Brady shared a heartwarming congratulatory retirement message for David Andrews. Part-owner of Las Vegas Raiders said, 'David, congratulations, my man. Welcome to the other side. You couldn't have had a better career. You were not only a great teammate, but you were a champion. And playing that center position for our team all those years. As you know, the heart and soul of any great team is the offensive line, and you were the leader. You were right in the middle. I loved every minute with you. I loved being your quarterback. I'm with you every step of the way. You deserve this day. Congratulations.' David Andrews did not want to play for another organization so he retired being a New England Patriots player The Offensive MVP went undrafted in the 2015 NFL Draft. But the same year, on May 8, 2025, he was signed by the New England Patriots as a free agent. Cut to present - David Andrews was released by the New England Patriots on March 13, 2025. Two months later, he announced retirement on May 28, 2025. Andrews' retirement ceremony happened at the Gillette Stadium on June 2, 2025. His love, commitment, dedication, and admiration for the Patriots were so mountainous that he wanted to end his NFL career as a New England Patriots player and not as any other team player. On June 2, Andrews shared with the press, 'I wasn't healthy. Once I got away from the game, I obviously still wanted to play, but I didn't want to go do it for another organization. That wasn't really what I had in mind to finish my career. I wanted to finish it here, and I did.' David Andrews accolades: 2-time Super Bowl Champion(2016 and 2018) 8-time Team Captain New England Patriots All-2010s Team Second-team All-SEC(2014) Rimington Trophy Finalist Also Read: Stefon Diggs caught an Offset pass - Cardi B | NFL News - Times of India
USA Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Stefon Diggs was once the brightest of stars. What happened to him?
Stefon Diggs was once the brightest of stars. What happened to him? Show Caption Hide Caption Pats HC Mike Vrabel is 'aware' of Stefon Diggs boat video Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel answers questions about the recent video of his wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Sports Seriously Editor's note: This story is a part of a series by USA TODAY Sports called Project: June. We will publish at least one NFL-themed story every day throughout the month because fans know the league truly never sleeps. Do you remember when Stefon Diggs was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL? Do you? Because I do. In 2020, Diggs led all receivers with 127 catches and 1,535 receiving yards. He made four consecutive Pro Bowls while with the Buffalo Bills. He was devastating. Absolutely devastating. There was a time, not so long ago, when an argument could have been made that Diggs was the best receiver in football. Then slowly, ever so slowly, things started to change. Or, maybe the better way to put it, is things began to reveal themselves. It should be made clear that Diggs was well liked by Bills teammates and was a relentless worker. But cracks started to show in the relationship between Diggs and the team. There was, for example, the time Diggs and quarterback Josh Allen exchanged words on the sideline. Things shifted for Diggs. The reasons why have never been extremely clear. There are many theories. One thing is certain. If you remember what Diggs did in 2020, what you're seeing now is stunning. He did have some nice seasons in Buffalo after that year, but he was traded to Houston, and then tore his ACL. Diggs is now in New England. Then came the latest with Diggs. New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said he was aware of a video circulating on social media that included Diggs. "Obviously, we want to make great decisions on and off the field," Vrabel said when asked about the video. "We're hoping that with our time here on the field today, that when we don't have a script and we're on the call periods, that we're making great decisions. The message will be the same for all our players, that we're trying to make great decisions. Any conversations that I've had with Stefon will remain between him, I and the club." Patriots radio color commentator Scott Zolak, who played for the team, said the possibility of Diggs getting cut wasn't off the table. 'I came to this show yesterday with the opinion — not opinion, but the knowledge that it is on the table,' Zolak said on 98.5 The Sports Hub's 'Zolak & Bertrand. 'That it is being thought of. And it's not just the boat. It's not just the boat. There are some other things that I've heard that put some things in question. Are you all-in here? 'The videos look great of him working out. I've touted the videos. I know you need diva receivers. I say he shouldn't be cut, because I think he would help Drake Maye and this offense and Josh McDaniels, because you would have a true viable guy that would set coverage. Right now, you still don't have a guy who sets coverage. I'm sorry.' This situation puts Vrabel in a tough spot. He's trying to institute his culture as a new Patriots head coach, and cutting Diggs would send a message that you have to be "all in" as Zolak said. Yet the team also desperately needs Diggs' talent. So, back to the original question. Do you remember when Stefon Diggs was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL? It's impossible to tell where Diggs goes from here. Maybe he can regain that 2020 form (and 2022 wasn't too shabby, either). You saw parts of the old Diggs last season in Houston where he finished with 496 yards in eight games. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said Diggs was at the team's OTAs on Monday. So that's good news if you're the Patriots. Diggs wasn't there last week. Something just seems off with Diggs. That doesn't mean it will stay that way. Maybe he can resuscitate his career. You'd have to think there's still something left. His success in Buffalo wasn't that long ago. Because I still remember. Do you? All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter. Check out the latest edition: Best fits for remaining free agents.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Gronk is a national treasure': How Rob Gronkowski turned a near scooter crash into the week's funniest viral moment
Rob Gronkowski is back in the spotlight, but this time it wasn't on the football field, it was on the streets of Miami. The former NFL tight end went viral after a hilarious scooter encounter with overenthusiastic fans nearly turned into a traffic mishap. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The moment, captured on video and widely shared on TikTok and Instagram, has fans buzzing once again about Gronk's larger-than-life personality. From fan cheers to a cheeky comeback, only Rob Gronkowski can pull this off Rob Gronkowski was cruising solo through the Miami streets, enjoying the sunshine and laid-back vibe. That peace was short-lived when a group of fans in a passing car recognized him and couldn't contain their excitement. The lighthearted encounter suddenly became tense as the car swerved a little too close. One particularly enthusiastic fan, filming from the passenger seat, shouted, "Go Pats, baby!" a nostalgic nod to Gronkowski's legendary days with the New England Patriots. Never one to shy away from fan interactions, Gronk responded with a big smile and a friendly, 'Hello!' The moment seemed innocent and playful until the vehicle unexpectedly slowed and veered into his path, nearly cutting off his turn. Remaining in character, Gronkowski didn't lose his cool. Instead, he fired back with a cheeky grin and a memorable quip, 'Yeah, watch where you're going, asshole!' From TikTok to Instagram, fans celebrate Rob Gronkowski's signature quick wit On TikTok, ESPN shared the now-viral clip with the caption, "Gronk was just vibing on his scooter," capturing the carefree and comedic vibe of the moment. The video quickly gained traction, racking up over 4,000 likes as fans flooded the comments with reactions to Gronkowski's classic, cool-headed response. Among the top comments were praises like, "Gronk is a national treasure," and "Only Gronk can make a near accident hilarious," reflecting how deeply fans appreciated his signature mix of humor and calm under pressure. Over on Instagram, Marca America also picked up the clip, posting it with the bold caption, "GRONK CONFRONTS FANS AFTER NEAR COLLISION! " The comment section lit up with admiration for the way Gronk handled the awkward moment. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Fans applauded his quick wit and natural charisma, making it clear that even a near run-in can turn into pure entertainment when Gronk is involved. Also read: From touchdowns to TikTok, Rob Gronkowski proves yet again that retirement hasn't dimmed his spotlight, it's only widened it. Whether he's spiking footballs or side-eyeing traffic, Gronk continues to entertain with every unexpected moment.
