Patriots Rumors: David Andrews Agrees to New Contract with $8M Guaranteed

The New England Patriots and center David Andrews agreed to a two-year contract with a maximum value of $13 million.

Field Yates of ESPN reported the deal carries $8 million in guarantees and has a base value of $12 million total. Andrews was slated to become a free agent after the 2024 season.

A starter since his rookie season in 2015, Andrews played in all 17 games last season. The two-time Super Bowl champion received a 71.2 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. He's been a consistent focal point and leader at the center position throughout his career, so it's no surprise the Patriots would want to keep him around.

Having a steady presence leading the offensive line will be paramount for New England as the team attempts to turn Drake Maye into a franchise quarterback. The Patriots tried and failed the same experiment with Mac Jones over the previous three seasons, and the first draft pick of the post-Bill Belichick regime will have all eyes focused on his progress.

Maye is not a lock to start Week 1 next season, and it's fair to wonder whether the Patriots should be patient with the North Carolina product. The Patriots have one of the NFL's weakest skill-position groups, and there are questions on the offensive line beyond Andrews.

Jacoby Brissett returned to the team this offseason and could be a steady hand in the interim.

Regardless of when Maye does step on the field, it's likely Andrews will be snapping him the ball.