After being selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL draft by the New England Patriots, rookie center Jake Andrews could be in store for a major role heading into training camp.
Patriots offensive guard Mike Onwenu is still recovering from offseason ankle surgery, and he is currently on the PUP list. This could open up an opportunity for Andrews to step in and make an impact. In addition to playing center, he also played right guard at Troy in 2020 and 2021. The positional versatility could be important for Andrews as he looks to make his mark in New England.
Troy coach Jon Sumrall recently spoke about the competitive fire Andrews brings to an offensive line.
“He’s made up of the right stuff and has the right kind of wiring, if you will,” Sumrall said, via ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “Extremely tough. Dependable. A tremendous teammate. Loves the game and the details of what goes into being a great O-lineman. It’s a lot of fun as a football coach to coach a Jake Andrews-type guy.”
Andrews could end up being a tremendous value pick and exactly what the Patriots need with Onwenu out to start training camp.
New England’s offensive line allowed 41 sacks last season. A youth movement may be needed at the positional group with players like David Andrews, Trent Brown and Riley Reiff being in the 30-plus age range.
Giving a young player like Jake Andrews the chance to learn and develop on the fly could be important for the future.
