In the NFL, injuries are a drag. Teams are building a roster. They want talent, and durability as well. That’s the real currency in the big league. Every year, highly skilled players slip in the draft or struggle in free agency, because of medical issues. Take a look at Nakobe Dean or maybe Andrew Booth Jr. Their stock dipped even tho they are talented. It’s the injury red flags, that’s scaring teams away. Brutal but no matter how good you are, if teams can’t trust your durability, they’ll hesitate to invest. And that’s exactly why the Patriots are at a crossroads, rejecting a $12M star for someone more young and healthy on their radar.

Mike Vrabel and the Patriots are passing on veteran David Andrews, as his $12M price tag isn’t worth the risk for them. After Mike Vrabel took over as head coach, the Patriots are shifting toward a tougher, more stable roster. And that means making some tough calls, like potentially moving on from longtime center David Andrews. Andrews, who has been a staple in New England’s offensive line since 2015, is coming off a serious shoulder injury that ended his 2024 season early. At 32 years old, his durability is a growing concern, especially since he’s battled multiple injuries over the past few seasons.

Mike Vrabel wants to build trust within the team, “I think a successful season is going to be one where the players believe in what we’re doing. This is what’s going to help us, this is what’s best for us. These people care,” he told Karen Guregian of MassLive during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

Financially, Andrews is set to count $12 million against the cap in 2025, making him one of the highest-paid centers in the league. But, the problem is when he’s not on the field, the Patriots’ offense struggles. New England already ranked 26th in rushing, averaging just 98.7 yards per game and allowed 47 sacks, i.e. 8th-most in the league last season. Can they afford to bet on an aging, injury-prone center to turn things around? Probably not.

In Vrabel’s eyes, availability matters just as much as ability. The Patriots are already in roster overhaul mode. So, committing big money to an injured veteran on the decline doesn’t fit their long-term vision. This is a team that needs stability in the trenches, especially as they look to rebuild their offensive identity under a new QB, potentially a rookie. That’s why passing on Andrews is more like a culture statement.

Patriots look to sign Falcons’ free agent for their new QB

 Instead of gambling on Andrews’ health, the Patriots are exploring a younger, more durable option, Drew Dalman, a free-agent center from the Atlanta Falcons. According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler. The 26-year-old started all 17 games, tallying 72 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles for Atlanta last season. Proving he can handle the full grind of an NFL season, something the Patriots desperately need. The big question is will they stick to the vet or go for fresh legs.

Dalman brings strong run-blocking skills to the table, earning a 75.8 PFF run-blocking grade in 2024. He’s also given up just two sacks over the past two seasons, showing his ability to keep the pocket clean, something that would be a welcome sight for New England’s struggling offense. With the Patriots likely transitioning to a younger, mobile QB, having a reliable center like Dalman to call protections and handle blitz pickups is crucial.

Another key factor is the Scheme fit. Dalman played in Arthur Smith’s run-heavy system in Atlanta, meaning he’s already accustomed to power and zone-blocking schemes that the Patriots could incorporate under Vrabel. Pairing him with guard Cole Strange and tackle Mike Onwenu (if re-signed) could give the Patriots a formidable interior line for the first time in years.

At the end of the day, the Patriots’ decision comes down to health, cost, and long-term value. Andrews has been an incredible leader for New England, but in the NFL, availability is everything. By targeting Dalman instead, the Patriots are making a forward-thinking move, one that prioritizes stability and consistency over nostalgia. If they land him on a three-year, $24-30 million deal, it could be one of the most underrated signings of the offseason.