Patriots OL David Andrews Hoping to Play in 2020 After Sitting Out Season With Blood Clots

The New England Patriots were dealt a notable blow to their offense before the 2019 season even kicked off. David Andrews, who emerged as an irreplaceable asset on the Pats' offensive line since becoming the full-time starting center in 2016, was hospitalized in August and was later diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs.

Unsurprisingly, the two-time Super Bowl champion was sidelined for the entire season.

Andrews has received positive feedback from doctors throughout his recovery, however, and that trend continued this week. A comeback could be in the offing.

According to Mike Reiss, who covers the Patriots for ESPN, Andrews is in excellent physical condition and has "expressed optimism about returning to play in 2020." The Georgia product underwent procedural tests in late February and plans to continue approaching his situation with caution.

As he should.

With something as serious as blood clots, there is simply no need for Andrews to rush back into things. The 27-year-old has an entire offseason to get right, and he appears to be making significant progress at each of his check-ups.

Though fans shouldn't pencil Andrews in as the starting center in 2020, Patriots Nation should rejoice hearing this news. It's an encouraging step in the right direction.