Packers should steal this free agent away from the Patriots

The Green Bay Packers will need to make up the production of Corey Linsley this offseason. 

Matt LaFleur‘s tenure as the Green Bay Packers head coach will be tested in 2021. Several players are expected to hit free agency and with little money in cap space, they won’t be able to sign them all back at top dollar.

The one name that consistently is being questioned is the status of Corey Linsley. An All-Pro center and one of the most dependable at his position, Linsley has taken the NFL by storm since entering the league in 2014. He’s durable, dependable and a standout in pass protection.

That makes him worth the top price on the market. For Green Bay, there is a second option.

Nick Shook of NFL.com recently wrote on the best bargain free agents for every team this offseason. Naturally, the center is a confidant to the quarterback, meaning the loss of Linsley also could hurt Aaron Rodgers’ rapport.

For the right price, Green Bay would be foolish not to consider David Andrews from the New England Patriots.

Is David Andrews the next best center on the market for the Packers?

Joe Thuney will be the big name that could leave Gillette Stadium in 2021, but he’s not the only one. Since signing as an undrafted free agent out of Georgia in 2015, the 28-year-old has worked his way up the depth chart and been the full-time starter since his second season.

After missing the 2019 season with a pulmonary embolism, Andrews bounced back and graded out on Pro Football Focus with a 67.7 in 2020. In 12 starts, he allowed just two sacks and 12 total pressures to Cam Newton. He also has spent the majority of his career working with Tom Brady.

Best of all? He’ll be affordable.

According to experts at Spotrac, Andrews’ market value is set at $7.1 million a season. The expected deal to be offered will likely be set around three-years worth $21 million. Compare that to Linsley, who some project to make $11 million per season and Green Bay would be saving themselves near $4 million.

Andrews wants to return to New England and the Patriots have the funds. The goal though is also to win a Super Bowl each season. Despite donning two rings, adding a third would be the ultimate goal.

The only problem there is, who is the starting quarterback in New England for 2021 and beyond?

Andrews adds immense value to an offensive line. He also fits a need that Green Bay could be losing. Should New England pass on re-signing him, Andrews should be on the shortlist for a deal in the frozen tundra.