FOXBOROUGH -- A day after it was reported Patriots center David Andrews has blood clots in his lungs that may put his season in jeopardy he was present at practice, but just as an observer.
"It is great," backup interior lineman Ted Karras said when asked what it was like to have him on the field. "Obviously, he's a big part of the team. He's been a leader for us for a long time now. Just having him around is a big plus for our unit and our team."
Andrews added: "I can't say enough good things about Dave Andrews. A dear friend of mine and I have been privileged to play for a long time with now."
The Georgia product has only missed two games since the start of the 2016 season, so it's the first time the team has needed to replace him for extended time.
It appears like Karras may be asked to do the job, as he's the most experienced backup player on the roster.
"Again, that is coaching decisions," said Karras. "I am going to come into work everyday and work my hardest and do anything I can to help the team."
Karras primarily has played guard, but does have plenty of center experience.
"You have to make the calls, but I have been around here for awhile," he said of the differences between the two spots. "I am just coming to work every day. It is not that much different. You just have to snap the ball, though. That is the biggest difference."
Other players to potentially fill in for Andrews on the roster are James Ferentz and undrafted rookie Tyler Gauthier. The team could also scour the waiver wire over the weekend, but it may be best to go with somebody who quarterback Tom Brady has worked with in the past.
Regardless of who it is, there's plenty of confidence things will stay on track.
"We have tremendous confidence in any guy that steps on that field because we've went through those situations before, repetitions and stuff like that," guard Shaq Mason said.
The Patriots will play their final preseason game Thursday night against the Giants.
