New England Patriots offensive lineman Ted Karras proved he can serve as a starting-caliber center. That pays well in the NFL. That is likely to pay more than the Patriots are willing to afford, if center David Andrews’ blood clots don’t hold him out another season.
That’s the major “if” in Karras’ free agency prospects. Andrews is a superior center, with a sticky memory for the offensive playbook and even stickier blocking technique. The Patriots offensive line looked hugely challenged without Andrews anchoring the unit in 2020. But his health is an uncertainty, and the Patriots may want to pay extra money to retain Karras, who could start at center for Andrews or at guard, if Joe Thuney departs in free agency (which seems extremely likely). Karras’ versatility has been an invaluable asset over the last years when he’s filled in for injured players.
But the Patriots made Karras into the player he is. He was a sixth-round pick in 2016, and though offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia retires this offseason, New England may feel they can develop another player into the “next” Karras in 2020. The Patriots have Hjalte Froholdt, Jermaine Eluemunor and James Ferentz, all of whom seem to be players the Patriots like. (Ferentz and Eluemunor are also pending free agents.)
Of all the pending free agents on the offensive line, Karras’ situation is probably the most complicated. If he wants to get paid, he’ll probably land elsewhere, but if the Patriots are worried about Andrews and they already have a big hole to fill on the offensive line with Thuney, then perhaps they’ll bid for Karras, who might take less money to stay with New England.
