Patriots starting center David Andrews walked into New England's locker room midway through the first quarter at Levi's Stadium on Sunday.
Andrews was deemed questionable to return against the San Francisco 49ers after he suffered a shoulder injury, per the Patriots.
The veteran captain has proven a key piece of the offensive line, and the offense in general.
New England's depth behind Andrews showcased itself as a major concern during training camp and the preseason.
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Backup center Nick Leverett replaced Andrews when the Patriots took the field with 2:26 left in the first quarter. Rhamondre Stevenson fumbled the first offensive snap of the possession and San Francisco recovered.
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