Entering the 2015 season, Bryan Stork was a shoo-in to become the New England Patriots’ starting center. After all, he held that role admirably during his 2014 rookie campaign which ended in the Patriots hoisting the Lombardi trophy.
The Florida State product had to start the year on the physically unable to perform list because of a concussion and a muscle-related neck issue. Once he returned, Stork became the starter again and, entering 2016 training camp, was the favorite to earn the role again.
Unfortunately, though, he had to leave Saturday’s due to an undisclosed injury and has been absent ever since. According to Jeff Howe, we now know the reason for the absence:
Bryan Stork is dealing with yet another concussion issue, per source. He suffered it during Saturday's first padded practice of camp.
Stork looked promising when on the field but his concussions are starting to become a major issue, not just for the team but for the player as well. After all, this concussion is the fourth he suffered in the last four years.
In his absence, second-year center David Andrews has taken over the first-team center role and if Stork remains out any longer, he might lose not only his starting spot but potentially a role on the team as well.
The most important thing, though, is that both Stork and the team do what is best for the 25-year old’s health.