The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams is expected to sign with a team before the 2024 NFL season. Williams, who has an extensive history with both the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, is currently in discussions with multiple teams. This news was first reported by ESPN.
Williams suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season, but he is expected to be ready for Week 1. Last season, he participated in nine games for the Dolphins, showcasing his resilience and skill on the field.
A Look Back at Williams' Career
Selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Williams made an immediate impact in his rookie year, starting 10 games for the Cowboys at left guard. His blocking was critical in helping the Cowboys secure a playoff berth and aiding Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title.
Unfortunately, Williams' career has been marred by injuries, including another season-ending ACL injury in 2019. Despite these setbacks, Williams made a successful return, playing in all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020. In 2021, he allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman, establishing himself as a reliable force on the offensive line.
In 2022, Williams tested the open market and signed a two-year deal with the Miami Dolphins. He started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins before his recent ACL injury, demonstrating his durability and consistency when healthy.
Teams Expressing Interest
With Williams being a free agent, several teams have shown interest in acquiring his services due to his experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season. Let's explore the potential landing spots for Williams:
The Eagles: With Jason Kelce's retirement this offseason, the Eagles are in need of a solid interior lineman. Cam Jurgens is seen as a potential replacement, but bringing in Williams could provide valuable competition for the starting center position. His presence could be a significant boost given Philadelphia's rigorous offensive line demands.
The Jets: The primary goal for the Jets is to protect their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. Adding a veteran like Williams would add much-needed stability to their offensive line, especially considering that starting interior lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker has had back-to-back season-ending injuries. However, financial considerations may make this a less likely scenario for the Jets.
The Chargers: While the Chargers already have a solid offensive line, adding Williams could further fortify their ranks. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh's affinity for offensive linemen makes Los Angeles a potential landing spot. Williams' experience in protecting franchise quarterbacks suggests he would adapt well to guarding Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert.
The Giants: The Giants' offensive line struggled mightily last season, allowing a staggering 85 sacks. Adding Williams could provide a much-needed improvement in their pass protection. Prior to his recent injury, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
The Bears: The Bears focused on ensuring their offensive line could safeguard rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Adding a versatile and experienced player like Connor Williams would provide vital depth and resilience to Chicago's front line and improve their chances of keeping their prized asset healthy through the season.
Conclusion
Connor Williams has proven himself as a valuable asset on the offensive line, with a history of aiding playoff runs, protecting star quarterbacks, and facilitating rushing titles. Despite his injury history, his anticipated readiness for the upcoming season has made him a sought-after player in the free-agent market.
As the 2024 season approaches, it will be interesting to see where Williams lands and how he contributes to his new team. One thing is clear: his addition will bring experience, stability, and talent to any offensive line in the league. Stay tuned as discussions continue and teams finalize their rosters in preparation for the new season.