The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams is expected to finalize a contract with a team before the 2024 season. Williams, who has previously played for both the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, is currently in discussions with multiple teams, according to a report by ESPN.
Williams' 2023 season was cut short due to a season-ending ACL injury sustained in Week 14. Despite this setback, Williams is expected to be ready for Week 1 of the upcoming season. Last season, he participated in nine games for the Dolphins. Selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Williams started ten games at left guard for the Cowboys in his rookie year, proving pivotal in securing a playoff berth and aiding Ezekiel Elliott in clinching his second rushing title.
Throughout his career, Williams has faced significant challenges, including an earlier ACL injury in 2019. However, he made a successful return, playing all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020. In 2021, Williams distinguished himself by allowing the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman, solidifying his reputation as a reliable force on the offensive line.
After testing the open market in 2022, Williams signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins and started in each of his 26 games before his recent injury. His track record and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season have garnered interest from several teams.
Potential Teams
The Philadelphia Eagles are among the teams interested in Williams. Following Jason Kelce's retirement this offseason, the Eagles need a solid interior lineman. While Cam Jurgens is seen as a potential replacement, bringing in Williams could provide valuable competition for the starting center position. His presence would be a significant boost to Philadelphia's offensive line, known for its rigorous demands.
The New York Jets are another potential suitor. With the primary goal of protecting their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, the Jets could benefit from Williams' experience and stability. Given Alijah Vera-Tucker's back-to-back season-ending injuries, adding a veteran like Williams makes sense. However, financial considerations might pose a challenge in making this move viable for the Jets.
Over in Los Angeles, the Chargers already boast a solid offensive line, yet 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 shielding franchise quarterbacks suggests he would adapt well to protecting Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert.
The New York Giants are another possibility, given their struggles on the offensive line last season. The Giants allowed a staggering 85 sacks, indicating a desperate need for improvement in pass protection. Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps before his recent injury, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
The Chicago Bears are also in the mix. Focusing on ensuring their offensive line can safeguard rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears could benefit from adding a versatile and experienced player like Connor Williams. His addition would provide vital depth and resilience to Chicago's front line, improving the Bears' chances of keeping their prized asset healthy throughout the season.
Quotes
"Connor Williams is expected to sign with a team before the 2024 season."
"Williams suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season."
"Williams is expected to be ready for Week 1."
"Williams' blocking helped the Cowboys capture a playoff berth."
"Williams' blocking helped Ezekiel Elliott win his second rushing title."
"He suffered a season-ending ACL injury in 2019."
"Williams returned to play in each of the Cowboys' 16 regular-season games in 2020."
"Williams allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman in the 2021 season."
"Williams tested the open market in 2022."
"Williams ultimately signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins."
"Williams started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins."
"Protecting Aaron Rodgers is the Jets' top priority."
"Adding a veteran like Williams to the group makes sense."
"The Giants' offensive line gave up 85 sacks last year."