The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams is on the verge of signing with a new team ahead of the 2024 NFL season. A seasoned professional, Williams has previously played for both the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins and is currently in discussions with multiple teams. ESPN first reported these discussions.
Williams experienced a setback in Week 14 of the 2023 season when he suffered a season-ending ACL injury. However, he 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 made an immediate impact by starting 10 games at left guard for the Cowboys during his rookie year. His contribution to the Cowboys' offensive line was crucial in helping the team secure a playoff berth and aiding Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title.
Unfortunately, Williams also suffered a season-ending ACL injury in 2019. Demonstrating resilience, he made a successful return in 2020, playing in all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys. In 2021, he allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman, thereby establishing himself as a reliable force on the offensive line.
In 2022, Williams tested the open market and ended up signing a two-year deal with the Dolphins. Before his recent ACL injury, he started in each of his 26 games for the Miami franchise.
Given his experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season, Williams has captured the interest of a number of teams.
Potential Teams
Several teams are potential landing spots for Connor Williams, each with its own motivations and needs.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are in need of a solid interior lineman following Jason Kelce's retirement this offseason. While Cam Jurgens is seen as a potential replacement, bringing in Williams could add valuable competition for the starting center position. Additionally, Williams' presence could be a significant boost given Philadelphia's rigorous offensive line demands.
New York Jets
The Jets' primary goal is to protect their star quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and the addition of a veteran like Williams would add much-needed stability to their offensive line. Starting interior lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker has had back-to-back season-ending injuries, making this move even more critical. However, financial considerations might make this a less likely scenario for the Jets.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers already boast a solid offensive line but adding Williams could further fortify their ranks. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh’s affinity for offensive linemen and Williams' experience in protecting franchise quarterbacks suggest he would adapt well to guarding Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert.
New York Giants
The Giants' offensive line struggled mightily last season, allowing a staggering 85 sacks. Adding Williams could provide a much-needed improvement in pass protection. Last season, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps before his recent injury, showcasing his capability as a reliable protector.
Chicago Bears
The Bears have focused on ensuring their offensive line can 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, improving the Bears' chances of keeping their prized asset healthy through the season.
Quotes
ESPN reports, "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," another statement from ESPN reads, but they also note, "Williams is expected to be ready for Week 1."
Reflecting on his past performances, "Williams' blocking helped the Cowboys capture a playoff berth," and "Williams' blocking helped Ezekiel Elliott win his second rushing title."
Despite his injury history, including another season-ending ACL injury in 2019, Williams has consistently bounced back. He returned to play in each of the Cowboys' 16 regular-season games in 2020. Notably, Williams allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman in the 2021 season.
After testing the open market in 2022, "Williams ultimately signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins," where he started in each of his 26 games before his recent injury.
As various teams weigh the benefits of adding Williams to their roster, key priorities include the need to protect star quarterbacks and shore up faltering offensive lines. Protecting veterans like Aaron Rodgers or promising rookies like Caleb Williams makes sense, and front offices are keen on utilising Williams' experience and proven track record.
In summary, as teams vie for Connor Williams' signature, the veteran lineman's experience and impending readiness for the 2024 season make him a valuable asset for any franchise looking to bolster its offensive line.