The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams is expected to sign 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, as reported by ESPN.
Williams' recent history has been marred by injuries. He suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season, but he is expected to be ready for Week 1 of the upcoming season. The 2023 season saw him participate in nine games for the Dolphins before his unfortunate injury.
Career Highlights
Selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Connor Williams made an immediate impact in his rookie year. Starting 10 games for the Cowboys at left guard, his blocking was instrumental in helping the Cowboys secure a playoff berth and aided Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title. Williams, however, has been no stranger to adversity. He suffered another season-ending ACL injury in 2019 but made a successful return, playing in all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020.
Williams' performance continued to shine in 2021, when he allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman. He established himself as a reliable force on the offensive line and tested the open market in 2022, ultimately signing a two-year deal with the Miami Dolphins. Before his recent ACL injury, Williams started in each of the 26 games he played for the Dolphins.
Potential Teams
Several teams have expressed interest in Williams due to his veteran experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season. Here are some of the top contenders:
Philadelphia 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. 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. Adding a veteran like Williams would add much-needed stability to their offensive line, especially after starting interior lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker suffered back-to-back season-ending injuries. However, financial considerations may 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 makes Los Angeles a potential landing spot. Given Williams' experience in protecting franchise quarterbacks, he would likely 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 the Giants' pass protection. Before his recent injury, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
Chicago Bears
The Bears are focused on ensuring their offensive line can safeguard their 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
- "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."