The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams, a seasoned player in the NFL, is expected to sign with a new team before the 2024 season. Having previously played for both the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, Williams is currently in discussions with multiple teams. These negotiations, first reported by ESPN, come after Williams suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season. Despite this setback, Williams is projected to be ready for Week 1 of the upcoming season.
In his most recent season, Williams participated in nine games for the Dolphins before his unfortunate injury. A reliable force on the offensive line, he was initially selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Cowboys. During his rookie year, Williams started 10 games at left guard and played a crucial role in helping the Cowboys secure a playoff berth and aiding Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title. Unfortunately, his promising start was marred by a season-ending ACL injury in 2019, but Williams made a successful return by playing in all 16 regular-season games in 2020.
In the 2021 season, Williams solidified his reputation by allowing the fewest pressures of any Cowboys' lineman. His performance established his reliability and value as an interior offensive lineman. Williams tested the open market in 2022 and subsequently signed a two-year deal with the Miami Dolphins. Before his recent ACL injury, he started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins, further cementing his status as a dependable asset on the offensive line.
Potential Teams
With multiple teams expressing interest in Williams, his next destination remains a subject of much speculation. His experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season make him an attractive option for teams needing to bolster their offensive line:
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles find themselves in a critical position following the offseason retirement of veteran center Jason Kelce. While Cam Jurgens is seen as a potential replacement, bringing in Connor Williams could provide valuable competition for the starting center position. Williams' presence would be a significant boost, given Philadelphia's rigorous offensive line demands.
New York Jets
The Jets' primary goal for the upcoming season is to protect their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. Adding a seasoned veteran like Williams would bring much-needed stability to their offensive line. However, financial considerations may make this a less likely scenario for New York, especially given the recent back-to-back season-ending injuries of starting interior lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers already boast a solid offensive line but could benefit from further fortifying their ranks by adding Williams. 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.
New York Giants
The Giants' offensive line struggled mightily last season, allowing an alarming 85 sacks. Adding a player of Williams’ caliber could provide much-needed improvement in pass protection. Notably, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps prior to his recent injury, underscoring his capability as a reliable protector.
Chicago Bears
The Bears are 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. This addition would significantly improve the Bears’ chances of keeping their prized asset healthy throughout the season.
Conclusion
Connor Williams' potential return to form after his ACL injury will be closely watched by fans and teams alike. His track record of overcoming injury and delivering robust performances makes him an invaluable addition to any team looking to strengthen their offensive line. Given the interest from multiple teams and his anticipated readiness for Week 1 of the 2024 season, it is only a matter of time before Williams finds a new home where he can continue to make his mark in the NFL.
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 linemen 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."