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, according to ESPN.
Williams suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season but is expected to be ready for Week 1 of the 2024 season. Last season, Williams participated in nine games for the Dolphins. Selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Williams started 10 games for the Cowboys at left guard in his rookie year, where his blocking was critical in helping the Cowboys secure a playoff berth and aiding Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title.
Despite suffering another season-ending ACL injury in 2019, Williams made a successful return, playing in all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020. In 2021, Williams allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys linemen, 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 Dolphins, starting in each of his 26 games for the team before his recent ACL injury.
Now, a number of teams are interested in Williams, not just because of his experience but also due to his anticipated readiness for the upcoming season.
Potential Teams
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 provide valuable competition for the starting center position. Williams' presence could be a significant boost given Philadelphia's rigorous offensive line demands.
The Jets have made protecting their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, their primary goal. The addition of a veteran like Williams would add much-needed stability to their offensive line, especially considering starting interior lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker's back-to-back season-ending injuries. However, financial considerations may make this a less likely scenario for the Jets.
The Chargers already have 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. Williams' experience in protecting franchise quarterbacks suggests he would adapt well to guarding Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert.
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. Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps prior to his recent injury, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
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. Bringing Williams onboard would improve 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 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."
In summary, Connor Williams stands at a pivotal point in his career, with multiple teams evaluating how his veteran experience and anticipated readiness for the 2024 season could benefit their rosters. From the Eagles to the Bears, each franchise sees potential in bringing Williams on board, a move that could significantly bolster their offensive line performance for the upcoming season.