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's career has had its ups and downs, notably marked by injuries. Most recently, he suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season. Despite this setback, he is expected to be ready for Week 1 of the upcoming season.
Last season, Williams participated in nine games for the Dolphins. He was selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and started 10 games for the Cowboys at left guard in his rookie year. His blocking was critical in helping the Cowboys secure a playoff berth and aiding Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title. However, Williams's career has also been punctuated by significant injuries, including another season-ending ACL injury in 2019. Nevertheless, he 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 lineman, establishing himself as a reliable force on the offensive line. He tested the open market in 2022 and ultimately signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins. Williams started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins before his recent ACL injury.
Interest from Multiple Teams
Given his experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season, a number of teams are showing interest in Williams. His ability to provide stability on the offensive line is particularly appealing to franchises looking to bolster their protection up front.
Among the interested teams are the Philadelphia Eagles, who need a solid interior lineman following Jason Kelce's retirement this offseason. Cam Jurgens is seen as a potential replacement, but bringing in Williams could provide valuable competition for the starting center position. Given Philadelphia's rigorous offensive line demands, Williams' presence could be a significant boost.
The New York Jets are another team in the mix. Their primary goal is to protect their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. The addition of a veteran like Williams would add much-needed stability to their offensive line, especially given that starting interior lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker has had back-to-back season-ending injuries. However, financial considerations may make this scenario less likely for the Jets.
The Los Angeles Chargers, who already have a solid offensive line, could further fortify 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.
The New York Giants also emerge as a potential destination. Their offensive line struggled mightily last season, allowing a staggering 85 sacks. Adding Williams could provide a much-needed improvement in the Giants' pass protection. Notably, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps prior to his recent injury, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
The Chicago 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. His presence would improve the Bears' chances of keeping their prized asset healthy through the season.
Quotes and Projections
As one insider noted, "Connor Williams is expected to sign with a team before the 2024 season." Despite his season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season, Williams is expected to be ready for Week 1.
Williams' blocking has been a key factor in his teams' successes. His contributions helped the Cowboys capture a playoff berth and enabled Ezekiel Elliott to win his second rushing title. After recovering from a season-ending ACL injury in 2019, Williams returned to play in each of the Cowboys' 16 regular-season games in 2020. In 2021, Williams allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman.
Testing the open market in 2022, Williams ultimately signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins, starting in each of his 26 games for the team. His role in protecting star quarterbacks is critical, as noted by the Jets’ top priority of protecting Aaron Rodgers. Adding a veteran like Williams makes sense for many teams, especially those with offensive line struggles.
The Giants' offensive line gave up 85 sacks last year, highlighting their desperate need for improvement. Bringing in Williams could address this glaring issue, as his track record before his injury suggests he is more than capable of providing reliable protection.
Overall, Connor Williams' imminent return and potential signing with a new team bring hope and excitement. Multiple franchises are keenly watching his recovery, eager to add his talent and reliability to their rosters.