The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams is expected to sign with a team before the 2024 season. Williams, who has previously suited up for both the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, is in discussions with multiple teams, as reported by ESPN. This move comes after a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season but Williams is expected to be ready for Week 1.
During last season, Williams appeared 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. His blocking was instrumental in helping the Cowboys secure a playoff berth and bring Ezekiel Elliott his second rushing title. Williams had suffered a similar season-ending ACL injury in 2019 but made a successful return, playing in all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020. In 2021, he allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman, 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. Before his recent injury, he started each of his 26 games for Miami. Given his experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season, multiple teams are reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
Potential Teams
A number of teams are in the running for Williams' signature. The Eagles are in need of a solid interior lineman following Jason Kelce's retirement this offseason. While Cam Jurgens is considered a potential replacement, bringing in Williams could provide valuable competition for the starting center position. His presence would be a significant boost given Philadelphia's rigorous offensive line demands.
For the Jets, the main priority 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 considering Alijah Vera-Tucker’s back-to-back season-ending injuries. However, financial considerations may make this a less likely scenario for the Jets.
On the other hand, the Chargers already boast a solid offensive line. 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 would provide a much-needed improvement in their pass protection. Before his recent injury, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
Similarly, 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, improving their chances of keeping their prized asset healthy through the season.
Quotes
"Connor Williams is expected to sign with a team before the 2024 season," read a report on ESPN. It added, "Williams suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season but is expected to be ready for Week 1."
Reflecting on his early career with the Cowboys, the report continued, "Williams' blocking helped the Cowboys capture a playoff berth and helped Ezekiel Elliott win his second rushing title." Despite suffering a season-ending ACL injury in 2019, "Williams returned to play in each of the Cowboys' 16 regular-season games in 2020. He allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman in the 2021 season."
The move to Miami also saw notable contributions. "Williams tested the open market in 2022 and ultimately signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins. He started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins."
Regarding the Jets' aspirations, the report highlighted, "Protecting Aaron Rodgers is the Jets' top priority, and adding a veteran like Williams to the group makes sense." On the Giants' struggles, it noted, "The Giants' offensive line gave up 85 sacks last year."
As the 2024 season approaches, the anticipation surrounding where Connor Williams will land continues to build. One thing is certain: whichever team signs him will gain a player known for his resilience, skill, and critical in-game contributions.