The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams is set to sign with a new team before the 2024 NFL season. Formerly a player for both the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, Williams is currently engaged in discussions with multiple teams, as reported by ESPN.
Williams' career has been marked by significant achievements and unfortunate injuries. He 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. Prior to his injury, Williams participated in nine games for the Dolphins last season.
Williams was selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He started 10 games at left guard during his rookie year for the Cowboys, playing a crucial role in helping the team secure a playoff berth and aiding running back Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title. Williams showed resilience by making a successful return from a season-ending ACL injury in 2019, playing all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020. In the 2021 season, he allowed the fewest pressures among 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. He started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins before his recent ACL injury.
Potential Teams
Several teams are showing interest in Williams due to his experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season. Here’s a look at some of the potential landing spots and their motivations:
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles need 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.
New York Jets
For the Jets, the 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, particularly 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.
Los Angeles Chargers
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.
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. Notably, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps prior to his recent injury, demonstrating 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, improving the Bears' chances of keeping their prized asset healthy through the season.
Quotes
Here are some pertinent quotes regarding Connor Williams' career and potential future:
- "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."
As the 2024 season approaches, Connor Williams is poised to impact whichever team secures his expertise. With his track record of resilience, reliability, and high-level performance, Williams will undeniably be a valuable asset to his new squad.