The Situation
Veteran interior offensive lineman Connor Williams is anticipated to sign with a new team before the 2024 NFL season starts. Having previously played for the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins, Williams is currently in discussions with multiple teams, according to an ESPN report.
Williams sustained a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season, but he is expected to be ready for action by Week 1 of the 2024 season. Last season, he participated in nine games for the Dolphins.
Selected as the 50th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Williams started 10 games at left guard for the Cowboys in his rookie year. His blocking was instrumental in helping the Cowboys secure a playoff berth and aided Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title.
Williams faced a similar setback in 2019 with another season-ending ACL injury but made a strong return, playing all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020. In the 2021 season, he allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman, solidifying his reputation as a reliable force on the offensive line.
In 2022, Williams tested the open market and eventually signed a two-year deal with the Miami Dolphins. He started in all 26 games he played for the Dolphins before his recent ACL injury.
Given his experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season, several teams are showing interest in Williams.
Potential Teams
The Philadelphia Eagles are actively seeking 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 for Philadelphia, given their rigorous offensive line demands.
The New York Jets' primary goal is to protect their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. Adding a veteran like Williams would provide 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 Los Angeles 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 New York Giants' offensive line struggled significantly last season, allowing a staggering 85 sacks. Adding Williams could provide much-needed improvement in the Giants' pass protection. Before his recent injury, Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
The Chicago Bears have centered their focus 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 throughout the season.
Quotes
Here are some notable quotes regarding Connor Williams:
- "Connor Williams is expected to sign with a team before the 2024 season." - ESPN
- "Williams suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season." - ESPN
- "Williams is expected to be ready for Week 1." - ESPN
- "Williams' blocking helped the Cowboys capture a playoff berth." - ESPN
- "Williams' blocking helped Ezekiel Elliott win his second rushing title." - ESPN
- "He suffered a season-ending ACL injury in 2019." - ESPN
- "Williams returned to play in each of the Cowboys' 16 regular-season games in 2020." - ESPN
- "Williams allowed the fewest pressures of any Cowboys linemen in the 2021 season." - ESPN
- "Williams tested the open market in 2022." - ESPN
- "Williams ultimately signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins." - ESPN
- "Williams started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins." - ESPN
- "Protecting Aaron Rodgers is the Jets' top priority." - ESPN
- "Adding a veteran like Williams to the group makes sense." - ESPN
- "The Giants' offensive line gave up 85 sacks last year." - ESPN
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, teams in need of a seasoned and resilient offensive lineman will no doubt be keeping a close eye on Connor Williams. His track record indicates that he has the ability to elevate any offensive line, contributing not just experience but also a proven history of impactful play.