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 an ESPN report.
Williams’ career has been marred by injuries, most notably suffering a season-ending ACL injury in Week 14 of the 2023 season. However, he is expected to be ready for Week 1 of the upcoming season, providing a potential asset for any team in need of experienced offensive line help.
In the last season, Williams participated in nine games for the Dolphins before his unfortunate injury. 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 aided Ezekiel Elliott in winning his second rushing title. Despite suffering a season-ending ACL injury in 2019, Williams made a successful return, playing in all 16 regular-season games for the Cowboys in 2020 and allowing the fewest pressures of any Cowboys lineman in 2021.
In 2022, Williams tested the open market and ultimately signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins. He started in each of his 26 games for the Dolphins prior to his recent ACL injury, establishing himself as a reliable force on the offensive line. His experience and anticipated readiness for the upcoming season have attracted interest from multiple teams.
Potential Teams
Several teams have shown interest in Williams, each seeing him as a valuable addition to their roster.
The Philadelphia Eagles
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 a veteran like 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 New York Jets
For the Jets, the primary goal is to protect their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. Adding 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 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.
The 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. Williams surrendered just one sack in 497 snaps prior to his recent injury, demonstrating his capability as a reliable protector.
The 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
Several key quotes underscore Williams' potential impact on any team:
- "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."
Connor Williams’ journey in the NFL has been one of resilience and perseverance. Despite multiple injuries, he has consistently proven his value on the field. As teams vie for his services, Williams is poised to make a significant impact wherever he lands for the 2024 season.