The Cincinnati Bengals face many difficult questions this offseason, led by how they plan on bolstering their offensive line. One piece of the puzzle was put into place when veteran OT, Jonah Williams signed with the Arizona Cardinals.
Former Bengals OT Jonah Williams is signing a two-year, $30 million deal that includes $19 million guaranteed with the Arizona Cardinals, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2024
Jonah Williams, Arizona Cardinals, Agree to Contract
Williams was the first draft pick of the Zac Taylor era in 2019, and his performance has been a mixed bag. Williams has started in 59 games since arriving in Cincinnati, mostly at the left tackle position. Although he’s had some success against lesser EDGE rushers, the speed and power of AFC North defensive ends often gave him fits.
When the team brought in Orlando Brown Jr. last season, they asked Williams to move to the right side, and he initially was reluctant but ultimately came to his senses after the team passed on an OT in the 2023 NFL draft. The results early on were better than expected, although it quickly was evident it was fool’s gold as divisional play ramped up. Williams struggled the most against the divisional freaks of nature, Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt. While he’s certainly not alone in that regard, the Bengals need to find a tackle that can provide more consistency in holding up against the elite EDGE players to adequately protect franchise quarterback Joe Burrow for the long haul.
The market and price tag for Williams was higher than Cincinnati was willing to go. The positional flexibility that Williams could offer ended up being the feather in the cap that made him a more marketable asset in NFL circles. This change of pace is in the best interest of both parties in moving forward, and the Bengals get the benefit of the doubt in making the best out of an average situation.
Main Photo: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
