The New Orleans Saints and Baltimore Ravens may be favorites for elite offensive lineman, Connor Williams this summer. According to a report, one of the best remaining free agents is having his first official visit with the Seahawks but other teams could target him while he’s exploring his options. Williams spent the last two years with the Miami Dolphins before tearing his ACL late last season. However, a source is saying that he is making a “miraculous” recovery in time for training camp from his surgery.
It’s no surprise that teams are reaching out now that he’s healthy since he was one of the best at his game before his injury. The Texas product was playing more of a guard for the Dallas Cowboys before making his transition to center when he arrived in Miami. It’s been paying off for him since making the new move as he was emerging as one of the best centers in the league in 2022 and 2023. The new Seattle offense could use some of his athleticism to spread the field on the interior line where it’s weak for the Seahawks.
However, the Saints and Ravens still need guards this upcoming season and he wasn’t a bad one during his time in Dallas. Lamar Jackson excels in the play action play even though he will have Derrick Henry for support. There could be additional help to keep this offense moving and avoid the pressure. Williams is the best available on the market and he has the experience so it’s a no-brainer to play for the best if he has Super Bowl aspirations.
Taliese Fuaga is joining the Saints but they could further improve their line to help Derek Carr who is already on the hot seat this upcoming year.
Saints, Ravens May Be Favorites For Elite Offensive Lineman Connor Williams
Other Potential Destinations
Dallas Cowboys
A reunion in Dallas might be what seems right for both sides even though the Cowboys have been doing their homework in this year’s draft. Tyler Biadasz is no longer the center for the team since his departure so that leaves Brock Hoffman and rookie Cooper Beebe to compete for the starting job. It’s not clear who may be the starter but Williams’ addition to that lineup could boost the additional help. However, they do need help at other offensive line positions since departing with Tyron Smith.
Tyler Guyton is stepping in to fill that role but no matter what they could look into some insurance policy.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are making life easier for Bryce Young on their offense but they could use some additional support. It’s nice that they’re stacking on talent in the passing game but there should be veteran insurance to help boost the running game. Young was atrocious last season in his rookie year but he has Diontae Johnson, rookie Xavier Legette and a returning Adam Thielen. The only way this team will work out is if they have enough support to reduce the pressure for Young in the pocket.
Carolina has tons of running backs like Rashaad Penny, Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders to help develop a supportive cushion. However, they should be reliant on the running game and let Williams join the team to take the pressure from the shoulders of Young.
Los Angeles Chargers
Corey Linsley is off to the sunset and not returning to the league. This leaves Bradley Bozeman to have big shoes to fill which would be tough for him to do. Jim Harbaugh is establishing this offense in an old-school style reliant on the running game. So this means he needs the best of the best and Williams would be the ideal free agent on the market.
