There’s a chance Connor Williams may miss the start of the 2024 NFL season as he nurses an ACL tear.
But, there’s a stronger possibility that his powerful blocking will be needed for a franchise seeking center help. Who will be willing to sign the veteran interior offensive lineman?
Connor Williams Free Agency Landing Spots 2024
Before his excruciating knee injury, Williams established himself as one of the league’s top blockers. He became lauded for his ability to line up at multiple spots from tackle to center. But in the case of ’24 free agency, Williams appears better suited to help a team in need of some inside muscle. Here’s who looks like a fit.
Tennessee Titans
New head coach Brian Callahan has an offensive line he needs to fix.
Signs point to him and Tennessee drafting a tackle at No. 7 in the 2024 NFL Draft. But even after that pick, the Titans need interior blocking help. As it is, Aaron Brewer was lost to the Miami Dolphins this offseason — creating a hole that Williams could potentially fill in a center swap.
Chicago Bears
The Bears have already remodeled their offense, trading for Keenan Allen and dealing away quarterback Justin Fields. Both are indications USC Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams is coming to the Windy City.
But Chicago needs a trusted blocker up front. The Bears have lacked stellar center play for quite some time. Even the guard spots got ravaged by injuries. Williams is one of the best versatile blocking options still out on the free agent market and could look attractive to Chicago.
Los Angeles Chargers
Williams is an established run blocker. The Chargers, following trading their six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Allen to the Bears for a 2024 fourth-rounder, appear to be turning to a physical ground attack under Jim Harbaugh.
That approach is perfect for Williams. He can come in as a versatile plug-in at guard, center, or tackle who can move defensive linemen around for Gus Edwards and Company.
New York Giants
The Giants are an instant place needing any kind of offensive line help. After all, watching 85 sacks in 2023 answers why.
KEEP READING: 2024 NFL Top 100 Free Agent Rankings
Williams, again, remains one of the best options out there. Even if the Giants turn to the NFL Draft and take multiple offensive linemen, they need a veteran who can guide them along and be available at any spot when injuries occur. It won’t be a shock if the Giants decide to bring in the former Dallas Cowboys OL Williams.
Philadelphia Eagles
From what it appears, the NFC East may be calling for Williams again.
But Philadelphia has two appealing potential sales pitches for Williams. One is Kellen Moore, his past offensive coordinator with the Cowboys who’s now at the same position in Philly. The other involves Jason Kelce retiring. If the Eagles opt to go the veteran route in replacing the All-Pro Super Bowl winner Kelce, then Williams becomes the best option.
Every move. Every team. Don’t miss a thing with PFN’s NFL Free Agency Tracker.