There’s no easy way to put this: The center market in free agency absolutely stinks.
That’s bad news for the Miami Dolphins, who currently have the following centers under contract in 2024: Liam Eichenberg and Chasen Hines.
And it’s fantastic news for Connor Williams, who, despite suffering a torn ACL just two months ago, tops the list of centers on PFN’s Top 100 list of free agents.
Miami Dolphins’ Few Center Options Beyond Connor Williams
What’s more, Williams is this year’s No. 39 free agent — regardless of position. That speaks to just how marvelous he was for the Dolphins prior to his injury.
He was a difference-maker, and the offense went into a tailspin after he got hurt.
In the Dolphins’ five games after Williams got hurt, they averaged just 18.4 points, 315.8 yards (including 236.2 passing), and a meager 5.4 yards per play.
The Dolphins are better with Williams on their roster, but they’re surely not the only team that feels that way. Considering his skill set and the shallow talent pool at his position in free agency, Williams will likely have a robust market (assuming his medicals check out).
Spotrac estimates Williams’ market value is a robust $13.5 million annually — which would make him the NFL’s second-highest-paid center.
But as our look at the Dolphins’ few starting-caliber options in free agency will show, it’s a price they might have to pay. There’s really not much else out there.
Potential Miami Dolphins Center Targets in Free Agency
All rankings and commentary are courtesy of PFN NFL analyst Dallas Robinson, who compiled PFN’s Top 100 list.
Lloyd Cushenberry | Denver Broncos
- Age: 26
- Seasons: 4
- Last contract: 4 years, $6.6 million ($1.7M AAV)
- PFN Top 100 Overall Ranking: 40
- Position Ranking: 2
- Robinson’s Take: A third-round selection in 2020, Lloyd Cushenberry worked under three Broncos coaching staffs in four seasons but still offered above-average play across 57 starts.
- While he’s not a world-beater, plenty of NFL teams might be searching for an experienced center this offseason. Clubs with first- or second-year quarterbacks under center could do worse than adding a competent veteran like Cushenberry.
Andre James | Las Vegas Raiders
- Age: 26
- Seasons: 5
- Last contract: 3 years, $12.5 million ($4.2 million AAV)
- PFN Top 100 Overall Ranking: 55
- Position Ranking: 3
- Robinson’s Take: Andre James inked a three-year, $12.5 million extension with the Raiders entering the 2021 campaign, just as he was set to replace Rodney Hudson as Vegas’ starting center.
- He’s been underpaid over the past three seasons, especially after ranking second among centers in pass-blocking win rate in 2023. James isn’t a household name, but don’t be surprised if he generates more interest than expected once free agency opens.
Tyler Biadasz | Dallas Cowboys
- Age: 26
- Seasons: 4
- Last contract: 4 years, $5.7 million ($1.9 million AAV)
- PFN Top 100 Overall Ranking: 90
- Position Ranking: 4
- Robinson’s Take: Tyler Biadasz, a starter since 2021, made his only Pro Bowl in 2022. He moves well in the run game and seems to complement pre-snap wizard Dak Prescott when they handle Dallas’ protection schemes. The Cowboys rarely sign external free agents. Unless they’re willing to draft and play a rookie center, Biadasz will likely be prioritized this offseason.
KEEP READING: Why Dolphins Shouldn’t Feel Compelled To Franchise Tag Christian Wilkins
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