The Seattle Seahawks have decided to sign former Miami Dolphins center Connor Williams. With Olu Oluwatimi and Nick Harris competing for the starting position, it seems likely that Williams will come out on top given his vast starting experience and strong performance before his season was cut short.
Here are some quick thoughts on this important addition to Seattle’s offensive line.
Opting for a single-year deal is a wise choice
One concern with Williams is his history of injuries, having torn his ACLs with both the Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins. While he has recovered and is set to play in Week 1, a “prove-it” deal may be the safest option given his injury past.
With a contract potentially worth up to $6 million, Williams has the opportunity for a significant pay increase if he performs well this season. Ideally, the Seahawks would reward him with a long-term extension if he proves himself, avoiding the risk of another offseason search for a center.
This signing is not about preventing young players from developing
Williams may have six NFL seasons under his belt, but at 27, he still has plenty of potential and is considered one of the top centers in the league when at his best.
Williams’ signing is not about favoring experience over potential; it’s about finding the best fit for the team. If Oluwatimi or Harris aren’t the right fit, it makes sense to bring in someone who is.
The decision to sign Williams ultimately comes down to getting the best performance for the team
Seattle is focused on building a strong interior offensive line and avoiding relying solely on inexperienced players.
With experienced players at key positions and Williams adding further experience at center, the Seahawks are aiming to have a balanced and capable offensive line.
While a fully homegrown offensive line would be ideal, the Seahawks are prioritizing experience and performance to make a playoff push.
Signing Williams was a strategic move to enhance the offense and maximize Geno Smith’s abilities moving forward.
John Schneider made a calculated investment with Williams, aiming for a more impactful outcome compared to past deals.
