Former Miami Dolphins center Connor Williams sustained an ACL injury while playing against the Tennessee Titans in Week 14. Without the injury, Williams might have secured a new team by now, possibly even being re-signed by the Dolphins. However, due to his current availability, he is expected to be available on the market for a significant portion of the offseason. According to Dallas Robinson from Pro Football Network, there’s a prediction that Williams is likely to join the San Francisco 49ers among the potential landing spots.

“The San Francisco 49ers placed 20th in pass-block win rate and 23rd in run-block win rate last season, yet they have chosen to prioritize offensive line continuity in the ongoing offseason. The team has re-signed right guard Jon Feliciano and inked a contract extension with right tackle Colton McKivitz until 2025.

Connor Williams, following a ‘fairly significant’ ACL injury in December, does not have a set timeline for securing a new team, as shared by his agent Drew Rosenhaus to WSVN recently. Depending on the progress of his recovery throughout the summer, the 26-year-old could present an optimistic acquisition opportunity for the 49ers

 

Williams Might Delay Signing

The San Francisco 49ers see Williams as a valuable yet affordable addition who could contribute when in good health. While the team has already bolstered their offensive line earlier in the offseason, they are open to further additions at a reasonable cost in the future.

At a minimum, Williams might be a late-season or mid-season addition once he recovers. Looking back at the previous year, the Miami Dolphins experienced how injuries can greatly impact a season. Similarly, the 49ers faced challenges in the 2022-23 season due to injuries, highlighting their awareness that a season can swiftly turn around due to unforeseen circumstances.

Having the talent suitable for the NFL is essential for a team aiming for the Super Bowl, and that’s precisely what the 49ers possess.

While acquiring him would be beneficial, it seems unlikely that he will make a decision anytime soon.

Drew Rosenhaus, who is Williams’ agent, mentioned on “The Joe Rose Show” in February that they intended to carefully consider his decision.

“We plan to be deliberate and cautious when it comes to the contract,” Rosenhaus explained. “A significant factor in our decision-making process could be Connor’s physical condition. He might not be the type of player to sign right at the beginning of free agency. Depending on his physical well-being, he might take more time.

“Connor’s situation is characterized by a level of uncertainty that hinges on his physical state. Once the offseason begins, we will approach it day by day. It seems unlikely that his situation will be resolved as swiftly as some of our other clients.

Reasons Why it Benefits the Miami Dolphins to Extend Williams’ Contract

In the 2023-24 season, the performance of the Miami Dolphins’ offensive line fluctuated. They were ranked 31st in pass block win rate and eighth in run block win rate, as reported by ESPN.

Injuries to key players like Williams, Terron Armstead, and others affected the line’s consistency, leading to a lackluster overall performance.

Retaining Williams provides the team with stability similar to what the San Francisco 49ers have. While he may not achieve All-Pro status, Williams will bring experience as he enters his seventh season in 2024, offering a dependable option when required.

Given their constrained cap space, it would be wise for the Dolphins to re-sign him to a cost-effective contract, ensuring they have a reliable backup plan in place.