Miami Dolphins free agent Connor Williams may not be able to start the season because of an ACL injury he got while playing against the Tennessee Titans in Week 14. However, some teams might consider hiring Williams as a backup center for a low cost. Even if he misses the first few weeks, he can still be valuable to a team in need of a center. According to Lorenzo Reyna of Pro Football Network views the Chicago Bears are considered as a potential landing spot for him.
“The Bears have already changed their offense, getting Keenan Allen and trading away quarterback Justin Fields. Both of these actions suggest that USC Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams is joining the team.
But Chicago needs a reliable player on the offensive line. Their center position has been weak for a while. Even the guard positions have been affected by injuries. Williams is one of the best flexible options available in free agency and could be appealing to Chicago.”
The Bears have had a great offseason and it seems like it will continue with the expectation of drafting Caleb Williams. Adding an experienced player to the team would enhance what they have done during free agency. After the season Williams had with the Dolphins before getting injured, he can be beneficial to a young and talented Bears team.
Williams is not ready to decide yet
In an interview on “The Joe Rose Show” in February, Williams’ agent Drew Rosenhaus mentioned taking their time with the decision.
“We will be very careful and take our time with the contract,” Rosenhaus said. “Much of it will depend on how Connor is feeling physically. He may not sign at the start of free agency. He may take more time based on his physical condition.
Connor’s situation has a level of uncertainty related to how he’s feeling. We will take it step by step once we get into the offseason, but I don’t think this will be resolved as quickly as some of the other players we represent.”
Based on his comments, it's possible that the former Miami Dolphins starter might not secure a deal until closer to training camp. This might keep teams like the Chicago Bears out of the running because their team will likely be finalized in the upcoming weeks.
How Williams Would Help the Bears
The Chicago Bears might seek help for their offensive line in the draft and free agency, but most of the top players are already taken. Williams would have been in the same group as the best in the game, with a rating of 86.5. PFF Considering that the Bears' drafted quarterback will need protection, adding a player like Williams makes a lot of sense. Even if he serves as a backup when he's healthy, having Williams as insurance is very valuable.
The Miami Dolphins could be in the same situation if he's willing to return, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see that happen. The Dolphins have limited cap space and adding a player familiar with the system for a good price could interest them.
The Bears would be getting an experienced player who showed last season that he can block well in a top-tier offense.
The Chicago Bears are seen as a potential team for former Miami Dolphins starting center Connor Williams to join during free agency.
