Veteran center Connor Williams is one of the top free agents still available, but according to an analyst and former NFL scout, he won’t be joining the Chicago Bears.
Greg Gabriel, who scouted for the Bears for nine years and is now an analyst for SB Nation’s Windy City Gridiron, often shares his insights on the team via social media. With over 30 years of NFL experience, his opinions carry weight due to his enduring connections with the Bears and the league.
Currently, the Bears are deciding between Coleman Shelton and Ryan Bates for the starting center position. Despite the significance of this role and speculation that Chicago might secure it by signing Williams, Gabriel asserts that this move is unlikely.
Reports Indicate Williams Is Fully Recovered from 2023 Injury
Connor Williams, 27, suffered an ACL tear in December last season, but he has reportedly recovered remarkably quickly from the injury during this offseason.
“Former Cowboys and Dolphins free-agent center Connor Williams, who underwent season-ending knee surgery, anticipates being fully prepared for the upcoming season and is currently in talks with multiple teams regarding his 2024 destination,” NFL insider Adam Schefter shared on X on June 18. “He aims to finalize his new team before the start of training camp.”
Pro Football Focus projects Williams to sign a three-year contract valued at $22.5 million ($7.5 million per year) this offseason, with multiple teams showing interest in the seasoned center, according to his agent.
“On the record, Connor has made a remarkable recovery, nothing short of miraculous,” stated Williams’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, in June. “He’s progressing well for the season opener, and there is considerable interest from numerous teams.”
However, there are compelling reasons, as Gabriel pointed out, why the Bears are unlikely to be among them.
Reasons Connor Williams Probably Won’t Join the Chicago Bears
In June, Sports Illustrated identified the Bears as a potential destination for Connor Williams due to their uncertainty at the center position. With rookie quarterback Caleb Williams now at the helm, securing effective protection is crucial.
Chicago acquired veteran center Coleman Shelton and traded for former Buffalo Bills center/guard Ryan Bates this offseason. Both are vying for the starting center role during training camp.
While Williams is undoubtedly more experienced than both Shelton and Bates—having played 83 games and started 77 over his six NFL seasons compared to Shelton and Bates’ combined 51 starts—the Bears’ general manager, Ryan Poles, may be reluctant to invest over $20 million in an additional player at this position with two contenders already on the roster.
Additionally, there are valid concerns about how Williams will perform post-injury. Despite his agent’s optimistic reports, his ability to handle aggressive defensive linemen remains uncertain.
The Bears also need to address their defensive line and may prioritize this area. With rookies set to report to training camp on July 16, any potential moves are likely to occur in the near future.
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