Connor Williams’ departure could be a mistake Miami regrets amid o-line injuries

Trainers tend to the injured offensive lineman Connor Williams on the field during an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans on Monday, Dec. 12, 2023, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Doug Murray)AP

A long stint in free agency has resulted in a happy ending for Connor Williams and possible regret for the Miami Dolphins. Approaching his seventh NFL season, the Seattle Seahawks picked up the offensive lineman on a one-year deal worth up to $6 million with $3 million guaranteed.

Williams will be returning from an ACL tear sustained during a mid-December outing against the Tennessee Titans. With plenty of uncertainty regarding the center’s future and the need for an immediate solution, the Dolphins explored other options over the offseason.

Miami opted for Aaron Brewer, committing to the former Titans center long-term on a three-year, $21 million deal. Williams remained on the market for a while, but the Dolphins felt confident in their decision. But as the lineman relocates from one corner of the United States to another, the need for Williams grows in Miami.

During Wednesday’s joint practice with the Atlanta Falcons, Brewer went down with an injury. According to Dolphins reporters Barry Jackson and Travis Wingfield, the center’s right hand was being examined as he headed into the medical facility with trainers.

The injury comes amid a not-so-smooth transition to the Dolphins’ offense. It takes time for a quarterback and center to build chemistry, and given the number of ugly snaps at training camp, Brewer and Tua Tagovailoa need as much time as possible.

Meanwhile, Miami will rely on Liam Eichenberg, who stepped up to replace Williams in 2023. Eichenberg has been working as the Dolphins’ starting right guard, meaning the loss of a center would send shockwaves throughout the offensive line.

Hindsight is 20/20, which is a lesson Miami might have to learn the hard way if Brewer’s injury is serious.

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