**Eagles Seen as Possible Destination for Ex-Cowboys Starter Amid High Interest**
The Philadelphia Eagles are being considered a potential landing spot for top free agent center Connor Williams, formerly of the Dallas Cowboys. According to Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports, Williams could be a viable option for the Eagles following the retirement of their longtime center Jason Kelce, a six-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler.
DeArdo suggests that while Cam Jurgens, now in his third year, might be a suitable replacement for Kelce, the more reliable choice would be signing Williams, who has started 77 games in his NFL career. “This is a no-brainer. Jason Kelce, one of the greatest centers in NFL history, retired this offseason,” writes DeArdo. “And while Cam Jurgens might end up being a suitable replacement, the Eagles should still pursue Williams, a proven veteran who would at the very least provide competition for the Eagles’ starting center job.”
Heavy Interest in Connor Williams
Williams, 27, is attracting significant interest in the free agency market, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Schefter notes, “Former Cowboys and Dolphins free-agent center Connor Williams, who is coming off season-ending knee surgery, expects to be ready for the start of the season and is in discussions with multiple teams about where to play in 2024. He plans to pick his new team before training camp begins.”
Benefits of Signing Connor Williams
Williams began his career with the Cowboys in 2018 as the starting left guard and continued in that role until he signed with the Miami Dolphins in the 2022 offseason. In Miami, Williams transitioned to starting center, playing 26 games before an ACL tear ended his 2023 season.
Despite the Eagles already having an established left guard in Landon Dickerson, Williams’ versatility and experience at both guard and center positions could be valuable, especially in case of injuries. Last season, even with limited play due to injury, Williams had his best performance, earning an 86.5 offensive grade and a 90.5 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking second among all full-time players at his position.
Though the Eagles might face a bidding war, given the “multiple” teams interested in Williams, signing him could provide a solid replacement for Kelce. Jurgens, who started 11 games at guard last season but has no starts at center, posted average grades from Pro Football Focus, indicating that Williams might be a more dependable option.
Considering the Eagles’ need for established talent after a disappointing end to their 2023 season, signing Williams could help ensure a strong bounce-back season for both the team and quarterback Jalen Hurts in 2024.
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