**Seahawks Center Connor Williams Announces Retirement from NFL**

Seattle Seahawks center Connor Williams has decided to retire from the NFL, coach Mike Macdonald revealed on Friday. Williams, who had missed practice earlier in the week due to personal reasons, has made the decision to step away from professional football.

"Connor decided to retire earlier this week for personal reasons, and we respect that," Macdonald said in a virtual press conference shared by Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times. "We wish him nothing but the best and will move forward from here."

Macdonald also indicated that he does not anticipate Williams reconsidering his decision. "I don't believe he will change his mind. We will honor his wishes and keep all related discussions confidential for obvious reasons," he added.

The 27-year-old Williams had signed with the Seahawks on August 6 but had faced significant challenges due to a knee injury, including a torn ACL, which he suffered in a December 11 game while playing for the Miami Dolphins. Although there were speculations about his potential retirement during the offseason, Williams had worked hard to make a comeback before ultimately deciding to retire.

Williams initially entered the NFL as a second-round draft pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2018. Over his career, he played in 92 games, starting 86 of them. After transitioning from guard to center following his move to the Dolphins in 2022, he became a reliable starter in that position.

With Williams' departure, second-year player Olu Oluwatimi is set to take over as the starting center for the Seahawks.