**Seahawks Center Connor Williams Retires Mid-Season, Oluwatimi to Start**

In a surprising turn of events, Seattle Seahawks’ center Connor Williams is retiring just nine games into his debut season with the team. This significant change was confirmed by Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald on Friday during his post-practice conference.

Williams, who was absent from the team's practice this week due to personal reasons, has also been ruled out in the latest injury report. Coach Macdonald expressed respect for Williams' decision to retire and emphasized the team’s support for his choices. Importantly, Macdonald clarified that Williams' retirement is unrelated to the ACL injury that previously ended his 2023 season.

“We respect Connor’s decision and wish him the best,” Macdonald stated. “We need to move forward and adjust accordingly.” Consequently, the Seahawks will be preparing for their upcoming game against the 49ers without Williams.

Olu Oluwatimi, who was drafted in the fifth round last season and had shown potential during training camp, will step in as the starting center. "Olu will play center for us right now, and we're excited for his opportunity," Macdonald said. “This is an unforeseen circumstance, but the silver lining is we get to see Olu in action.”

Williams’s unexpected retirement follows another significant roster change earlier this week when the Seahawks waived starting linebacker Tyrel Dodson. However, Macdonald assured that these changes have not disturbed the team’s focus. “Our guys are doing a phenomenal job concentrating on what they can control, like maintaining a positive attitude and having a great week of practice,” he added.

Williams joined the Seahawks as a free agent during the summer, bringing with him experience from his previous roles with the Cowboys and Dolphins. Despite a robust recovery from his ACL injury, his sudden departure leaves a significant gap. Nonetheless, Macdonald remains confident in the team’s resilience and readiness, spotlighting Oluwatimi’s preparedness for the role.

As the Seahawks gear up for their Week 11 matchup against the 49ers, the shifting dynamics within the team will undoubtedly come into play. Yet, the team’s dedication to staying focused and prepared shines through as they navigate these transitions.