Seattle Seahawks Sign Connor Williams as Starting Center for Upcoming Season
ICARO Media Group
This marks the fifth consecutive year that the Seahawks have a new starting center, opting to bring in an outside free agent for the third year in a row.
Williams, a former starter for the Miami Dolphins, had been a free agent since the end of the 2023 season due to an ACL tear. However, his remarkable recovery has positioned him to potentially start in Week 1, a development that seemed unlikely given the nature and timing of his injury.
Details of Williams' contract have now emerged, with reports suggesting it is worth up to $6 million. The base value of the contract is set at $4 million, with additional incentives available. One million dollars will be awarded if Williams plays 75% or more of the Seahawks' offensive snaps, and another one million will be given if he meets that threshold and the team makes the playoffs.
The contract also includes per-game roster bonuses amounting to $510,000. These bonuses are tied to both team performance and Williams' playing time. If Seattle improves its ranking in specific offensive categories or if Williams plays at least 46% of the snaps, he will earn an additional $30,000 for every game he is active.
With the signing of Williams, the Seahawks now have their sights set on building a strong offensive line to protect quarterback Russell Wilson and create opportunities for the team's dynamic playmakers. The offensive line has been a key area of focus for the Seahawks in recent years, and the addition of Williams brings experience and versatility to the team.
As it stands, the Seahawks have approximately $8.3 million of available cap space, taking into account the "Top 51 Cutoff rule" which only counts the highest cap hits on the 90-man roster against the cap prior to cutdown day. This gives the Seahawks some flexibility to make further additions or adjustments to the team before the start of the season.
The Seahawks and their fans will now eagerly await the start of the season as Connor Williams takes on the responsibility of anchoring the offensive line. With his recovery and the potential for hefty incentives, Williams is determined to showcase his skills and contribute significantly to the Seahawks' success in the 2024 season.
Overall, the signing of Connor Williams demonstrates the Seahawks' commitment to strengthening their offensive line and building a competitive roster for the season ahead.