Bears Urged to Accumulate Funds for Dolphins' Expected $68 Million Free Agent
The Chicago Bears are poised to tackle a significant concern at the center position as they head into the next offseason, with the offensive line being a critical focus for the team's roster enhancement. Matt Holder from Bleacher Report suggests that the Bears target Connor Williams of the Miami Dolphins, who is proving to be one of the league's hidden gems among offensive linemen.
Now in his sixth NFL season, Williams hasn't received All-Pro honors or Pro Bowl selections, yet his performance has solidified him as a standout in his role. Holder points out, «Acquiring Williams would not only bolster the Bears' offensive line but also bring in a young talent with potential for a bright future with the team, especially considering he's not turning 27 until May. Notably, Pro Football Focus reports that he didn't allow a sack during the season's first eight weeks, a stat that would be warmly welcomed in Chicago.»
Connor Williams is seeking a salary that reflects his value as one of the premier centers in the league. His absence from Miami's mandatory minicamp, a move that resulted in a $93,000 fine, was a statement of his intent to negotiate for an improved contract, though it didn't lead to a resolution at the time.
According to Omar Kelly of Sports Illustrated, Williams' representation, Drew Rosenhaus, shared on WSVN's Sports Xtra that the Dolphins were focusing on extending Christian Wilkins' contract, implying that Williams would test free agency after the 2023 season. Spotrac estimates Williams could land a five-year contract nearing $68 million, positioning him among the top three highest-paid centers in the NFL, on par with Frank Ragnow of the Detroit Lions, and just below the league's top-paid center, Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Williams' performance this season, graded by Pro Football Focus with high marks in both run blocking and pass protection, underscores his value. At 6-foot-5 and 315 pounds, he has demonstrated excellent reliability, especially in pass blocking, with minimal pressure allowed on the quarterback.
His adaptability would be an asset to the Bears, as he has experience playing left guard and briefly at right guard during his rookie year. Since transitioning to center in 2022, his performance has noticeably improved. Despite a groin injury limiting his playtime this season, Williams' track record shows durability and growth over his time with the Cowboys and Dolphins.
At 26 years old, Williams represents an opportunity for the Bears to secure a player who is approaching his peak performance years. Financially, the Bears are in a position to make a competitive offer, with Over the Cap reporting that they will have over $82 million in cap space next season, inclusive of the new contract for DE Montez Sweat.
| POLL | ||
7 NOVEMBRE | 25 ANSWERS Bears Urged to Accumulate Funds for Dolphins' Expected $68 Million Free Agent Is Connor Willims a good target for Ryan Poles in free agency? | ||
| Yes | 16 | 64 % |
| No | 9 | 36 % |
| List of polls | ||
