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The Pittsburgh Steelers, having released center Mason Cole due to struggles in the 2023 season, now find themselves without a trusted option at the position on their roster. With the 2024 NFL Draft approaching, they seem poised to address the center position early on. However, in the event that the draft doesn't unfold as planned for the Steelers, they have a contingency plan in place.
Mark Kaboly, a Steelers insider for The Athletic, disclosed on 93.7 The Fan that Pittsburgh may have an alternative strategy for acquiring a center. Instead of relying solely on the draft, they are considering bringing in free agent center Connor Williams. However, not anytime soon.
"I think right now would do no good because he's not gonna be able to practice. Let's see what maybe [Nate] Herbig can do. I don't think they'll move James Daniels there, he was too much of a solid guy at right guard and he's in a contract year. I wouldn't want to move right there," Kaboly said. "Maybe throw Spencer Anderson in there and those guys or whoever, if they bring somebody else in, a mid-to-low level guy and see if they can succeed. If it's an obvious no, then you have that backup plan to maybe bring in Connor Williams."
In the event that the draft doesn't unfold favorably for the Steelers, Williams emerges as a potential fallback option for the team's center position. Despite his current status as a worst-case scenario or backup plan, Williams offers valuable experience and could provide immediate value if needed. He was having another great season with the Miami Dolphins before he got hurt.
Our Steelers insider @MarkKaboly thinks the Steelers could sign free agent center Connor Williams later in the offseason. Coming off a torn ACL. Was a stud in Miami last year. pic.twitter.com/4IqcPhVj2h
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) April 19, 2024
Following an ACL injury that has impacted his stock in free agency, Williams and his agent have opted to prioritize his recovery before assessing his market value. This approach suggests that he could become available post-draft, provided his health is satisfactory. In such a scenario, the Steelers could pursue Williams as a viable solution.
With six seasons of NFL experience under his belt, Williams boasts an impressive resume, having spent four seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and two seasons with the Dolphins.
Throughout his career, he has started in 77 games, primarily as a left guard for the Cowboys and transitioning to the center position with the Dolphins in 2022. Although his 2023 season was cut short due to injury, Williams' focus on rehabilitation presents an opportunity for him to potentially contribute to the Steelers' roster, adding depth and expertise to their offensive line. If they pursued him.
Steelers Likely To Draft A Center In 2024
It seems increasingly probable that the Steelers will secure their starting center for the 2024 season through the draft. Numerous prospects have been linked to the Steelers, with one name gaining particular traction: Duke's Graham Barton. Barton's versatility along the offensive line makes him an intriguing option for Pittsburgh.
Another standout prospect drawing attention is Zach Frazier, whose impressive performance at West Virginia has earned him widespread acclaim. Frazier's rising stock may present a challenge for the Steelers, potentially necessitating a trade-up scenario in the second round to secure him.
Looking beyond the draft, Kaboly suggests that the Steelers may consider Williams as an option. Given the importance of depth at the center position, acquiring Williams could offer the Steelers added stability and alleviate pressure on their rookie draft pick. The team's early moves in the draft will undoubtedly be closely watched, as they navigate their strategy to address critical needs and solidify their roster for the upcoming season.
More must-reads:
- NFC East check-in: Most, least improved position groups post-draft
- Former 49ers quarterback makes feelings on Brock Purdy clear
- The 'AP First-Team All-Pro tight ends' quiz
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