After tearing his ACL less than nine months ago, Connor Williams is aiming to make a comeback for the Seattle Seahawks’ regular season opener on Sept. 8. Coach Mike Macdonald expressed optimism about Williams’ chances of playing in Week 1, stating, “That’s the goal right now.” Williams recently made his return to the practice field, albeit in a limited capacity, and is working with the sports performance staff to gradually build up his strength for full participation.
Williams, who previously played guard for the Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins, signed a one-year deal with the Seahawks worth up to $6 million, with $3 million guaranteed. His move to Seattle marks a fresh start after a promising season was cut short by a second ACL tear. Despite the setbacks, Williams is determined to regain his form and contribute to his new team.
Following ACL surgery performed by Dr. Daniel Cooper, Williams has been diligently following his rehabilitation plan. He mentioned feeling nearly at full strength and expressed eagerness to get back on the field. The Seahawks are taking a cautious approach to ensure that Williams is fully prepared before returning to game action. His recovery progress will be closely monitored, with the team prioritizing his long-term health and performance.
In the absence of Williams, Olu Oluwatimi has been taking first-team reps at center during practice. Both Oluwatimi and Nick Harris were vying for the starting role, but Williams’ arrival has shifted the dynamics of the competition. The Seahawks made roster moves to accommodate Williams, indicating their belief in his abilities and potential impact on the team. With valuable preseason playing time approaching, Williams will have the opportunity to demonstrate his readiness to contribute at a high level.
As the Seahawks prepare for joint practices with the Tennessee Titans and their upcoming preseason game, Williams’ status for the trip remains uncertain. Coach Macdonald emphasized his excitement to see Williams back on the field and emphasized the importance of his gradual reintroduction to practice. While the road to recovery may present challenges, Williams’ determination and work ethic are driving forces in his journey back to game action.
Overall, Williams’ comeback story serves as a testament to the resilience and perseverance required to overcome significant injuries in professional sports. With a supportive team environment and dedicated medical staff, he is on track to achieve his goal of returning to the field for the Seahawks’ season opener. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for Williams as he continues to progress towards full participation and aims to make a meaningful impact in the upcoming season.