When former Texas Longhorns and All-American Connor Williams was selected by the Dallas Cowboys, he was expected to compete for the starting left guard spot. Since joining his hometown team, Williams has played in 24 games starting 21. Last season the injury bug bit him again and he missed five games. After coming off the torn ACL, he is expected to be right in the mix once again.
From the Athletic’s Dane Brugler on Williams coming out of Texas:
A three-year starter at Texas, Williams earned the starting left tackle job as a true freshman and had an All-American season as a sophomore, putting himself on the NFL radar. However, he appeared to take a step back in 2017 followed by a knee injury that sidelined him for most of his junior season. Williams learned under three different offensive coordinators in three seasons in Austin, which helped diversify his skill-set. He is technique-focused and moves with above average athleticism, flashing the competitive finish and instincts required for the next level. While the intent is there, he isn’t an overpowering player and contact balance can be an issue at times. Overall, Williams will be a guard/center on some draft boards due to his lack of length, but his sophomore tape showed a capable NFL starter at tackle and NFL teams will need to trust the 2016 tape to draft him in round one.
Ben Grimaldi of the Cowboys Wire recently talked about his outlook for the left guard battle in Dallas. Another Connor, McGovern who missed all of last season is also in the mix to start. Just don’t count out Williams who has the experience at the position in the NFL.
If he’s healthy and recovered from his injury, Williams is in the best position to be the starter at LG, but he’ll have to earn a starting role. If he can’t beat out the competition, he’ll be one of the best back-up offensive linemen in the league.
The 23-year old kid from Coppell, Texas has already had a roller coaster ride to begin his career. Williams may always be linked to Goedert and Cowboys fans are hoping he’ll take the next step to having the impact the TE in Philadelphia’s had.
The jury’s still out on Williams.
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