Jess Haynie
Throughout the offseason for the Cowboys, starting Guard Connor Williams has been getting some looks at center. What does this mean for projected starter Tyler Biadasz and could a change be brewing at the position for 2021?
Williams saw reps at center during the spring practices and again during these first few days of training camp. But according to Mike McCarthy, Connor’s only being evaluated as a potential backup.
Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy on LG Connor Williams working at center: “I thought Connor had his best day yesterday in his center reps.” Williams to see reps today in two-minute offense. Flexibility would allow him to slide to center during a game if Tyler Biadasz exits.
Cowboys’ primary backup center to begin season may be a starter. Saw some of this in spring: LG Connor Williams is taking reps at center. He could slide over in event of a Tyler Biadasz exit. The top reserve guard (perhaps Connor McGovern) would then enter at LG. pic.twitter.com/ofJ9QMpsT1
The Cowboys have enjoyed security at guard and center the last few years through Joe Looney, the former veteran backup from 2016-2020. But Dallas elected not to re-sign the 30-year-old Looney this year and appear to be exploring some new options for offensive line emergencies.
Third-year guard Connor McGovern has been seen as a potential replacement for Looney as a versatile backup. But right now it appears Dallas may be more comfortable with Connor Williams moving over to center and McGovern stepping in as left guard if the need arose.
Dallas also now has 7th-round rookie Matt Farniok, whose versatility to handle in spot on the offensive line was part of what got him drafted. He takes the place of veteran Adam Redmond as a potential last resort for the roster or practice squad, and we saw Redmond play in 14 games during his three years with the Cowboys.
Whatever Plan B finally becomes, there’s no sign that Tyler Biadasz’ position is currently being threatened. He and Williams are still expected to return to their starting roles along with Zack Martin, Tyron Smith, and La’el Collins.
Last year we saw the Cowboys’ offensive line pushed beyond the breaking point of its depth and versatility. It makes sense for them to explore every scenario in preparation for 2021.
I really don’t think we gave Looney enough credit. He played really well when he was called upon. I think it might bite us not resigning him. I get seeing what options you have but he was here for what 4 years. One of the biggest things they say about O lines is continuity!
I still think C Williams is a natural tackle. He’s built like a tackle and his skill set is more conducive to that position. That said I think he has done an admirable job at guard and has improved incrementally since his rookie year.
Personally would like to cross train McGovern at center, so Williams wouldn’t have to change positions in the event of an injury to Tyler. But evidently the team sees Williams as a more viable back up center then McGovern.
Williams the backup center? One would think the O-line composition would be settled by now. Thought the other Conner is the backup center.
Agree with Lone, rarely do you see an O lineman get pancaked, but it happened to Williams. Not reassuring.
T LA EL COLLINS
G ZACH MARTIN
C CONNOR WILLIANS
G CONNOR McGOVERN
T TYRON SMITH
these are the best 5 OLmen
Yeah Lone…good post.
Cannot imagine being able to hold up at the center position. I think his strength, while improving would still result in him getting blown up alot.
The way Justin Hamilton put him on roller skates in that rep? Yeah, I think Biadasz is safe. Plus, Connor Williams is a UFA after this season unless they re-sign him soon. Why make it so they have two holes to fill when he gets a better offer elsewhere?
Honestly, I’d work Williams work more as an emergency backup OT than at C, let Farniok and McGovern fight it out as backup C and keep Joe Looney on speed dial.