With free agency looming, roster turnover isn't far away. However, a significant portion of the 2020 roster is already in place. In the coming weeks, DallasCowboys.com will feature players who are currently under contract for next season, analyzing their past season and their future prospects.
Today, we continue the series with offensive lineman Connor Williams:
What's Been Good:
Williams had one of the best training camps and preseasons of any offensive player last year. Heading into the regular season, it was expected that he would indeed take that next step as a second-year player and build from a promising rookie year. For the most part, Williams was able to do that. The Cowboys felt last year he was their best option at left guard and when he was healthy, he started and held his own inside. His ability to play left tackle in college helps him at guard when he's on the move. Williams is one of the more athletic offensive linemen the Cowboys have had in recent years.
What's Been Bad:
More than anything, Williams hasn't been on the field consistently. Injuries have started to pile up, including a torn ACL injury that wiped out the final month of the season. The Cowboys have struggled to run the ball at times in the red zone and in short-yardage situations, but that can't fall completely on his shoulders. There is a belief that Williams needs to get stronger to play guard full-time and the Cowboys haven't thrown out the possibility of him moving to tackle at some point, perhaps as the swing tackle.
What's Next:
For now, Williams has to get 100 percent again from his knee injury. He has been involved in a thorough rehab and will probably be ready to practice when training camp starts in late July. Now, don't be surprised if the Cowboys limit his workload as he continues to get his full strength back. But the goal will be to have Williams ready for Week 1 of the regular season. However, where he plays is still a question. Currently, he's the best option at left guard but let's see what happens in free agency. The Cowboys also want to take a look at Connor McGovern, who was injured all last year. One way or another, Williams will factor into the mix, but it remains to be seen what his primary position will be.
