For Seattle Seahawks fans, the mention of Max Unger brings back a mixture of nostalgia and anxiety. Unger, a former Pro Bowl center for the Seahawks, was traded to the New Orleans Saints in 2015 as part of the deal that brought tight end Jimmy Graham to Seattle. The move, though it had its rationale at the time, left a void on the Seahawks’ offensive line that took years to fill. The lingering effects of that decision have left fans with a kind of “Max Unger PTSD,” a fear of losing a key piece of the offensive line that could disrupt the stability and efficiency of the team’s offense.
Now, as the Seahawks face a decision on re-signing Connor Williams, the starting center who has become a critical part of their offensive line, there are real concerns that letting him walk could lead to a repeat of the struggles that followed Unger’s departure. Williams has established himself as a steady presence in the middle of Seattle’s line, and letting him leave could bring back memories of the turbulence that followed the loss of Unger—a time characterized by inconsistency at the center position and challenges in protecting the quarterback.
In the NFL, the center is often an unsung hero on the offensive line. While tackles and guards get much of the attention, the center is responsible for snapping the ball, making line calls, and ensuring the protection schemes are properly set before each play. This position requires both physical strength and a high football IQ, as the center needs to be aware of defensive alignments and adjustments.
Connor Williams, who originally entered the NFL as a guard with the Dallas Cowboys before transitioning to center, has become a key part of the Seahawks’ line. He brings versatility, experience, and a physical style that fits well with the Seahawks’ commitment to establishing a strong running game and protecting their quarterback, Geno Smith. Williams’ presence has helped solidify the interior of Seattle’s line, making him a valuable asset in both the run and pass-blocking game.
The trade that sent Max Unger to the Saints in 2015 was a turning point for the Seahawks’ offensive line. While the acquisition of Jimmy Graham was intended to add a dynamic element to the Seahawks’ offense, the loss of Unger left the line without its anchor. The center position became a revolving door, with the team struggling to find consistency in both run-blocking and pass protection.
The aftermath of the Unger trade saw Seattle’s offensive line ranking near the bottom of the league in terms of quarterback hits and sacks allowed. Quarterbacks like Russell Wilson often found themselves under constant pressure, forcing them to scramble out of the pocket to make plays. This lack of stability on the offensive line hindered the team’s offensive potential and ultimately impacted their ability to make deep playoff runs.
For Seahawks fans who remember those struggles, the idea of losing a player like Connor Williams conjures fears of a similar setback. Rebuilding chemistry and consistency on the offensive line takes time, and the disruption that comes with losing a starting center can have a ripple effect on the entire offense.
Given Williams’ importance to the team’s offensive line, the Seahawks would be wise to prioritize re-signing him. While the front office must always consider the salary cap and long-term roster building, investing in a solid offensive line is crucial for sustained success in the NFL. For Seattle, who has found a resurgence with Geno Smith at quarterback and a talented receiving corps featuring DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, maintaining a strong offensive line is key to maximizing their potential.
Here are some of the key reasons why re-signing Williams should be a priority for Seattle:
Continuity and Stability: The center position requires a deep understanding of the offense, chemistry with the quarterback, and the ability to adjust to different defensive looks. Williams has built that rapport with Geno Smith, and replacing him could disrupt the timing and effectiveness of the offense.
Improved Run Game: The Seahawks have a talented stable of running backs, including Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet. A strong center like Williams is essential for creating the push and gaps needed in the running game. His ability to anchor the middle of the line and execute reach blocks helps the team maintain a balanced offensive attack.
Pass Protection: While Seattle’s offensive line has improved overall, the NFC West remains a tough division with formidable pass rushers like Nick Bosa of the 49ers and Aaron Donald of the Rams. Williams’ presence at center is a key part of the team’s ability to protect Geno Smith, giving him time to find open receivers downfield.
Avoiding Past Mistakes: As mentioned, the memories of the struggles following Max Unger’s departure are still fresh in the minds of many fans. While letting Williams leave might not result in the exact same issues, it would introduce unnecessary risk to a unit that has found some stability. Retaining Williams would show a commitment to building a consistent offensive line for the long term.
Of course, re-signing a player of Williams’ caliber will come with a cost, and the Seahawks’ front office must weigh that against other roster needs. The team will need to balance their salary cap considerations while retaining key talent, which includes upcoming decisions about players on both offense and defense.
However, the potential cost of losing Williams and having to find a capable replacement could outweigh the financial savings. The Seahawks might be able to draft or sign a new center, but the risk of losing the continuity and chemistry that Williams has developed with the line is significant. It would also take time for a new player to adapt to Seattle’s offensive scheme and develop trust with the quarterback.
The decision to re-sign Connor Williams isn’t just about avoiding the painful memories of the Max Unger era—it’s about maintaining the progress that the Seahawks have made in solidifying their offensive line and providing stability for their offense. Williams’ importance as a center goes beyond his individual abilities; he is a crucial part of an offensive unit that the team has worked hard to build.
For Seahawks fans, the hope is that the organization will learn from past mistakes and recognize the value of keeping a key piece like Williams in the fold. While every offseason decision comes with tough choices, ensuring that the offensive line remains strong should be a priority for a team looking to compete in a tough NFC West and make a run in the playoffs. The last thing Seattle needs is to revisit the instability that followed the departure of Max Unger—something that no Seahawks fan wants to experience again.