Seahawks Center Connor Williams Retires at 27

Connor Williams, center for the Seattle Seahawks, has unexpectedly announced his retirement from the NFL at age 27, citing personal reasons. This decision comes just 11 months after he suffered a severe knee injury while playing for the Miami Dolphins, and he had started all nine games for Seattle this season after signing a one-year contract in August. Coach Mike Macdonald indicated he respects Williams' decision and believes he will not return to the league. The Seahawks are currently struggling, having lost five of their last six games, and will now start Olu Oluwatimi in place of Williams. Williams had a notable career, having previously played for the Dallas Cowboys, and will benefit from the NFL retirement plan after being vested for three seasons. The timing of his retirement adds pressure on the Seahawks as they prepare for a critical game against the San Francisco 49ers.