Mike Macdonald expressed support for Connor Williams' decision to retire, emphasizing the importance of respecting his privacy regarding personal reasons. He acknowledged the unforeseen nature of the situation but highlighted the opportunity for Olu Oluwatimi to step up, noting his hard work and readiness to take on the starting center role.

Connor Williams has retired from the Seahawks due to personal reasons, with coach Mike Macdonald stating that the decision is unrelated to the ACL injury he sustained last year. In his seventh NFL season, Williams signed a one-year contract in August and started every game this season. He had not participated in practice this week, and his departure opens the opportunity for Olu Oluwatimi to step in as the starting center. Macdonald expressed confidence in Oluwatimi's preparation and hard work during the offseason.

Olu Oluwatimi is set to replace Connor Williams as the starting center for the Seahawks following Williams' retirement. A fifth-round pick in 2023, Oluwatimi made one start last year and has appeared in four games this season. Coach Mike Macdonald highlighted Oluwatimi's hard work and preparation, noting that he had been the primary center during the offseason until Williams was signed. Macdonald expressed optimism about Oluwatimi's opportunity to showcase his skills.

Mike Macdonald confirmed Connor Williams' retirement, stating it was due to "personal reasons" and clarified that Williams' knee injury did not influence the decision.

Connor Williams has retired from the NFL at the age of 27 after a career that included starting every game for the Seahawks following a significant knee injury. He joined Seattle on a one-year contract in March and played in all nine games of the 2024 season. Williams, who previously played for the Dolphins and Cowboys, will be replaced in the starting lineup by Olu Oluwatimi. His retirement is attributed to personal reasons, with his knee injury not being a factor. Despite a strong performance in previous seasons, he struggled in his first year with Seattle, earning a lower PFF grade and committing multiple penalties.