Seahawks center Connor Williams abruptly retired earlier this week, Seattle coach Mike Macdonald told reporters on Friday.
Williams retired due to personal reasons, and Macdonald said he doesn’t expect the 27-year-old to change his mind.
“I don’t believe so,” Macdonald said. “We’re honoring his wishes, and we’ll keep all those reasons and conversations private for obvious reasons and wish him the best.”
Macdonald said Williams’ decision-making process was unrelated to the season-ending ACL injury he sustained as a member of the Miami Dolphins in 2023.
“It’s been a process throughout the week,” Macdonald said.
Macdonald said that second-year pro Olu Oluwatimi will start at center against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.
“He’s a guy that’s been knocking on the door for a while,” Macdonald said. “Obviously it’s an unforeseen circumstance that you’ve kind of got to take on head-on, but the silver lining in the whole thing is we get to see Olu go do his thing. This guy has been working really hard.”
Williams started all nine of Seattle’s games this season. Overall, he started 86 of 92 games played over seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys (2018-21), Dolphins (2022-23) and Seahawks.
Also, star receiver DK Metcalf (knee) will be back after a two-game absence. Metcalf was not given an injury status on Friday.
The two-time Pro Bowl pick has 35 receptions for 568 yards and three touchdowns in seven games this season.
“Excited to have DK back. He’s ready to go,” Macdonald said. “Of course we’re fired up to see DK out there. He’s practicing great. Excited to see him go do his thing.”
Right tackle Abraham Lucas (knee) will be available to play for the first time this season. He underwent surgery in January.
Seattle also ruled out tight ends Noah Fant (groin) and Brady Russell (foot).