Why is Trent Williams holding out? Exploring details about the 49ers OT's contract
Trent Williams and the San Francisco 49ers are going through a difficult situation - one that has been underreported as the team is also dealing with Brandon Aiyuk's contract stalemate. Williams has been held out of training camp as he is looking for a contract adjustment with the franchise.
This is a far more important - and concerning - situation for the San Francisco 49ers than what's happening with Aiyuk. Although he's their best wide receiver, the team could find ways to move the offense with Deebo Samuel and Ricky Pearsall. Plus, George Kittle remains a very good tight end.
But to replace Williams' quality on the offensive line is impossible: first, because he's the best tackle in the NFL, and more importantly, Brock Purdy's protection is awful without the left tackle. The 49ers need to act quickly before they play the New York Jets without their superstar.
What's happening with Trent Williams and the San Francisco 49ers?
With the market for offensive linemen exploding in recent years, Williams, who turned 36 a month ago, wants to cash out one final time in his career. He's due to make $20 million, but his level deserves way more than what he's receiving.
While he doesn't have any guaranteed money remaining on his deal with the San Francisco 49ers, there's still around $70M remaining in the final three years. He isn't even asking for an extension or for a raise: he just wants his money to become guaranteed, giving him extra financial security.
There's no better argument for him than what this offensive line looks like when he's not playing. The 49ers have a strong roster, but their offensive line is awful if you take away the left tackle. If San Francisco go to Week 1 without the veteran, well, the Jets' pass rushers are going to have a field day.
It's true that the 49ers already have massive decisions to make, but this should be an easy one: they could give him guaranteed money, have him back and live with the certainty in Brock Purdy's protection. This is a player they just can't afford to live without.